Amazon Terminates Alabama Warehouse Worker Leading Union Drive
Jennifer Bates, a former Amazon employee who played a pivotal role in the unionization efforts at the company’s Bessemer, Alabama warehouse, has revealed that she has been fired by Amazon. Bates gained prominence as she testified before lawmakers about the challenging working conditions at Amazon. The Retail, Wholesale, and Department Store Union (RWDSU), which led the unsuccessful unionization campaign in Bessemer, stated that Bates was terminated by Amazon after returning from medical leave due to job-related injuries.
In a statement, Bates expressed her disbelief at the company’s decision, highlighting her dedication to the cause of organizing Amazon workers. She made it clear that her dismissal would not discourage workers from continuing their efforts to organize for better working conditions. Amazon responded by stating that Bates has the opportunity to appeal the decision and explained that she failed to show up for work and did not provide documentation to excuse her absences.
The firing of Bates reignites tensions between Amazon and workers who have sought to organize, particularly amid concerns about the company’s response to the pandemic and issues of racial inequality. Last year, Amazon workers at a New York warehouse voted to form the company’s first US union, but Amazon has refused to recognize the union or engage in negotiations. Other attempts to unionize Amazon facilities, including one near the New York warehouse, have also failed.
The closely-watched union election at the Bessemer facility resulted in inconclusive results due to numerous challenged ballots. The National Labor Relations Board is currently reviewing the union’s allegations of illegal activity by Amazon during the campaign, while Amazon has raised its own objections to the conduct of the RWDSU.
Stuart Appelbaum, President of the RWDSU, criticized Amazon for firing a prominent pro-union leader over a paperwork issue. He accused the company of attempting to extinguish support for the union by terminating its leaders. Appelbaum pledged to continue holding Amazon accountable and ensuring that the rights of workers in Bessemer are protected under the law.
