Bye, Amazon

From: Maren Costa (May 04 2020, at 00:07)

Thank you Tim. Please keep in touch!

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From: Karthik (May 04 2020, at 01:43)

Thank you for standing up for justice. Climate Change and workers rights are related. And the problems can’t wait any longer if humanity is to survive, Thank you for doing what you did, to speak truth to power.

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From: Simone Brunozzi (May 04 2020, at 02:26)

Tim, I was at AWS 2008-2014, we never crossed path as you arrived later. It takes big balls to do something like this. Work-wise, you will be allright. Hopefully your decision to quit will contribute to a better conversation on the subject. Thanks for your sacrifice.

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From: Bruno (May 04 2020, at 02:56)

Thanks for standing up for what's right.

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From: Okta (May 04 2020, at 03:42)

It's a shame that your resignation was accepted to begin with. Kudos for your bravery!

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From: Jack (May 04 2020, at 03:46)

I've not followed your blog for a while (mea culpa) but I never thought I'd get back just to post a WELL DONE! comment. You did the right thing and the world needs more people like you.

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From: Alex (May 04 2020, at 03:58)

Thanks for taking this stand.

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From: Andrew Ritchie (May 04 2020, at 04:15)

Thankyou for your courage in taking action and speaking up about this.

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From: John Skinner (May 04 2020, at 04:55)

*stands up and applauds*

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From: Rick Nambo (May 04 2020, at 05:19)

You're doing God's work, son. Seriously, if more folks in the C-Suite actually conducted themselves with some morals and ethics as opposed to acting like life-sucking vampires then perhaps we wouldn't be in this situation? It seems our economic system encourages dog-eat-dog morality (it's only wrong if you get punished, getting caught doesn't matter any more), it's disturbing how quick people are today jump and defend it.

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From: issac (May 04 2020, at 05:32)

thank you for your strong stance on this issue. it feels as if there are fewer people truly guided by principle all the time. this is what it takes to make the world better.

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From: Leon Roy (May 04 2020, at 05:55)

Hats off to you sir for standing up for those folks who were fighting for better working conditions. Resigning, especially in this job market is a very courageous act indeed and inspires other techies like myself to hold ourselves to higher standards should we face a similar dilemma.

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From: Johan Zeeman (May 04 2020, at 06:11)

Wow! You don’t know me at all, but I’ve been vaguely following your career since the Open Text days. Today I need to unlurk to tell you how impressed and moved I am by your actions here. I hope everything works out well for you and your family, and that this might be a little seed of something that leads to greater change.

Thanks!

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From: Janson (May 04 2020, at 06:33)

Thank you.

As a fellow tech worker, it's inspiring to see one with similar privilege take a stand. Too often, it's those of the rank and file who make noise and are subsequently silenced or ignored—cough, (W).

So, thank you.

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From: Cailin (May 04 2020, at 07:00)

Thank you for being brave and taking a stand. History will remember you well.

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From: Vaso (May 04 2020, at 07:10)

The line between warehouse employee and customer is quite blurry, so what is shocking is that Amazon would risk potential customers.

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From: Gavin B (May 04 2020, at 07:14)

And indeed there will be time

To wonder, “Do I dare?” and, “Do I dare?”

[Tim]e to turn back and descend the stair,

With a bald spot in the middle of my hair —

(They will say: “How his hair is growing thin!”)

My morning coat, my collar mounting firmly to the chin,

My necktie rich and modest, but asserted by a simple pin —

(They will say: “But how his arms and legs are thin!”)

Do I dare

Disturb the universe?

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From: Chandana (May 04 2020, at 07:14)

Thank you for standing up for those who do not have the means to fight back!

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From: Chris (May 04 2020, at 07:22)

Given the timing and the circumstances I'd guessed this to be the case. Speaking as someone who's admired your work longer than you've been at Amazon, and who was thrilled to see you join us, I'm 💔but proud of you for sticking to your principles.

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From: Karl Groves (May 04 2020, at 07:29)

Much respect for taking this action, Tim. Doing the right thing is often painful, which I'm sure this has been, but you've done everything right here.

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From: Luis Sosa (May 04 2020, at 07:41)

In the midts of a pandemic that has shown our world leaders so lacking in moral fiber I am inspired to see an example of the opposite. Thank you!

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From: Intentionally Anonymous (May 04 2020, at 07:55)

Thank you Tim,

As someone still at Amazon who falls into many of the categories you mention, I won't reveal my actual name.

It is refreshing to see a VP stand up for their principles but sad to see, like Chee before you, that the end result is you are no longer at the company.

I wish you the best of luck in your future and hope, at some point, Amazon leadership recognizes that inclusion goes beyond words. Running a million person company and being Right A Lot requires actually seeking diverse perspectives.

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From: Cindy (May 04 2020, at 08:06)

Thank you. You are a beacon of light.

I hope this causes everyone to really look at the situation in the warehouse and the ethics of those who run the company. Hopefully public pressure will cause them to change. You will be a great asset to any company, and an awesome person to work for.

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From: Rick H (May 04 2020, at 08:18)

The problem is there is a massively huge disparity between people who get paid like a VP/Distinguished Engineer and those who get paid like an FC worker. It's nice to quit in protest, but you will rapidly find a new gig paying the same amount somewhere else and driving the same inequity in the system. People need to be paid a livable wage and those who are getting paid excessive amounts need to give some of it up.

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From: Paul (May 04 2020, at 08:26)

Have to respect your values.

Good luck

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From: Reza (May 04 2020, at 08:33)

Thank you! ❤️

I wish we had more powerful people like you in the company.

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From: Daniel (May 04 2020, at 08:40)

Thank you for sharing your experience and for taking such a clear stand in what you believe, especially with what you have had to give up to do it.

I hope your story will inspire others to do what they know is right but is not always easy.

Thanks again, the world definitely needs more people like you!

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From: Brandy (May 04 2020, at 08:47)

I just wanted to say that I'm proud of you for sharing this & taking a stand. It's unfortunate that Amazon workers have lost yet another an incredible ally. Thank you for sharing this.

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From: Kim Baer (May 04 2020, at 09:08)

It matters so much that someone with your reputation is taking this kind of stand.

It's an inspiration to all of us to do the same in our own way.

May there be a ripple effect, and may you be rewarded down the line with even better opportunities for having done the right thing.

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From: Nick P (May 04 2020, at 09:14)

A principled and honest stand. The world is a better place for people like you.Thank you

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From: Ted (May 04 2020, at 09:33)

Thank you Tim.

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From: M.J. (May 04 2020, at 09:40)

There's a British human rights activist it might be worth your while contacting (if you haven't already done so): Craig Murray, the former Ambassador to Uzbekistan. He was concerned about torture, and made his concerns known. Result: end of brilliant career! Sound familiar? So maybe a kindred soul for you there.

Oh, and you might want to write a book!

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From: Alex (May 04 2020, at 09:51)

Thank you. Immense respect and appreciation to you for this. Both for your decision and your public articulation of the reasons.

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From: Andy (May 04 2020, at 10:08)

It's very noble of you but I don't think anything is stopping Amazon's monopolistic tear. Once they've crushed every possible competitor we will all be at their mercy.

Please everyone STOP BUYING STUFF FROM AMAZON

you don't need it

Seriously

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From: Cary (May 04 2020, at 10:17)

The answer to corporate greed at the expense of workers in a capitalist structure is to organize and join a union.

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From: Sherill (May 04 2020, at 10:33)

Thumbs UP!

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From: James Gosling (May 04 2020, at 10:36)

Great letter. I struggle with the contradictions every day.

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From: Yasin (May 04 2020, at 10:37)

Thank you for the post, your insight, and for standing up for others.

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From: Darren (May 04 2020, at 11:02)

Tremendous amount of respect for your actions here Tim. Thanks for doing the right thing, and being brave enough to tell the world.

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From: Rand W (May 04 2020, at 11:07)

THANK YOU Tim!!!!

It is high time Amazon became more fair and responsible!

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From: Jeet (May 04 2020, at 11:24)

What an exemplary thing to do. Thank you.

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From: Carmela (May 04 2020, at 11:27)

Hi Tim, I admire your courage hugely and applaud it. Your bravery is especially admirable during this very difficult time. The piece you've written here is truly inspiring. After I read it, I wondered if you'd considered staying on (since you liked your team) and trying to effect culture change from within? (Or maybe that seemed hopeless?) As a company Amazon has always been ruthless, but now it seems just plain evil. Anyhow, wishing you all the best. I believe your integrity will be rewarded! Thanks for speaking up.

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From: Raj (May 04 2020, at 11:31)

Tim - it takes real courage to walk the talk. The sacrifice you made in terms of career and financial rewards is significant. Your actions are inspiring and I will keep this mind while i pursue my goals.

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From: Frank StMaly (May 04 2020, at 11:37)

Takes bravery to do that and I admire it. Never waver in your belief that you did a good thing. Maybe the only thing. I’ve been there and I’d do it again.

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From: Jeff Adams (May 04 2020, at 11:40)

...and I thought all the men of good conscience were dead. Thanks for proving me wrong.

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From: Meg Brady (May 04 2020, at 11:50)

Thank you for your support, Tim Bray! Meg from MSP1

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From: Erick C (May 04 2020, at 12:00)

Hi. At the end of your blog you mention that AWS essentially is trying and their diversity problem matches everyone else in the tech industry. This portion for me, as a former AWS employee and a person of color, is indicative of yours and others in AWS believing that things were going well inside of your bubble. AWS' diversity problem can't be ignored simply because everyone else is bad at it too. Someone needs to be a trail blazer for diversity and AWS is not doing anything close to enough about it. That lends to the problems throughout the rest of Amazon. If AWS was so great, they would push the boundaries for the rest of Amazon to improve.

