C.A.U.S.E.: A Movement for Justice in the Heart of North Carolina
In January 2022, a bold worker-led movement emerged from the grueling conditions of Amazon’s RDU1 warehouse in Garner, North Carolina. Carolina Amazonians United for Solidarity and Empowerment (C.A.U.S.E.) was born out of frustration, solidarity, and a collective desire for change. This coalition of current and former Amazon employees set out to challenge one of the world’s wealthiest corporations, demanding fair wages, humane working conditions, and dignity for its workforce.
Amazon’s meteoric rise has been fueled by the tireless efforts of its associates—workers who endure long hours at hazardous speeds with minimal breaks and inadequate resources to address their physical and mental health needs. At RDU1, stories of fainting on the job, injuries caused by relentless work paces, and even miscarriages due to extreme exertion paint a dire picture of life inside the warehouse walls6. Despite these challenges, Amazon associates are paid between $18 and $24 per hour—wages that often fall short of covering basic living expenses in today’s economy13.
C.A.U.S.E. has demanded starting wages of $30 per hour, extended breaks, and better vacation policies1. Their vision extends beyond individual paychecks; they seek to empower workers through engagement, education, and collective action. The movement represents hope for a fairer future—not just for Amazon workers but for entire communities that rely on their labor.
In February 2025, C.A.U.S.E.’s efforts faced a significant hurdle when workers at RDU1 voted overwhelmingly against unionization. Out of 4,300 eligible voters, only 829 supported joining the union while 2,447 opposed it13. This result marked a setback for labor advocates striving to organize Amazon facilities in the South—a region historically hostile to unionization25.
CAUSE leaders attributed the loss to Amazon’s alleged interference in the election process. They accused the company of intimidating workers, favoring anti-union employees, and even firing the union’s co-founder shortly before voting began15. Despite these challenges, C.A.U.S.E. remains resolute. “This is only the beginning,” they declared in a statement following the vote. “We are building momentum in this struggle against exploitation”2.
The defeat at RDU1 underscores the immense power imbalance between Amazon and its workforce. As one of the largest logistics companies in North America, Amazon has vast resources to resist unionization efforts4. Yet C.A.U.S.E.’s organizing campaign has illuminated critical issues within warehouse labor practices—issues that resonate far beyond Garner.
The movement has exposed how racial, sexual, and gender hierarchies are used as tools to discipline and divide workers6. It has highlighted the urgent need for livable wages and safer working conditions across Amazon’s facilities. Above all, it has demonstrated the courage of workers who dare to challenge corporate giants despite overwhelming odds.
C.A.U.S.E.’s journey is far from over. While their first unionization attempt fell short, their fight continues with renewed determination. They aim to build solidarity among workers, educate communities about labor rights, and hold Amazon accountable for its treatment of employees7.
The road ahead will be difficult—but movements like C.A.U.S.E. remind us that progress often begins with resistance. As they push forward against exploitation and injustice, they offer a blueprint for worker-led organizing in an era dominated by corporate power.
Now is the time to stand with C.A.U.S.E. Share their story widely. Support their efforts to create a fairer workplace for thousands of Amazon associates. Together, we can amplify their voices and ensure that justice prevails—not just in Garner but across all workplaces where exploitation persists.
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