DFW (WBAP/KLIF News) – As the coronavirus outbreak continues nationwide, some Instacart and Amazon warehouse workers across the country are striking to demand better safeguards while on the job.
The one-day strike is in response to the growing outrage among low-wage workers who are serving the needs of residents who can stay safe while working from home and ordering needed supplies, the Associated Press reports.
The move comes as both companies are hiring hundreds of thousands of new workers to keep up with a dramatic surge in demand.
Particularly struck by these words. Our @MaketheRoadNY and @nychange members are on the frontlines of the #AmazonStrike
Without thorough cleaning & PPE, workers and customers are at risk. pic.twitter.com/mXGBicq5fS
— Angeles Solis 🦋 (@AngeMariaSolis) March 30, 2020
Whole Worker, a workers group from Whole Foods employees, is calling for a nationwide “sick out” on Tuesday.
The group said Whole Foods employees are requesting:
– Hazard pay of double the current hourly wage for workers who show up during the coronavirus outbreak.
– Paid leave for all workers who stay home or self-quarantine.
– Free coronavirus testing for all employees.
In a statement, Whole Foods said it’s monitoring the COVID-19 outbreak very carefully.
“We believe our role serving customers and the community during this time is a critical one. We care about our team members, customers and products, and we’re evaluating the coronavirus situation in real time.”
Copyright 2020. WBAP/KLIF News. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.