I appreciate that you left for your principles and to show support for the whistleblowers, but the ending of your blog praises AWS for essentially doing nothing and almost nullifies the rest of your story.

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From: Donald Lepsch (May 04 2020, at 12:12)

An unbelievable selfless act for humanity. Thank you. Most people in low wage jobs are accustomed to continuous threat of job loss with the intent of making them work harder...very stressful. The world is a much better place because of people like you. Money or happiness ...a simple choice ...but some times very hard to decide. You are a shining example.

Don Lepsch

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From: Timo Van-Kissing (May 04 2020, at 12:15)

Thanks for this write-up and of course for standing up for those with less power.

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From: Margaux B (May 04 2020, at 12:17)

Honorable. And you spoke out - a person who will be heard. Thank you.

Will it encourage Amazon to view their employees as part of what makes them so great and listen first rather than react? Or will they just push faster for full robotics. The latter suits the culture.

I wish you the very best in your future endeavors.

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From: Barton Stanley (May 04 2020, at 12:20)

I greatly respect your actions. It's heartening to see a ranking person put people ahead of profit and personal gain. Gives me hope others may one day do the same.

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From: Glenn (May 04 2020, at 12:23)

I don't know you personally, but I am moved to see an expression of morality and empathy that I genuinely feared had disappeared - particularly in higher socio-economic demographics, where exposure to, and therefore understanding of, complexities and pressures of life for our fellow humans with less opportunity limits our ability to understand.

I wish you all the very best, for you and your family, and eagerly await news of where you work (or what company you create) next - so I can maybe apply for a job :) It would be nice to work for a company with people with actual humanity for a change.

Your sacrifice is an inspiration.

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From: wendy john (May 04 2020, at 12:35)

so utterly refreshing to read of your noble act. I commend you and respect your action.

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From: Crystal (May 04 2020, at 12:54)

As a physician in Seattle who’s seen the struggles that immigrant/low income families face as they navigate the risks of working vs the challenges of worsening poverty, thank you for writing this and taking action based on your principles. Here’s to hoping this might spark some change.

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From: J (May 04 2020, at 13:00)

Thank you for living by your morals, your courage to stand up against this is inspiring.

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From: Elton Chambers (May 04 2020, at 13:03)

Thank you for staying true to your principles.

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From: Andrew (May 04 2020, at 13:14)

As a lowly Amazon peon I cannot thank you more. I worked for Ring until it was purchased and the company went from incredible to work for to hell in the span of a few months. I wish Amazon cared but they don't. Its clear to me now. Thank you for being a voice for us Tim. I didn't think there were any good people at the high end of Amazon and it looks like there was at least one. Hopefully they don't see this. I need the insurance.

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From: Arne (May 04 2020, at 13:19)

I applaud your courageous decision to stand up for what you think is right!

Wishing you all the best!

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From: Colin (May 04 2020, at 13:30)

I'm so proud of your decision and wish there were more executives with your morals and ethics. I hope you end up "walking across the street" and joining a new company that will cherish your views and encourage your efforts.

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From: April (May 04 2020, at 13:32)

Thank you for standing in solidarity with other humans and adding to the collective voices trying to push real values and compassion.

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From: Kent Towers (May 04 2020, at 13:39)

Thank you for being real. I loved using Amazon, but I haven't been able to buy anything lately knowing how they treat workers. How much money do they need? Maybe this will help make a difference. Something clearly needs to change in this world & in the U.S. I wish Costco or some other company would launch a competitor to Amazon that didn't make me feel guilty about spending my money with them. Good luck in your future endeavors, something tells me you'll land on your feet sir!

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From: Michelle King (May 04 2020, at 13:56)

I work at an Amazon warehouse. Thank you for standing up for what is right. Not many people would do that in today's world. In the warehouse numbers are all that matter not the people.

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From: John Martin (May 04 2020, at 14:03)

THANK YOU, for following your values and taking a stand. The values of Amazon are not at all aligned with those of the city and region that hosts the company. I am trilled to see someone with backbone. Will this inspire change at Amazon? Only the future will tell, but I would guess that sadly, no.

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From: Matthew Semerko (May 04 2020, at 14:05)

Thank you. I wish more people in similar positions of power could come to the same conclusion:compassion can coexist within capitalism.

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From: Mike (May 04 2020, at 14:11)

Thank you Tim.

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From: Alexander Falk (May 04 2020, at 14:14)

Well done, Tim! I applaud you for standing up for the whistleblowers and taking this step.

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From: Christine (May 04 2020, at 14:27)

Thank you Tim for repeatedly doing the right thing as a professional, an Amazonian, and a human. There is an imbalance in application of the leadership principles at Amazon; a source of great frustration for me before my time ended. Keep the bar raised high, there will be many great things to come!

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From: Not_my_real_name (May 04 2020, at 14:48)

This is just a simple statement of respect and support.

You did the right thing.

I went through approximately the same movie myself. That company doesn´t exist anymore! Let´s just say it might have been anyone from Oracle (they exist) to EDS (I believe they don´t) etc etc but then again it could have been Boeing (wobbling?).. I´m reticent to say. You on the other hand have been braver. I did talk to the press at the time but it was impractical to get a story together. It was after all "just another story."

What appalled me most of all was that all that seemed to matter to those that I disagreed with was "the bottom line". There were no (!!) scruples as to how they fluffed it up.

Life is short, and getting shorter. If you can afford to walk away then you will feel better. I think that I must presume for you that walking away has not been an existential issue. I say that because others that have your values might feel trapped. The fact that they haven´t acted should not be held against them. Whereas there are how many others in a situation like yourself that could do the same?

Good luck.

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From: David (May 04 2020, at 15:00)

We only have one square inch of values to defend - and you have done so with honor.

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From: DJC (May 04 2020, at 15:06)

I'd have to say this is not a failure of capitalism, but of corporatism. A trillion dollar company and a guy starting a tow truck business with his savings houldn't be confused. But kudos to your desire to leave the lucrative corporate vampire that is Amazon.

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From: Mehal (May 04 2020, at 15:08)

I left Amazon shortly before the 2015 NYTimes article. I wrote a "rebuttal to rebuttals" on LinkedIn where I basically said that the article was likely accurate, that Amazon's response was poor, but that Amazon was good at fixing things. "There's nothing wrong with Amazon that can't be fixed by what's right with Amazon" is how I closed the essay.

It's disappointing to see that for some people, things have gotten worse. Props to you for stepping away.

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From: Amanda F. Smith (May 04 2020, at 15:12)

Thanks for doing what is right and speaking out for the people that can not get their voices heard. It is rare for someone with so much power to stand up for the powerless, but it shouldn't be. I hope more people with the ability to change the way that the average worker is treated and paid at these giant corporations looks to your example as one to emulate.

You'll find something better and you will continue to live by your morals and ethics just as you are doing now.

Good luck, sir!

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From: Fred Starkis (May 04 2020, at 15:14)

You quitting honorable over the firings of the warehouse whisteblowers is honorable, but unfortunately won't amount to much more than a Jerry McGuire moment. It will bring you peace of mind, but you're out $1M and at the end of the day it doesn't change how Amazon is run.

It's unfortunate that Bezos doesn't stand up to this and actually does something about it. It's clear what kind of puny man he is, he sees everyone who works under him as disposable (it's well known that Amazon tech workers are viewed lower than management since they're replaceable).

Nothing will change until the workers unionize and government steps in.

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From: franni (May 04 2020, at 15:15)

TIm,

You have just done an amazing thing, both for yourself and others. You used your voice, power and position so that others might find and enjoy theirs. This is basic goodness and compassion. I hope its contagious, too...

You are a hero in sad times, thank you

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From: Quentin Guobadia (May 04 2020, at 15:20)

I very much admire your principles and lack of patience for the platitudes you must have be given to justify the firings. Ideally such an unambiguous and high profile departure will both empower sustained mobilization by workers and prompt critical reflection for those in charge (though by you doing this, it must be a dire state of the culture within Amazon).

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From: Oran (May 04 2020, at 15:39)

Your actions give me hope. Thank you.

I am often afraid that it is inevitable for the powerful to salve the discomfort of their conscience with the privilege from their exploitation, and thus never attend to the withering of their humanity and all humanity.

Your actions give me hope that this is not inevitable, and so I am less afraid for the future. Even the the tiniest amount of hope, as it is, means everything.

Thank you.

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From: Talha Ahmed (May 04 2020, at 15:44)

Tim, I don’t know you but I’m certainly inspired by what you did. You chose to do the right thing, never forget that.

Your deeds will not go unnoticed.

Talha Ahmed

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From: Kalos (May 04 2020, at 15:46)

Hey Tim, I doubt you'll read this. But I have a question that constantly comes to mind whenever I see a story about Amazon warehouse culture.

Do you believe it comes from the top down at a regional/site level?

My experience thus far coming up from a seasonal, to a L5 manager (with no degree) is amazing. I have loved every warehouse I've worked in and the trend has been that leadership has always cared. Every action item related to associate experience was accomplished. Every network rollout related to associate experience or safety to my recollection was swiftly met with support and held to a high standard.

I sincerely think the issue really does lie with our true manager not redistributing properly based on associate experience. The associates will hit the rates, if engaged properly. I've proved that in my ~3 years of experience.

It saddens me that we've lost you. We will continue to lose more if this issue is not solved. I have the solutions, albeit on a site level. I can only do so much.

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From: Jeffs_Mom (May 04 2020, at 15:52)

Looks like you need to move this site to a larger instance :P

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From: Megan (May 04 2020, at 15:59)

It's refreshing to read a concise no-nonsense response to the situation.

No hyperbole, no equivocation, just straight shooting truth from an insider moved to action by what they experienced.

Thank you.

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From: Bill (May 04 2020, at 16:15)

A few things here don't make sense to me, I'd like to elaborate on what those are.

