[STATEMENT] IMA Canada Statement on Amazon's Decision to Shut Down Quebec Plants
We unequivocally condemn Amazon's recent decision to close its Quebec plants, a move that is a direct attack on the rights of workers to organize and unionize. The closure of all plants in Quebec not only jeopardizes the livelihoods of countless employees but also sends a chilling message to workers everywhere: that standing together for fair treatment and better working conditions can lead to retaliation by Amazon bosses.
This decision disproportionately impacts migrant workers in amazon, who often rely on their jobs to maintain their work permits and legal status in Canada. For many of these workers, losing their jobs means facing an uncertain future, as finding new employment can be a daunting task. Their precarious status is further exacerbated by the fear of job loss, making it even more challenging for them to advocate for their rights.
The right to organize is a fundamental aspect of labor rights, recognized globally as essential for ensuring fair treatment and respect in the workplace. By shutting down the Quebec facilities, Amazon is not just eliminating jobs; it is undermining the very workers rights and solidarity that empower Amazon workers. This action is a blatant violation of workers' rights and reflects a troubling trend of corporate retaliation against those who seek to improve their working conditions.
We support the campaign boycotting Amazon, coming out of Quebec, with the following demands.
Current demands:
Keep the warehouses open! Keep the workers employed! Respect union rights!
Not another penny of public money for Amazon!
If Amazon persists and kicks out its employees, the demands are:
Amazon Out! Suspend all Amazon activities in Quebec and Canada! Expropriation of lands, buildings and other assets of Amazon!
Reimbursement of all public subsidies received by Amazon!
1 year worth of salary and insurance for all the workers!
Full support and free retraining for laid-off workers.
We stand in solidarity with the affected workers and call on Amazon to reconsider this decision. We urge all workers, communities to support the welfare of Amazon workers, especially those most vulnerable, and uphold their right to organize without fear of retribution from their Employer.
Justice for Amazon Workers!
It is a Right to Organize!
Long Live International Solidarity!
