The Writers Guild has announced plans to picket Amazon’s upcoming “Prime Day,” which is the retail giant’s largest sales event of the year. Referring to it as “Crime Day,” the guild aims to use social media as a platform to convey their message to Amazon, emphasizing their opposition to the company’s Silicon Valley business practices. The guild, currently in its 68th day of strike, will also be picketing Amazon Culver City Studios on Wednesday.
Exploiting the Industry Business Model
The guild’s negotiating committee stated that big tech companies like Amazon have taken advantage of changes in the industry business model, resulting in the erosion of the middle class within the writing profession. In pursuit of maximizing profits, these companies have shifted the burden onto writers, who are now expected to produce more work in less time and for less compensation. The guild’s contract demands aim to establish reasonable protections that ensure writing remains a sustainable career for both current and future writers. The cost of these proposals to Amazon would amount to a mere $32 million per year, which is a minuscule 0.006% of the conglomerate’s annual revenue.
Amazon’s Anticompetitive Practices
The negotiating committee further criticized Amazon for employing the same anticompetitive tactics it used to become a dominant force in the tech industry. By positioning itself as a new gatekeeper in the media industry, Amazon has aggressively expanded through acquisitions and used its influence to disadvantage competitors, drive up prices for consumers, and suppress wages for writers. The committee highlighted that this situation is not unique, as big tech companies have infiltrated various industries across the country, transforming once sustainable careers into gig economies. The Writers Guild emphasizes that they are not alone in their fight against these detrimental practices.
Picketing for Change
During Wednesday’s picket, notable speakers will include leaders from the WGA West, guild members, and an Amazon delivery driver who is currently on strike. Deadline has reached out to Amazon Studios for comment, and any response received will be promptly updated.
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