> AECJ

The AECJ open letter doesn't strike me as scientific. Amazon only seems to have a 3% profit margin which isn't considerably different than other companies in the sector; this doesn't strike me as "resources and scale" since it could be very effectively wiped out with even a modest change. And economists vary quite considerably on the issue of how to tackle climate change, pretty much the only reliable mechanism I'm aware of is a carbon emission tax—and it's not feasible for a single entity like Amazon to internalize an externality.

However I would speculate that by consolidating delivery services, warehousing, and data centers, Amazon has done more to reduce energy usage than any other company on the planet. (But this is my personal hypothesis.)

> leaders were threatened with dismissal.

Isn't related to walking off of the job, showing up when unscheduled, and repeatedly speaking on behalf of the company (a well known no-no)?

> and brutally insensitive remarks appeared in leaked executive meeting notes

Which is one person's opinion and not of the company. Boards use parliamentary procedure precisely to filter this stuff out. This is also a good example why employees typically cannot speak on behalf of the company, so this seems like a double standard.

> it was clear to any reasonable observer that they were turfed for whistleblowing.

I'm still not sure what the whistleblowers were calling to attention. Anything that's not already public knowledge? Something with a scientific basis behind it?

> I’m sure it’s a coincidence

If your theory is true, then there ought to be other activists who were not fired because they fit a different profile. Is this the case? Correlation is not causation.

> workers are saying they’re at risk in the warehouses.

Is there scientific evidence for this? We still don't well understand the transmission mechanism; but it seems to be lower outdoors and in large spaces with low talking; and seems to be unrelated to touch. Have there been documented cases inside a warehouse, and are those numbers worse than staying at home and not fulfilling orders?

> France is doing it.

That article strikes me as the worst possible outcome; people who would like to work cannot work even if they want to. You don't hear "I would like to stop working, but the government hasn't ordered me to yet." This makes no sense to me.

> because capitalism

I don't think this is a fair critique. I like the definition "a system of large capital investment that increases per-worker productivity" for a variety of reasons. And I think your complaint isn't related to this aspect, but I'm not sure what it could be.

I mean, I surely wouldn't want to be working on a pre-industrial farm—like vast majority of people before the 1900s. And there's not really any other systems sustainable for more than half a generation.

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From: Vali (May 04 2020, at 16:31)

Hello Mr.Bray,

Thank you for everything you have done. I respect your courage and your dedication to ethics.

I've been meaning to do something that makes it easy for workers everywhere to unionize - be it unskilled labor or be it IT workers - and for the union model to be one which good companies would love because it actually gets them better workers (think basic mandatory trainings & access to upskilling programs, for starters). I imagined an app would make it easy.

I hope someone like you can start the ball rolling in that direction; I would love to contribute what I can towards it. Protecting our companies and the larger working masses from the unethical, short-sighted decisions of a few bad managers is important.

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From: Shane (May 04 2020, at 16:43)

Great job Tim. You are part of a small group of corporate executives who really treat right from wrong and ignore the million dollar payout.

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From: Philipp Beyrl (May 04 2020, at 16:54)

You're a good guy Tim!

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From: Josh Jetter (May 04 2020, at 16:58)

Way to show real leadership Tim. I know that wasn't an easy decision to make, but it matters a lot and I have a lot of respect for it.

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From: Kat Hsu (May 04 2020, at 17:01)

Hi Tim, it's a breadth of fresh air to read your post. Thank you for standing on your core values to fight for folks that really needs help.

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From: Mike Williams (May 04 2020, at 17:03)

Thank you Tim for standing up to the failure of Amazon's moral imagination.

I've thought of working for Amazon off and on in one of those high-paying jobs where many of my former colleagues in the sector now sit comfortably, but have never been able to square that with the unpleasantness of its lesser paid human environment.

We are members of families, states, nations and creeds that have mixed records on so many things. Whereas we can publicly engage with our families, states etc on the failures, it is so much harder to do it with the companies we work for, even though they contain our "found families" of co-workers.

Respect.

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From: Elizabeth (May 04 2020, at 17:06)

In looking to see how I could leave a comment, I

realized with a chirp of a laugh, that embedded in

the title of your blog site, "tim bray ongoing", is

a foreshadow of your latest blog's focus. ie

tim bray, on going. Sorry for the pun. Well, maybe

not entirely, as I hope my recognition of it brings a

smile to your spirit. I really like that you honored

your code of ethics. Norbert (up there somewhere

in these comments), I think, doesn't grok yet that

what makes doing-so /not-doing-so so valuable

to many people is unrelated to how much or

how little your decision cost you financially.

I like that you, "snapped." That you didn't/don't

want to be complicit in those kinds of business

practices, that you did not "go rogue;" brought

your concerns as a VP/valued employee to the

correct administrators, and resigned because

you didn't/don't want to be part of a system that

treats a large segment of its employees

disrespectfully.

And I am heartened that you could and did afford

to honor your own code of ethics.

"Not everyone has your financial resources"---to

my mind is totally IRRELEVANT. I think it took

integrity. You have it, and you used it.

The fact that you did so has meant a lot to loads

of people, myself included. It boosted my

morale. 'Makes me smile.

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From: Larry (May 04 2020, at 17:09)

Thank you for your courage and honesty!

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From: Vishal (May 04 2020, at 17:23)

Dear Mr Tim Bray,

Its very refreshing to see your action at a time when we have become so self centered that only a handful truly care about things that matter.

I am sure it was not an easy decision.

I hope your action serves as an example for other leaders.

Wish you the best.

Regards,

Vishal

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From: Murray Barton (May 04 2020, at 17:31)

Massive kudos to you Tim. Good luck with whatever you take on next.

Cheers

Murray

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From: Amanda (May 04 2020, at 17:33)

Wow! I never comment on anything but I had to write to let you know what you did was AMAZING! It was courageous, ethical, and best of all you brought these issues into the light. Hopefully, we can start having conversations about it. Your parents must be very proud of you.

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From: Michael (May 04 2020, at 17:35)

I want to acknowledge you for doing the "right " thing. We need more people like you who will exhibit the compassion and empathy so needed in this country's corporations no matter what happens. I fear so many businesses small to large will be devoured and bought by the likes Of Amazon, Google etc. It happened in the great recession and this will be far worse. I wish you the best life can offer

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From: MaryMary (May 04 2020, at 17:39)

Courage defines you. You give voice to the voiceless. <3

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From: sama (May 04 2020, at 17:41)

you did the right thing, good luck in the future

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From: Fazal Majid (May 04 2020, at 17:45)

Much respect for this courageous stand!

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From: Jeff J Hunter (May 04 2020, at 17:56)

Tim, this was really bold. I applaud you for standing up for what you believe. I do although also want to point out that as a leader in several organizations myself, it's very unfair to mention that this was firing "people of color". You also have to imagine that these people are possibly radicalized and outspoken? That is surely their right, and I support them if they truly are concerned about their safety. Either way, your life is about to change, and it took a lot of courage to do what you did.

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From: Bill Morton (May 04 2020, at 17:58)

"When something bad happens you have three choices. You can either let it define you, let it destroy you, or you can let it strengthen you."

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From: Nancy Helman (May 04 2020, at 18:04)

If that is the treatment and resistance of Amazon to not protect their workers, the buyers essential personnel, then I will resist buying from Amazon!!

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From: Zac (May 04 2020, at 18:10)

Thank you Tim for taking this stand. Many of us at Amazon or AWS aren't financially able to do so, and I hope that you doing this helps others in leadership to see things differently and make change.

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From: yadda-yadda-freakin'-yadda: Brek Renzelman (May 04 2020, at 18:12)

Awesome, dude. Thanks for doing the right thing. But keep in mind, the price paid by most workers earning much, much less than you in any field is measured in the ability or inability just to survive after taking a stand. Stop congratulating yourself for doing the bare minimum of what should always be the humane response to global tragedy. Alright? What you did was great, but it wasn't all that great.

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From: Mark (May 04 2020, at 18:13)

Thanks for writing this. It seems like we need a new kind of unionization for the 21st century. And you're right, the solution here is probably political rather than technical.

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From: Jomo (May 04 2020, at 18:31)

I Don’t work for anyone I own my own vending machine business but my sister works in a warehouse and all I have to say beyond that is

THANK YOU

FOR BEING A MAN WITH MORALS !

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From: Emily (May 04 2020, at 18:42)

The world is lucky to have people like you in it.

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From: Avigail (May 04 2020, at 18:46)

What you've done matters very much. Thank you.

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From: Majla (May 04 2020, at 18:50)

Tim Bray for Nobel Prize. I would say that 99% of all applauding you will have no spine in face of clash between moral compass and greed. You are perhaps one in a million with a shining character and gold standard conscience.

If no else, God is going to look after you since you had been His trustee for the wellbeing and solace of His creation.

I am not sure if I would be able to do what you did with over 1 million dollars.

My conviction is that the Spiritual dollars are deposited in your account for the world hereafter.

I agree with an eafrlier comment that you are doing God's work

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From: Garrett (May 04 2020, at 19:14)

Thanks Tim, this is huge. We need more like you. But is AWS really off the hook? Were those accusations of strip-mining open source from other companies unfounded?

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From: Larry Accardo (May 04 2020, at 19:27)

Thank you for standing up for us warehouse workers and others of Amazon.

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From: Zoe (May 04 2020, at 19:34)

It’s people like you, and actions like what you just did, that make me have hope for our society. Thank you for taking a stand, to encourage others to do what is right and humane, and pushing for fixing part of the brokenness of the American work culture. I hope you get another job at an even more amazing company, I’m sure another one of these companies will gladly snatch you up! Best of luck!

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From: Kathi (May 04 2020, at 19:37)

You are a hero. I have watched this for 40 years and have never seen anyone with such power actually step up for working people at such a cost.

