Amazon workers in North Carolina delivered a resounding rejection of unionization efforts last week, underscoring persistent challenges for labor organizers in Southern states. Nearly 75% of employees at the Garner fulfillment center voted against joining grassroots union CAUSE – a stinging defeat following months of campaigning.
The National Labor Relations Board confirmed 2,447 workers opposed union representation versus 829 supporters. Voting occurred as Amazon faces increased scrutiny following union victories at Staten Island warehouses and a Whole Foods location in Pennsylvania.
We knew the odds were stacked against us, said CAUSE co-founder Rev. Ryan Brown. Southern workers often lack historical labor education – Amazon weaponizes that knowledge gap.
Key obstacles highlighted in the failed effort:
- Regional anti-union sentiment in right-to-work states
- Corporate campaigns emphasizing direct worker benefits
- High employee turnover complicating organizing efforts
Amazon spokesperson Eileen Hards praised the result: Our team prefers direct collaboration without third parties. The company continues battling unionization attempts in Alabama and New York while contesting prior labor board rulings.
This defeat follows Amazon's strategic shift to satellite neutrality agreements with established unions – a tactic absent in North Carolina. Labor experts note Southern organizing requires multi-year education efforts, contrasting with Northern urban successes.
