Summary
The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, under the leadership of Sean O’Brien, has achieved a series of significant victories in organizing efforts across the United States, including securing record contracts with a variety of employers. Following a notable triumph at UPS, where Teamsters Local 89 successfully represents workers at Louisville’s major employment hub, the union has now set its sights on extending its influence into Northern Kentucky. This effort includes the aim to unionize employees at notable logistics companies such as DHL and Amazon. Avral Thompson, President of Teamsters Local 89, articulated the union’s dedication to this initiative, expressing, “The International Brotherhood of Teamsters asked us to get involved… so that’s what we did,” emphasizing the potential for substantial changes in the employment landscape across the country which they wish to foster. Presently, Teamsters Local 89 represents approximately 20,000 workers from various regions, notably expanding from 14,000 over the last couple of years. In the wake of the anticipated 2023 contract negotiations with UPS, there has been an increase in interest from employees of other companies wishing to unionize. President Thompson noted that every day presents new leads from companies whose employees are eager to organize, reflecting a burgeoning movement within the logistics sector. In early efforts, Teamsters Local 89 made strides in successfully unionizing workers at DHL, which has operated non-union since it established its presence in Northern Kentucky in 2009. The union gained recognition for ramp, tug, and sort workers after an electoral victory, with DHL’s management responding positively to the union’s efforts. A representative from DHL conveyed their commitment to a respectful and collaborative relationship with their workforce and stated, “We believe in treating our employees with respect; we recognize their right to unionize in a lawful way.” Jay Dennis, an assistant to the president of Teamsters Local 89, indicated that the next steps for the newly unionized workforce involve training shop stewards to navigate their rights and responsibilities effectively. In contrast, organizing efforts at Amazon present a more challenging landscape. Despite their historical resistance to unionization, worker interest has been ignited by recent successes at other locations. Bryan Trafford, an organizer at Teamsters Local 89, pointed out that pressure for improved wages and working conditions is palpable among Amazon employees as they demand a $3 per hour pay increase in the forthcoming wage review. Workers express a desire for a voice in their workplace dynamics and believe that forming a union could significantly enhance their working environment. Despite Amazon’s positioning and alleged anti-union practices, as noted by Trafford, there is an optimistic outlook that Teamsters Local 89 will successfully mobilize employees to pursue union representation. Commenting on recent campaigns, Trafford affirmed the strength of Local 89’s commitment to labor rights, stating, “We are willing to have their backs if they are willing to stick their necks out.” In conclusion, with a triumphant foothold at DHL, a longstanding presence at UPS, and an ongoing campaign at Amazon, Teamsters Local 89 is poised to influence the logistics industry significantly in Northern Kentucky and beyond. Avral Thompson encapsulated this sentiment, remarking, “These companies, like Amazon in particular, are well below the standards that have been set by UPS and the Teamsters contract at UPS. Eventually, our strategies will impact the entire package delivery system, including FedEx.” For further inquiries, business reporter Olivia Evans may be contacted at [email protected] or via social media.
Original Source: www.courier-journal.com
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