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From: Andrew Bowen (May 04 2020, at 19:52)

Mr Bray, The "little" people in an organization thank-you for bringing a voice that for profit major media seems to ignore.

Capitalism is currently run by the financially powerful. Men like you show that the people with powerful bank accounts are actually very weak.

I encourage my friends to vote with their dollars so that honesty in business becomes the norm. I believe that dishonesty is more harmful than murder and the recidivism rate is much higher for dishonest weak people.

Keep up the ethical work!

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From: Shannon (May 04 2020, at 20:07)

Good for you Tim! As a former Amazonian myself, the culture is vile all the way through. Better things will come to you my friend!

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From: Lysa (May 04 2020, at 20:09)

It feels so good to do the thing you know is the right thing. Good for you for having the courage, conviction, principles and clarity to come to this place. Wishing you a next chapter that rewards this difficult decision.

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From: D J (May 04 2020, at 20:22)

Tim,

Thank you for taking a stand on behalf of those who cannot.

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From: J.N. (May 04 2020, at 20:24)

Thank you, this means a lot.

We have the choice to learn to protect each other.

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From: Andrew (May 04 2020, at 20:30)

Kudos to you. Thank you for speaking the truth and setting the example.

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From: Julia (May 04 2020, at 20:33)

So sad to see the question about "Are men or women more likely to be pregnant?". Both men & women can get pregnant.

Regarding the Bye, Amazon post, the sole fact that you want to protect people who promote the Climate Change conspiracy theory is enough to show how unjustified your action was. I didn't even read the whole blog post.

Employees cannot create unrest in a company, while others work.

And numerous immunologist have insisted on the need for the human body to strengthen its immune system, by being regularly in contact with a variety of viruses & bacteria.

We are designed to fight those.

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From: Isaac M (May 04 2020, at 20:34)

Wow, quitting at a time like this takes guts. I applaud you for taking a stance. Large companies should provide basic masks and gloves for all employees, especially when working in close proximity to one another.

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From: Bill Posters (May 04 2020, at 20:37)

Dude, you were about to retire anyway, I hardly see the courage in your actions.

It seems to me like all you did was pack your things into a box a few days ahead of schedule.

You're 64 years old. Not 40. Quitting at 40 because of principles takes a LOT more courage than retiring a few days earlier than planned.

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From: DC (May 04 2020, at 20:43)

As a female minority working in tech, I want to say thank you for standing up for those who don't have a voice. Thank you for your courage and sacrifice - your leadership is the kind our world needs. God bless.

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From: fred (May 04 2020, at 20:57)

The fact that you "Snapped" says way more about YOU than it does about Amazon. The fact you Escalated through the proper channels tells me that you can escalate anything you want and whether there is merit depends on whether your "concern" gets attention. The fact that you felt compelled to blog about this experience tells me your a social justice warrior activist that isn't cut from the cloth to fit in and make changes in the corporat world.

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From: Duncan Hart (May 04 2020, at 21:08)

If you don't stand up or something then you'll fall for anything. I applaud you.

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From: Anonymous (May 04 2020, at 21:18)

This is one of the best things I have read. Not many months have passed by, but I can feel every bit of your observation. I am glad that you took an opportunity to bring this insight to the outside world.

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From: Portwood (May 04 2020, at 21:26)

I respect your decision! The word needs more people like you in the world!

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From: Anonymous (May 04 2020, at 21:39)

I am incredibly moved by your brave and selfless action. What you did took significant valor and moral courage.

AWS may have been a great team to work on, but the AWS cloud computing service is used by the CIA. Yes, the intelligence agency responsible for the extrajudicial killing and torture of black and brown people around the globe. In addition, AWS technology is used by the fossil fuel industry to help oil and gas companies rapidly find drillable oil locations.

Regardless of what you did before, your act of rebellion sets an example for the rest of us on the hamster wheel. It is time we all question our silence, complicity and hierarchy of values.

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From: Alan (May 04 2020, at 21:45)

Thank you for speaking out. The world needs more people of courage, more people who are willing to stand against injustice and fight for what is right. You're a leader and a hero. Hopefully your actions will help to incite true change in the despicably inhumane culture at Amazon.

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From: Hannelie (May 04 2020, at 22:00)

I would do anything to work for someone like you!

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From: Anonymous (May 04 2020, at 22:05)

Speaking of Snap..talk to Jeremi and come over here! We are always looking for great people with solid moral compasses.

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From: Nicole Shepard (May 04 2020, at 22:17)

The world needs more people like you.

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From: Yigoboy (May 04 2020, at 22:38)

You will be missed, Tim. It's a huge loss having you depart. Thanks for the event driven architecture talks. You have truly inspired me and many others to Invent.

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From: superlimoncello (May 04 2020, at 22:55)

Please do everything in your power to protect and to get justice for workers, previously under your supervision, who are affected by that which you opposed and by this public statement.

You have the opportunity to make things better for a lot of people. Let’s see it happen.

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From: Mitch Lindgren (May 04 2020, at 23:09)

Well said. Thank you for taking a principled stand for your beliefs.

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From: Jeremy (May 04 2020, at 23:15)

Kia ora Tim,

Bravo for your stand - I often wonder if I'd have the strength of conviction to make a moral stand such as this (and sadly, think probably not - all power to you).

Cheers,

Jeremy

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From: Anonymous (May 04 2020, at 23:26)

I am incredibly moved by your brave and selfless action. What you did took significant valor and moral courage.

AWS may have been a great team to work on, but the AWS cloud computing service is used by the CIA. Yes, the intelligence agency responsible for the extrajudicial killing and torture of black and brown people around the globe. In addition, AWS technology is used by the fossil fuel industry to help oil and gas companies rapidly find drillable oil locations.

Regardless of what you did before, your act of rebellion sets an example for the rest of us on the hamster wheel. It is time we all question our silence, complicity and hierarchy of values.

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From: Tony (May 04 2020, at 23:36)

All this Information is rich and much appreciated. The struggle for power in a capitalist economy is real. Would it be unprofessional or inappropriate of you to include your avenues of approach for fighting these hilariously bad decisions? Hopefully your resignation brings more light on the ugly underbelly that is Amazons' inhumane decisions to fire employees who make too much noise.

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From: PitBullCH (May 04 2020, at 23:48)

Tim - really good to see there’s still people out there willing to put ethics before money.

Well done, hope and suspect you will be employed fairly soon by a more socially responsible company.

@Amazon - reputation in tatters - your move.

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From: Chauyan (May 05 2020, at 00:19)

Hey,

Even though I am just a nobody, but I really appreciate your effort on this thing and admire this action.

God bless you and good luck for the future.

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From: Aaron (May 05 2020, at 00:54)

Kudos to you

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From: Tom Ritchford (May 05 2020, at 01:39)

It's very rare that people are willing show integrity at the cost of their wallets. Well done!

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From: sue (May 05 2020, at 02:27)

Many thanks for doing what is RIGHT, not many people do and what you have shown is courage which demands RESPECT.

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From: Pat Gra (May 05 2020, at 02:54)

Tim, I read your blog with great interest and not surprised by the Amazon culture you are describing and in particular for employees in the warehouses.

Admire your integrity and stand in walking away from Amazon.

We have a Warehouse close to where I live and journalists have been undercover to highlight some of the unfavourable working conditions.

Have never shopped as a customer on Amazon.

Well done to the French for standing up to this Global brands that for me reflects greed, manipulation of small businesses and void of respect for all of its workers

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From: Ron Hills (May 05 2020, at 03:38)

Thank you for having the fortitude to stand up for the right things.

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From: Sebastian (May 05 2020, at 03:39)

You definitely did the right thing. Most professionals would choose money over ethics but you didn't and that's huge.

Not sure if things will change at Amazon with your leaving. But I was about to accept an offer with them and thanks to the awareness your created, they just lost a candidate. And a customer, I might add.

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From: Crystal ORourke (May 05 2020, at 03:41)

Sir. I have so much respect for you. Do these families have go fund mes or anything we can share? I have a small videocast and would be happy to use my platform to help get these families assistance. Please feel free to reach out to me. theindiehuntress at Gmail.

Thanks for doing what's right, even though it's hard.

-Crystal ORourke

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From: Valda (May 05 2020, at 03:58)

Saw small article on your stand in Australia and delighted to hear of your actions. Heartening indeed. We need more Tim’s,

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From: Turab (May 05 2020, at 04:25)

Hey Tim, so I'm not a great enthusiast of what Amazon is all about but like you said it's about capitalism. And you definitely rekindled my hope in good people doing the right thing and not being only about the money. I wish you could come up with something that would be somewhat of a speed bump to them taking advantage of the system? You talk a good game and considering you working in a field that's highly paid (not just as a VP) but the tech division or AWS maybe come up with something that'll help to even out the field for the people(manpower) without whom all this tech/web processes are basically worthless because without workers at the fulfillment centers what's going to get shipped? And without that next day or 3day delivery promise what's so great about it anyway.... the faster it rises the harder it falls... nothing lasts forever except true/sincere grit. Atleast that's what I think. Maybe you should start a service for the people by the people.... in any case kudos to you for doing what's right and standing for values&morals. Bless you and your family.

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From: Anne williams (May 05 2020, at 04:33)

As a woman who worked in corporate America for more than 40 years, you are my hero. Everything you say has been my experience. Thank you for seeing the people who are being victimized.

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From: Kate Murphy (May 05 2020, at 04:44)

Thank you for your actions and then sharing the story. I have to believe you will be a change maker.

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From: Joan T Wynne (May 05 2020, at 04:47)

Tim Bray, you are a hero! Thank you for your bravery. May all of us be inspired to take courageous steps toward justice.

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From: Peggy (May 05 2020, at 04:51)

Thank you for standing up for your fellow humans. So rare now days. You are a fine spirit.

