Disgruntled employees at Amazon's headquarters in Seattle are preparing for a large walkout in response to recent layoffs and the company's controversial return-to-office policy.
According to memos by the Washington Post, unsatisfied employees plan to take legal action due to recent layoffs and the contentious return-to-office requirement.
Organizers have sent out messages via Slack and email, urging their colleagues to join the walkout on May 31, following the annual shareholder meeting.
"Morale feels like it's at an all-time low," said an Amazon worker in Los Angeles who intends to join but chose to remain anonymous to protect their employment.
The employees are frustrated with the lack of transparency and communication from leadership, which has created uncertainty and low morale among the workforce. The walkout is part of a massive wave of discontent among tech workers in Silicon Valley due to hiring freezes and layoffs amid a potential recession.
During the pandemic, Amazon admitted to overhiring, leading to a significant reduction in the workforce. This decision has sparked outrage among employees who blame top executives for poor investments and a lack of transparency regarding the company's mission.
The walkout, organized by employee activists, aims to draw attention to layoffs, the return-to-office policy, and Amazon's perceived inaction on climate change. Organizers hope to gather at least 1,000 participants in Seattle.
Employees feel that company leaders are making decisions without considering input from workers, leading to a sense of frustration and a desire to be heard. The walkout also reflects employee dissatisfaction with recent cost-cutting measures, including layoffs and the termination of projects and divisions, which contradicts Amazon's aspiration to be known as "Earth's Best Employer."
The demonstration, led by a coalition of employee groups such as Amazon Employees for Climate Justice, aims to push the company to address its impact on climate change. Despite strong financial results, employees believe that Amazon is not fulfilling its promises and accuse it of "greenwashing."
Amazon has expressed its respect for employees' rights to present their opinions, but the upcoming walkout signifies a critical juncture in employee relations. Balancing business objectives with employee concerns will be crucial for Amazon to maintain its position as a global industry leader.
— Kritika Singhal
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