May 20

Amazon Workers’ Struggle: Insights from the Materialism Conference

Photo taken by Menna Hijab

Yesterday marked a historic moment in the ongoing struggle for workers’ rights, equality, and justice at Amazon warehouses in Montreal. Over one hundred attendees flooded the auditorium, their faces filled with hope, passion, and conviction, for the historical materialism conference in Montreal. It was a testament to the enduring spirit of our shared cause and the collective power we possess when we unite.

Notable amongst the distinguished speakers was Alexandre Lavoitte president of Fédération Commerce of CSN spoke of the historic union campaign inside Amazon’s warehouses in the Montreal area, and the challenges faced by workers from Amazon anti union tactics. He spoke of the deep commitment CSN had towards confronting these multi national corporations and to organize workers as long as it takes

Further enriching the event was Chris Smalls, Who is president of the newly minted Amazon Labor Union.

Chris a beacon of hope for the oppressed worker and the organizer behind the first unionized Amazon warehouse in North America. His words resonated with the sound of struggle and triumph, reminding us all that victories are indeed possible when we stand strong and united in our purpose. His journey is a testament to the power of collective action and a striking reminder of the pivotal role of the rank-and-file play in the fight for better working conditions, fair pay, and respect.

Also at the podium was our cherished comrade Mostafa Henaway. Mostafa, as many of you know, is not only a founding member of the Amazon Workers Committee in Montreal at Immigrant Workers Centre (IWC-TCI), but he is also conducting extensive PhD research on Amazon organizing. Mostafa’s work is crucial in shedding light on the organizing practices within Amazon, offering key insights that will fuel our strategies moving forward.

Let us carry the energy from this conference with us every day as we continue to stand against exploitation and fight for the rights and recognition that we so rightfully deserve.

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