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From: lil free (May 05 2020, at 05:07)

Thank you for this kernel of actual tear jerking good news in this shitstorm. It is a beautiful reminder that we are somehow evolving, and maybe in many many decades may be free of the consumer yoke we carry.

We don’t know each other. You made my day, and I wish you only the best in this world, small moves, large moves, all the inching forward we humans can do, changes the playing field and gives each other courage.

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From: Inman (May 05 2020, at 05:12)

Well done. It's very challenging to lead by example and quit in such a circumstance. I've tried to fight such battles and unfortunately found that I was a lone soldier almost every times.

In your off time, perhaps you may be successful in reaching out to your legislature contacts to try and get the ball rolling on some improvements. I'm trying exactly that in an unrelated matter of another state where insurance profits are at the expense of IMHO a poorly managed insurance regulation.

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From: Rose ODonnell (May 05 2020, at 05:19)

It is good to see a person of principle at a high level in this country. How can I tell Amazon that I will boycott online sales until they fix this?

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From: Valerie Fulford (May 05 2020, at 05:24)

You should be proud and sleep well.

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From: Michael Lissack (May 05 2020, at 05:26)

Tim

Read Exit Voice and Loyalty by Albert Hirschman it will give you a fulller context of what you have been through

25 years ago I walked away from a $1mm per year job over ethics

It is takes an adjustment but ... well done

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From: Serena Skiffington (May 05 2020, at 05:36)

Bravo! We need more ethical people like you in executive positions.

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From: Lorelle (May 05 2020, at 05:37)

Thank you for standing up for those who were wronged, and for bravely sharing the ugly side of 21st century capitalism.

While so many were at home with loved ones, the warehouse employees left their families daily to provide for the rest of the country. Beyond enhanced cleaning protocols shared on Amazon's website, it sounds as if little was done to care for these workers who bravely showed up day after day, knowing that they and their loved ones could potentially be impacted by COVID-19. In the government/military, there is hardship pay for when you are asked to go above and beyond by living/working in a high-risk area, Amazon should do the same for their foundation, their warehouse employees instead of firing those trying to share the concerns.

I wish more corporate leaders would take a stand and recognize that without a strong foundation, their businesses would fail.

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From: sue gregor (May 05 2020, at 05:40)

The world needs more people like you. Standing up for what is right is not always an easy thing to do. And for a VP level to do it knowing the possible cost? Wow rather admirable. Good for you. Good karma shall come to you. Thank you for speaking up for humans who don’t feel they have that power.

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From: Lois Letchford (May 05 2020, at 05:48)

Thank you for your bravery. The world needs people like you.

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From: Bruce Tate (May 05 2020, at 05:55)

I, for one, greatly appreciate this action, Tim.

We only met briefly, in Matsue for the ruby conference there. I respect this decision tremendously. I especially respect that you used your position of power to support people without.

Many thanks.

Bruce Tate (grox.io)

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From: Jessica (May 05 2020, at 06:09)

Amazon is a truly abhorrent organization and my hope is that this pandemic opens more eyes to that fact. YOU CAN BUY THINGS OTHER PLACES, PEOPLE.

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From: Former Amazon customer (May 05 2020, at 06:13)

Amazing—I hope more execs will take a stand like you did, but I fear we won’t see that. So how about a boycott??

I no longer order from Amazon and I recently stopped shopping at Whole Foods as their employees are unhappy with safety standards as well.

Hopefully one good thing that will come from this pandemic is that people will be able to wait longer for items to be delivered or they will more often support their local businesses even if it costs a little more. Thank you for your sacrifice.

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From: Celeste Holz (May 05 2020, at 06:17)

Thank you so much for your integrity. I am in a program that trains individuals with disabilities to work as software engineers, but the recent firings of whistle blowers at Amazon and Google have made it clear to me that I could never in good conscience work for the private sector. While anti-trust laws and worker rights legislation will help, consumers also need to realize that what’s convenient isn’t always right.

The tech world needs more people like you!!!!

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From: Michelle Tyler (May 05 2020, at 06:21)

It's uplifting to see this moral stance taken by someone high up in the Amazon food chain. I wish more people had your ethics, Amazon, namely Jeff Bezos really is a vile behemoth of an industry. I for one would love nothing more than to see it disappear. Perhaps Earth would have more chance of healing if Amazon wasn't shoving crap down peoples throats 24/7.

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From: Rick Rydberg (May 05 2020, at 06:27)

I will try and use more brick and mortar stores because of your firing.

I am glad I clicked on your link.

Rick

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From: Hannah (May 05 2020, at 06:38)

Man you made the front page, I keep seeing this over and over. Don't listen to the people who say it won't make a difference. Nobody ever quits that high up for ethical reasons, even if they want to, because people think the professional thing to do is shut up and mind your business. You're gonna be an example that it's fine to question things and think for yourself, for other people in similar positions.

I'm sure seeing "Amazon VP Quits" has already turned a few hundred people away from the retail site

Please consider heading up some sort of social action committee or releasing some statements on what we can specifically do to help--legal, political, I don't know. Tons of people are terrified of Amazon's practices but don't understand how to fight back effectively, or if it's even possible. Simply "not shopping/supporting" online isn't effective, especially with supporting AWS being unavoidable. But it really feels like David and Goliath here, where Goliath has a machine gun and on crack, and David is a blind deaf double amputee. Help. We don't want Mars turned into an Amazon packing plant 🙃

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From: Kempton (May 05 2020, at 06:39)

Thanks a lot Tim up for the whistleblowers & rightful frightened warehouse workers due to deadly Covid19! I've already looked up my most recent April Amazon order will soon call in to complain and talk about why the issues you raised are so wrong! Shameful things that Amazon are doing to whistleblowers and rightful frightened warehouse workers! They are human beings like you and me deserved to be safe and stay alive during Covid19! In fact, shame on Mr. Jeff Bezos the boss man himself!

P.S. Thanks also for giving up that cool US$1m (pre-tax) to speak up and do the right thing! World needs more people like you to stand up to people like Mr. Bezos. In fact, we, the little people, can do our small parts to effect changes, by calling Amazon to complain of an old or during a new order! I'm pretty sure all these calls are carefully monitored.

If we don't do our small parts to help our frontline Amazon whistleblowers and rightful frightened warehouse workers, then may be we don't really deserve them saving us. Thats my 2 cents.

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From: Marianne Dufour (May 05 2020, at 06:46)

All my gratitude and respect for your integrity and action. I figure that your move throws you off balance on the one hand, but it mostly rebalances you and sets you up for much better. I wish you and everyone you did this for all the best. I do hope that it keeps on shaking up Amazon so that things improve.

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From: Virgil Bierschwale (May 05 2020, at 06:50)

Capitalism without regulation is the most destructive force in our World.

A tip of the hat to you for doing this.

Virgil

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From: Justin (May 05 2020, at 06:55)

Would you please give the world one more contribution? Please take your values to Washington and run for public office. Thank you.

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From: Jim Yuan (May 05 2020, at 06:59)

Tim,

I applaud your values and principle, it’s extremely rare for someone in management (haves) to sacrifice their high paying position for injustice to employees (have not) at a different division, to make a statement, show support and take a stand.

I personally encourage you to continue this path and RE-engage with Amazon to help ratify this situation. You have the passion to do the right things for people. If Jeff Bezos is a true leader for the people, he would put you in a position to help accelerate this change in his organization!

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From: David Henkel (May 05 2020, at 07:00)

Thank you Tim for standing up to “Be the Change” you want to see in the world. We all know we can’t wait around for it to get legislated in. I applaud your bravery! I vow to NEVER buy another Amazon product and will try to convince others to do the same. Together we can bring back small business.

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From: Massimo (lurking from italy/germany since ever) (May 05 2020, at 07:14)

Respect

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From: Eileen (May 05 2020, at 07:19)

Thank you for your sacrifice, Tim Bray. You are a wonderful human being.

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From: Christine Funt (May 05 2020, at 07:24)

Thank you, Tim, for standing up for your beliefs. Best of luck to you in the future. I know you will continue to do great work.

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From: michael wineberg (May 05 2020, at 07:30)

Excellent honest, ethical behaviour and very good article from the author. Yes, the problems are inherent in capitalism, which is fueled by and fuels consumerism . I am guilty. And I am an excellent and highly appreciative Amazon Prime customer. Bet where is the compassion and understanding of Jeff Bezos and his company in the way warehouse workers are treated and in the morally reprehensible firings of those who speak trying to change things for the better. Great customer service but but bad corporate policy and worker management.

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From: Pat Fitzpatrick (May 05 2020, at 07:41)

Thank you for your sacrifice in the name of human rights and dignity. Please seriously consider running for elected office. We need to break the cycle of crony capitalism and weaken the bond between corporations and our democratic institutions.

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From: Victoria Morgan (May 05 2020, at 07:47)

Tim,

Thank you for your thoughtful words and brave stance. I worked for Amazon as an area manager in one of their fulfillment centers and I too left the company because I wouldn't stand for the way that the employees, including myself, didn't have much of a voice.

It is so incredibly important for individuals like yourself, those with power and the ability to reach the masses, to take action and speak up.

I have been blogging during COVID-19 regarding how employers in general are treating their employees, both good and bad, and I will be adding a post surrounding you and this action.

Again, thank you. Good luck in your next steps!

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From: BRYAN WEDMORE (May 05 2020, at 07:52)

Thank you sir, coming from working class people, I have seen the decline of unionization and living wages and benefits decrease drastically from the time NAFTA was passed. We were sold out and it was their intention to crush unionization of workers and the living wages they demanded. Fast forward to your blog.It reaffirms everything I have seen over the past 20 to 30 years. I was blessed with the ability to work and learn so I am not part of the working class who have to bend to the demands of a master employer. Not everyone has this ability or opportunity. Thank you for making a stand in what has to be talked about if this country ever wants to see a middle class population. I have watched my home town die from factory closing. This brings drugs,crime and poverty. The effect on the humans view of this being the land of the free and the place where you can be anything you want is gone. The ruling class does not care. The only thing I see making change is the american people coming together, standing up to the powers that be and forcing change.I know the powers that be will never let this happen. Being a vet I morn for my grand kids and the land they will have to live in. Again thank you for what you are doing.

