The Amazon Labor Union (ALU), which made history as the first group of company workers to organize at a U.S. warehouse, announced on Tuesday its intention to affiliate with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters.
Established in 2021 as a grassroots organization comprising current and former Amazon workers, the ALU gained national prominence by securing a landmark union election victory in Staten Island, New York, at the JFK8 facility.
Initially operating independently, the ALU encountered challenges in negotiating a contract with Amazon, leading to tensions between leader Chris Smalls and some ALU members. These internal rifts were exacerbated when a group of former members filed a lawsuit against the union, alleging violations of the ALU’s constitution and seeking a court order to compel an election for union officers.
By aligning with the Teamsters, one of the largest labor unions in the United States, the ALU aims to bolster its bargaining power in negotiations with Amazon. The Teamsters, founded in 1903, have long been committed to organizing Amazon warehouse and delivery workers and established an Amazon division in 2021 to support and finance unionization efforts within the company.
The Teamsters’ board unanimously approved the affiliation agreement, although its formal ratification awaits a vote by members of both the ALU and the Teamsters. Chris Smalls confirmed the tentative nature of the agreement, noting that ratification would be subject to membership approval.
However, the decision has prompted criticism from the ALU Democratic Reform Caucus, the group that previously sued the ALU. Attorney Arthur Schwartz expressed scepticism about the ALU’s ability to conduct a membership vote on the Teamsters affiliation, citing uncertainties regarding the union’s membership list.
In a separate development, ALU members recently voted to hold an election for new union officers in March. Smalls has indicated his decision not to seek reelection as ALU president. The election is slated for July and will be conducted in person outside the JFK8 facility.
Both the Teamsters and Amazon declined to offer further comment on the matter at this time.