Bryan Wedmore

b.wedmore@comcast.net

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From: Heather (May 05 2020, at 07:53)

Tim, thank you, thank you, THANK YOU for your brave and difficult decision, and also for writing this. I'm sharing it with as many people as possible. And you WILL go on to bigger and better things!!!

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From: AmyH (May 05 2020, at 07:56)

Thanks for speaking out on this. Your comments on everything from the struggles of union organizing to rights depending on your level in the corporation to U.S. capitalism are spot on. I wish you the best of luck in the future. Thanks for being an integral part of the struggle.

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From: Rick Grant (May 05 2020, at 07:57)

Your actions and your reasons have cheered me immensely and I salute you as a person of honour.

In this age when personal responsibility, disregard for others, meanness and hatred seem to run rampant through our culture it is heart warming to see that some still hold to a personal code of honour.

Very well done, and all the the best.

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From: Max (May 05 2020, at 08:02)

Thank you!!

I will rethink my usage of amazon services.

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From: Rachel (May 05 2020, at 08:06)

Thank you Tim for standing up for Amazon employees!

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From: Sally Tucker (May 05 2020, at 08:12)

Everyone comments about having big balls. What would happen if everyone grew a set and quit at the same time?

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From: Denis Boudreau (May 05 2020, at 08:18)

We don't know one another. We'll probably never meet. But damn, I salute you for what you did and for your work ethics. You sir, are a decent human being. I've no doubt that you'll reposition yourself quickly. Best of luck and you are my inspiration today.

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From: Yolanda (May 05 2020, at 08:21)

Thank you for taking a stand and doing the right thing. Unfortunately, you seem to be one of few.

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From: Peniasi Qimaqima (May 05 2020, at 08:25)

Thank You Sir for enlightening us . You’re one of the Awesome guys. Capitalism is not for the masses.

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From: Irene (May 05 2020, at 08:27)

Dear Tim, Thanks so much for your bravery and refreshing attitude. I haven’t met or read of a younger generation person having the audacity to live by a set of values where money is not the main focus. I so appreciate your guts and hope you can will be a part of creating change in our run amuck capitalistic country. Hope to hear more from you. (BTW..I am a baby boomer)

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From: Dianne Lipkin (May 05 2020, at 08:35)

BRAVO. I applaud your actions.

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From: Jane Binner (May 05 2020, at 08:39)

Thank you for having a spine ... being a person of character.

I hope there comes accountability at some point.

I cannot stand these companies that put profit over people, that stifle voices, that treat of like replaceable grist.

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From: Mike C (May 05 2020, at 08:45)

Thank you for takinga brave stand based on personal morality and organizational ethics. Takes real "cojones" to walk away form millions of $$$.

You sir are an inspiration to all of us in leadership positions.

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From: Richard Clowdus (May 05 2020, at 08:48)

Thanks so much for your principled response and for sharing your story.

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From: Chris (May 05 2020, at 08:56)

First off, bravo to you! Thank you for standing up and using your online space to make this more public.

While I agree that the legislation you mention should be passed, I disagree that the best path forward is through legislation.

Personally, I have avoided buying from Amazon in any way that I can, for all of the reasons you cited in this post. I am letting my $ speak for me. THAT is what capitalism is...If we all did this more often, the 'evils' of capitalism would not be as devastating.

We will always be a dog chasing its tail if we rely primarily on government (and unfortunately, politicians) to create legislation to safeguard us. We need to use our moral compasses to do this for ourselves. We need to collectively be better as a society. Don't take the path of lease resistance, or what is convenient...we need to do what is right. If companies like Amazon are not doing the right thing, let's let our $ speak for us and choose to do business somewhere else!

Most of our current 'leadership' (and I use that term VERY loosely, for lack of a better word) within our governments are spineless and too self-serving to deserve the offices they hold. So, we need to spark-up, engage in and carry-out social movements/initiatives more...and some of these young people with big/idealistic views need to run for office and steer the ship in the right direction.

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From: Karma (May 05 2020, at 08:58)

Tim Bay Nobel Prize <3 6CK amazon

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From: Martin Kraetke (May 05 2020, at 09:01)

Thank you for your courage and honesty!

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From: Guy L (May 05 2020, at 09:05)

You are a true Canadian. You saw something that was unacceptable for us and you reacted as all Canadians do when facing extreme american capitalist behavior: put our values first. Keep safe and enjoy your very temporary vacation.

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From: Raj (May 05 2020, at 09:14)

Your courage is to be commended!! Bless you and hope you land in an organization worthy of you!

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From: bill bennett (May 05 2020, at 09:16)

Character is Destiny.

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From: Jeremy Z (May 05 2020, at 09:21)

A+ It's heartening to see someone stand up for their beliefs, especially when there is a real cost to doing so.

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From: Susan G. (May 05 2020, at 09:25)

They say your "gut" is where your heart meets your head. It seems you went with your gut, which I applaud.

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From: Fabian Wilson (May 05 2020, at 09:27)

Thanks you for coming forward on this issue. I think most people don’t have the will or fortitude to move out in the clear and make such declarations on the Big-Capatilist system that the world embraces today.

Our society values the Dollar way above humans today more than ever in history. Those at the forefront in the chain of “workers” has the lowest value to executives, no matter what industry you look at. Be it the healthcare system, the financial system or any organized work structure.

Those at the bottom of the ranks are seen as disposable like take-out- trays at the cafeteria. They has no moral, or ethical values when compared to the $ dollar sign. (Sad) how one human can look over another Human... if those at the top are still humans?

Exploitation is always at the forefront of those who wields power. Just a fish in the ocean do- the big fish always eat the small fish!

Your courage stands- it put you in a special category of Men- those who are willing to see injustice and call it like it is...

Thanks for coming forward! You’re a GIANT !

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From: Gyio, Gyio Gyio (May 05 2020, at 09:33)

No better feeling than being free. Fly high

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From: Bob (May 05 2020, at 09:33)

The system you are saying is toxic is the same on that made you wealthy enough to walk away from a very high paying job simply because something about it made you unhappy.

When you advocate that you should have been payed less throughout your career (more in line with Amazon warehouse workers) and then give away enough wealth correct that imbalance, it's sort of hard to take you seriously.

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From: AMW (May 05 2020, at 09:42)

Thank you for your transparency. This should serve as a wake up call for those of us who have become a bit of Amazon addicts over time but especially during the pandemic. I'm all for hard work but draw the line at taking advantage of people.

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From: Brian F (May 05 2020, at 09:52)

This was the Right thing to do.

Although you KNEW the kind of capitalistic, profits over people culture that Amazon and Bezos participated in BEFORE you joined the company - we are proud of you.

We all know that Capitalism in general promotes Profits Over People, unfortunately this will not change any time soon. But Amazon has repeatedly gone too far, for too long and enjoyed tremendous "profits" from it.

This stance you took is a great reflection not only on the People (the customers) who continue to use Amazons services which empowers them to then turn around and punish its distributors and works; but this shines a spot light on all the C-Suite executives too who have to show a great consciousness and responsibility of what's taking place - and then act to change it or be held equally accountable for crimes against humanity.

The profits you have reaped from Amazon I encourage to then give back and distribute some of them to those in need.

Thank you!

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From: Jan (May 05 2020, at 10:04)

Your action is admirable!

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From: linda gore (May 05 2020, at 10:04)

Thank you! I am old ! And I appreciate hearing from a young successful person who longs for and hopes for big business to work from a perspective of valuing and respecting all levels of worker and not just valuing profit. Stay strong and true.

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From: R. Erika Schafer (May 05 2020, at 10:12)

Tim, thank you for having morals and principles! I work in HR at a higher education institution. I started my career in HR at Caterpillar and left because it conflicted with my environmental principles. I want to start a blog for the working people. It's insane how employers keep people down. Would love to speak about this!

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From: Shilo (May 05 2020, at 10:18)

Tim, you're a hero! It's uncommon to encounter someone willing to stand up, speak up, and take action in the name of justice. It's even more rare to see someone make a sacrifice for others, I deeply appreciate your commitment to your values and your courage to uphold them. THANK YOU for taking a stand and for sharing this inside information so that others can better understand the situation. You're a true role model and I hope that life rewards you richly.

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From: PitBullCH (May 05 2020, at 10:25)

Tim - really good to see there’s still people out there willing to put ethics before money.

Well done, hope and suspect you will be employed fairly soon by a more socially responsible company.

@Amazon - reputation in tatters - your move.

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From: Jon (May 05 2020, at 10:28)

Thank you for modeling ethical capitalism and true moral leadership! I believe this is the future of consumer choice and I hope amazon changes this and allows you to return, with a promotion!

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From: Jay David (May 05 2020, at 10:36)

BRAVO! You are an example to every executive and person in the US. You are to be congratulated non-stop.

I hope this will be the beginning of necessary change in the corporate governance at Amazon. The lack of accountability, and integrity at Amazon is despicable.

I sincerely hope you have enough Amazon Stock to retire and live happily ever after for you and your family.

And that your next corporate position appreciates the integrity and honor you have displayed.

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From: Anonymous (May 05 2020, at 10:40)

Hi Tim,

I truly truly salute your courage and thank you for speaking out even as a member of the privileged class of people at Amazon. I worked in one of the warehouses in Canada before also recently quitting and I definitely agree with all the things you have said in this essay. Canada isn't as bad as the US but it is still dreadful. Newcomers to Canada being exploited day by day. Such a sad sad shame. I'm si glad leaving also allowed me breathe better.

Love and light mahn. Hope you find yourself working next at a more ethical company.

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From: Wenzday (May 05 2020, at 10:43)

How are warehouse workers "weak and getting weaker"? And how would you propose empowering them?

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From: Nancy Gendimenico (May 05 2020, at 10:49)

Tim -I hope you and Stacy Mitchell have connected. She is chipping away a little at a time to expose the damage at Amazon.

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From: Jennifer (May 05 2020, at 10:51)

It may seem a long way off, but these are the first steps towards change. A company with so little (if any, at all) ethic is truly doomed to fail. It is just a matter of time.

Tim, and all of those who were unfairly fired, will not be left out of this story in the books/movies/etc. to come.

I, for one, will not leave them out when I tell my children one day about 'the great rise and fall of amazon'.

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From: Lee (May 05 2020, at 10:52)

To anyone left at Amazon who doesn't like it's way of treating employees -other tech firms with bigger hearts welcome you.

To Jeff Bezos, find a way to make things so right that Tim Bray decides to come back. And welcome him back with open arms.

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From: Allison Edwards (May 05 2020, at 11:08)

THANK YOU!!!

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From: Sam (May 05 2020, at 11:08)

Without detracting from the rest of your post:

>I’m sure it’s a coincidence that every one of them is a person of color, a woman, or both. Right?

The net effect of political activism has been to show men and white people that if they speak up in their own interest, they are likely to be tarred and feathered in the name of diversity.

The logical outcome is that women and people of color feel they can speak up more, while men and white people feel more disenfranchised even if they have no actual power in the organization.

Instead your view this as a dynamic where the cure is more of the poison, because the situation can always be interpreted according to who was predecided to be the victim.

If the people in question were white men, would you think they must be particularly affected too? Cos I think you would be making the exact same point based on the complete opposite situation.

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From: Sebastian (May 05 2020, at 11:15)

This is the kind of forthright and courageous action that is horribly lacking in the tech industry. As a former union leaders, I remember warning young techies two decades ago that they would rue the day the voted against unionizing and surrendered collective bargaining and union rights to the fantasy notion that "we are all are agents."

EVERY industry eventually becomes a giant sweat shop that crushes individuals who have devoted years to the job and are planning their futures based on that job. Unions are the greatest force for workplace and worker well-being ever developed. Tim deserves great applause for this public action.

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From: Not at liberty to say (May 05 2020, at 11:18)

That is such a brave and honest thing to do.

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From: Cassie (May 05 2020, at 11:40)

Thank you for doing what is right. I have deactivated my Amazon subscription before for many related reasons, and while I did re-activate because frankly I needed to (in as much as I can "need" an entity like Amazon), I have since cancelled. I truly believe Amazon does not value human life or its own workforce. I am relieved to hear that AWS is at least humane, but the reasons why are likely what you yourself outlined. Thank you, again, for doing what is right. I wish you the best of luck and I am confident that any organization would be lucky to have you.

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From: Chad (May 05 2020, at 11:42)

Here are some more pressing issue that maybe you want to address since you are Social Justice Warrior.

1. The 2003 Iraq war

2. Income disparity caused by the Federal Reserve.

3. Global War on Terror (It's pretty much a farce)

4. The plight of Palestine.

You are not a hero, you are a rich white guy that stood up on a soap box and will get another job.

Your 15 minutes has expired.

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From: Dipali (May 05 2020, at 11:47)

Thank you for sharing. I cancelled my Amazon Prime account last night and applaud you.

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From: Doly (May 05 2020, at 12:02)

@Bill

First of all, it's painfully obvious from your comments that you've never done any job similar in any way to Amazon warehouse workers. If you had, it would immediately stand out to you how silly are some of your remarks.

>Have there been documented cases inside a warehouse, and are those numbers worse than staying at home and not fulfilling orders?

Have you actually bothered to check the evidence mentioned in the post, namely the YouTube video? Obviously not. Presumably because it would force you to deal with the emotional reality of it, which you obviously don't want to. You'd much better prefer to read some clinical report.

As somebody who has produced reports and had personal experience of the things I reported on, I can assure you that those that just read reports are profoundly ignorant. Even when the reports are done correctly, and they often aren't.

>You don't hear "I would like to stop working, but the government hasn't ordered me to yet."

You mean that you, personally, haven't heard that. I have heard this from workers in the UK.

>I surely wouldn't want to be working on a pre-industrial farm—like vast majority of people before the 1900s.

This takes the cherry. You, of course, must have a nice job that is clearly superior to working in a pre-industrial farm. I'm not entirely sure that the average Amazon warehouse job is really superior to working in a pre-industrial farm. For starters, pre-industrial farms weren't obsessed on productivity, and there were plenty of opportunities to rest. The main problem with pre-industrial farms is that they came with pre-industrial healthcare... but then, in the US many people can't afford industrial healthcare, so I'm not sure any of it is better.

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From: Linda DuPertuis (May 05 2020, at 12:09)

Good for you. Sometimes somebody has to do the right thing.

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From: Lee Levin (May 05 2020, at 12:16)

I always admired your strong moral code. Best of luck.

Lee

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From: Rick (May 05 2020, at 12:18)

"chickenshit" is an understatement - "murderous" might be more appropriate.

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From: sergio (May 05 2020, at 12:25)

i hope with all my heart your decision will not be forgotten, i am just afraid covid 19 will bring even more unfairness and inequality, just as the 2008 crisis.

Great respect!

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From: frank (May 05 2020, at 12:26)

Tim:

Congratulations! You are truly are a MAN FOR ALL SEASONS.(Sir Thomas More).A rarity!

How rare :How many American Generals have resigned over the misguided- misled polices of war after Sept 11 ;in my opinion the attack on Afghanistan was justified then it was morphed into an war for the control of oil

Even so Hitler -the epitome of evil only had about 4 attempts on his life ;my point being you act is truly an act of individual courage

Frank Lipsky Retired Physicist Ex USAF

Truth I'm biased ;my grandson worked at Amazon in Chattanooga to earn tuition money! His hobby weight lifting and he quit calling Amazon a slave shop

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From: Mary (May 05 2020, at 12:48)

Tim Bray showed INTEGRITY and I appreciate it.

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From: Rob Cottingham (May 05 2020, at 12:57)

Thank you for this. In times like these, it's reassuring to see someone taking such a principled stand for treating workers decently.

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From: Janelle (May 05 2020, at 13:03)

Tim - Thank you thank you thank you! Thank you - for your courage to stand by your morals, for using your platform and voice to support the Amazon warehouse workers whose voices are continually drowned out, for inspiring actions that are led with empathy and ethics. Wishing you the best!

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From: Diana Matthews (May 05 2020, at 13:06)

Excellent. I walked from an excellent job in the nursing home industry for the same reasons. Sometimes a crisis such as this pandemic reveals the deep darkness you knew existed but in such a blatant way you are unable to continue to dismiss as “business”. I, too, will not “serve or drink that poison”. Well done and best wishes. Sleeping at night is priceless.

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From: Jarda (May 05 2020, at 13:18)

Is it OK to translate this article for a Czech newspaper?

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From: Juan Camilo Munoz (May 05 2020, at 13:44)

Tim,

You are such a great person to have the courage to do such a impressive thing!To say no to this kind of job in AWS. Most of the people would just staying aside and watch.

Im pretty sure you will find a great opportunity soon.

Regards from Colombia South America.

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From: Matt Jones (May 05 2020, at 13:48)

Thank you for taking a stand. I feel like there are a lot of people out there that have power and influence but ignore those that don't. I wish you had a larger platform and could spread this message even further. My household gave up our Amazon account and refuse to order anything from Amazon. We're trying to convince our friends and family to do the same. It's small and I know my couple hundred bucks a year isn't crushing the empire, but I sleep well and contribute more to local shops because of it. Kudos to you, and best of luck in your future.

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From: Mare (May 05 2020, at 13:54)

Tim - First off, thank you for standing up for justice and doing the right thing. I have avoided buying from amazon for years (ever since "The Everything Store" came out) because I do not approve of how they treat their workers. [Full disclosure, I do subscribe to the Washington Post, and I have very mixed feelings about that.]

You say the media didn't cover the warehouse workers' stories, but I disagree: PBS did. Their Frontline documentary, "Amazon Empire" is where I first heard of Chris Smalls. And, sadly, your average american doesn't watch PBS.

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From: Doug Zacker (May 05 2020, at 14:00)

You have my highest admiration Tim. I too left a job on principle and gave up a lot in the process. I firmly believe that most people within large companies would like to see it run differently but say or do nothing to protect their own interests. Away from work they may believe they are all for workers' rights, universal healthcare, the environment, etc., but unless they do something when these things are at risk in their workplace, nothing will ever change and they are just hypocrites. Thank you for helping to make a difference or at least doing something that we all would hope ill make a difference.

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From: Edward M. (May 05 2020, at 14:08)

Thank you for using your platform for good. Your sacrifice (cool job, missed colleagues, compensation) will likely be forgotten, but, the seed will plant a tree and I hope that many more will follow in your steps.

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From: Richard Beck (May 05 2020, at 14:25)

Dear Tim,

Thank you so much for your bravery. If only your empathetic and compassionate and moral actions could be a motivator to others. I look at the stock Market today and it soaring like an Eagle, despite all the misery in our country. Big business will find a way to profit from misery Its gotten obscene and Most everyone I know feels powerless to have an impact.Thank you for you integrity.

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From: Amilynn Adams (May 05 2020, at 14:38)

I admire your integrity. I left NAFC (BFI3, February 12, 2020) for many reasons, but one of the primary drivers was an epiphany identical to yours. You have essentially raised the same issues that I tried to raise through my leadership chain of command. I tried to build my associates to achieve results. Instead the expected actions were to metaphorically beat associates to deliver results. I disagreed and couldn’t commit. So like you, I left.

Congratulations on preserving your integrity and maintaining your values as a leader. Capitalism has no moral compass and the company’s most recent actions have been appalling. RSUs will never fill the void left by selling your soul!

Sincerely,

Amilynn Adams

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From: Micah (May 05 2020, at 15:02)

> It treats its workers humanely, strives for work/life balance

You never really worked with any DCO techs, did you?

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From: Brenda (May 05 2020, at 15:15)

Tim,

I admire your thinking and your actions. You have inspired me to step up to bat for doing the right thing at least one more time each day. This week I risked Amazon scrutiny to get trademark protection restored for 3 sellers. I'm on the lookout for what I can do next.

Thank you!

- a 3P seller on Amazon

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From: Anonymous (May 05 2020, at 15:33)

Amazing! And thank you for setting a great example. I also, just left Amazon. It honestly ruins the soul and has a terrible work culture. It really brings out the worst in people.

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From: Intentionally Anonymous (AWS Support) (May 05 2020, at 15:38)

Hi Tim!!!! Thank you so much for becoming the standard-bearer of truth. This is the second time I’ve been proud to be an Amazonian. The first was before I started here.

I wanted to mention something you said, that AWS is largely an ethical organization, however the support organization is very much a sweatshop situation. Concierges and cloud support engineers are tracked for effectiveness and recruited from lower-income sources.

AWS illegally pulls H1Bs from India and China by the thousands that could have been sourced locally or retrained from our massive workforce.

Similar to the like warehouse workers, these employees have unreasonable demands on their time, including nonexistent HR guidelines on safe worker hours. Sure, they´re not walking 10 miles a day, but they are sometimes working 16 to 20 hours a day every single day.

This causes AWS to repeatedly abuse its power to “page” employees at any time of the day or night for any reason, often times being paged for things that are not emergencies. Internal services are the same, I have seen 1 person responsible for interacting with hundreds of internal customers a day for massive projects who are burned into the ground before they leave the company or are driven out on leave of absence.

AWS is not an inherently moral organization, they´re just more successful at hiding their shit than Amazon.com. They sell Rekognition to police forces with no Terms of Service to require humane usage of the services or third party auditing. Rest assured if prewar Hitler was a live today, Andy Jassy would be hustling teams around winning the entire contract.

The last thing I want to mention is that Amazon inherently will NOT protect workers from evil managers who abuse you and violate your rights. AWS and Amazon managers regularly put employees on performance improvement plans. There was a person who emailed the entire awsdevsupport after being placed on a PIP when a manager created and distributed false information to PIP him.

Again, thank you for this. This is a decade for workers.

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From: Markus Roemer (May 05 2020, at 16:00)

Thank you Tim - still the fearless leader!

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From: Ewa (May 05 2020, at 16:24)

Both a sad and hopeful story.

I like capitalism and I like social justice & support for the weak so they are given the chance to bounce back. Let's see if humans can figure out a way to marry the two for the greater good :)

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From: Eliana (May 05 2020, at 16:36)

You're my hero. It takes guts to do what you did, but you'll be better for it. All the best to you.

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From: Nancy Gendimenico (May 05 2020, at 16:59)

Tim -I hope you and Stacy Mitchell have connected. She is chipping away a little at a time to expose the damage at Amazon.

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From: Roxy (May 05 2020, at 18:10)

The world needs more coursge like yours. I think I sent you a linkedin reauest to connect and would love to work with you some day. It's great values and ethics we need. You will do great!

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From: Mark (May 05 2020, at 18:23)

I'm sorry for what you are feeling right now. That said, you wrote a very articulate, caring, and heartfelt open letter which would make anyone with a pulse and elementary level reading skills proud. I wish more people stood by their convictions and stood up for the under represented. I have no doubt that you will have better more exciting and fulfilling opportunities ahead.

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From: taylor m (May 05 2020, at 18:33)

I am a shopper but the chris smalls firing was too much for me as well. i havent shopped at amazon since. he wasnt asking for more money or longer breaks. He was simply asking a retail company for mask and gloves. He also thought that workers should be warned when a coworker became sick. the fact that amazon feels that this is too much soured me on them. I didnt make a scene I just stopped shopping with them. its a shame because my nephew works for amazon.

amazon has always broken the rules. from not collecting sales tax to allowing illegal things to be sold. but now its really putting profits before people.

P.S with the chris smalls firing they also were attempting to make him un-hirable. How disgusting.

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From: Rebecca Boschee (May 05 2020, at 19:27)

Tim- I hope that you are not doubting your decision. What you did was the most heroic action I have seen yet. Thank you for caring about the workers and giving them a voice. You did the right thing and hopefully this will really expose what Amazon has been doing to the workers. Personally, I canceled my prime years ago when an employee delivered a package to me at 9pm using her own car. These workers are not earning enough and they are busting their ass. Amazon is slavery in the 21st century.

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From: Raj (May 05 2020, at 19:51)

Your courage is to be commended!! Bless you and hope you land in an organization worthy of you!

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From: Debbie (May 05 2020, at 20:14)

I applaud you for this. I’m sure it wasn’t easy but it’s a testament to your conscience. Thank you for caring about the little people. I think this pandemic has opened a lot of people’s eyes and I truly hope accepting ill treatment from employers goes by the wayside as an after-effect. I have to admit I bristled when I read Naomi Klein’s name, though. That she’d be given a platform is disappointing. She is not a good person.

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From: Luke Tulysewski (May 05 2020, at 20:25)

Thank you Tim for not only taking an ethical stand but articulating it so well. I greatly support your views and admire your action in the face of significant consequences. We need a brave new world and that calls for good people, especially high profile ones, making brave choices. Thanks for being one of those people.

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From: Ricardo (May 05 2020, at 21:47)

Adiós Amazon. Hola Mundo!

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From: Stefan (May 05 2020, at 22:10)

I can say only one word ...

RESPECT!!

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From: Dirk Burgdorf (May 05 2020, at 23:17)

As you stated your incoming loss won't be live changing compared to a blue collar employee. But your statement might mean a lot to other people, thanks for that!

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From: Anton Okmyanskiy (May 06 2020, at 00:30)

I work/ed at AWS with Tim in Vancouver office. I salute you, Tim, for taking a moral stand with skin in the game.

My thoughts on your post here.

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/antonok_amazon-timbray-amazonhumanity-activity-6663529803632697344-4Zys

Just tried to ever slightly amplify your call for action for companies like Amazon to instil more humanity in their leadership principles and daily operations. It is totally doable and the right thing to do.

Of course, people can/should lobby governments to set the rules accordingly for all companies, but the test of ethical behavior is what you do when given a choice! So, moral leaders should leverage their privilege to rise above the race to the bottom and act with compassion.

Amazon is generally so well managed that if the top leadership makes this a goal, Amazon would absolutely be a shining example for others to follow. It is only a matter of will.

Enjoy your free time, Tim!

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From: Fabian Mueller (May 06 2020, at 00:56)

Thank you very much for your courage. Your heart is at the right place. I regret that this situation is a personal disadvantage for you, but I admire your courage. Unfortunately there are far too few people of your kind in this world. I hope that Amazon will be held accountable by society for this misconduct. Thank you for bringing this to our attention.

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From: Kathleen (May 06 2020, at 02:08)

You have helped grow my hope that we will escape toxic culture sooner rather than later.

I look forward to following your future endeavors. Thank you!

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From: Gunnar Djurberg (May 06 2020, at 04:51)

Well done. Not many people stick to their principles when it comes at a cost (even if they can afford it)

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From: sue (May 06 2020, at 05:24)

Many thanks for doing what is RIGHT, not many people do and what you have shown is courage which demands RESPECT.

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From: Mick. (May 06 2020, at 06:30)

Nice to see someone with morals and principles. My first Amazon purchase was in 1999, I will rethink my next Amazon purchases.

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From: Volker Naulin (May 06 2020, at 06:36)

Respect!

Good to see someone taking responsibility seriously!

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From: Massimo (May 06 2020, at 07:05)

Ti ringrazio per aver scelto secondo coscienza.

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From: Bill Christie (May 06 2020, at 08:00)

Thank you Tim,

Thank you for showing that technical people are not just mechanisms, but actual caring and aware people that want the work they do and the companies they work with mean something.

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From: Richard Pauli (May 06 2020, at 08:34)

Thank you for doing this - a heroic act both personal and universal.

Time to do the math. It's simple risk analysis - the near term threat is Covid19 and the mid and longer danvger is global warming. Just physical laws.

Ignoring and denying reality because of ideology or psychological avoidance just imperils everyone.

You have helped uncover the enormity of the challenge. Human equity and climate justice is a construct that must precede survival. All is education -- and lessons not learned, will be repeated.

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From: Steve W (May 06 2020, at 08:54)

Tim, so I applaud your standards. But more, I feel motivated to action. My thoughts are the only way to fight this is to provide alternatives (where possible) for services that are done in a more ethical way. I already had some thoughts on this and your article kind of pushed me over the edge. I'm still working on a model, but I feel there is room to create digital services that can be competitive , that everyone involved can earn a decent living. but not worry about becoming billionaires (or even multi millionaires) 'm thinking of the original Ben and Jerry's structure of pay differences. I know there are many hurdles to compete against the deep pockets of big tech companies. But without market place alternatives they don't have any reason to change.

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From: Jasson (May 06 2020, at 09:07)

Well done Tim. You made a contribution to society, but also just for yourself those million dollars will worth less than what you gain by doing this.

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From: Debbie (May 06 2020, at 09:29)

Thank you for being American. I did the same thing. Left a long time teaching position for administration lack of ethics. The longer you are gone the stronger you will be and the sadness will go down. You are brave and ethical.

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From: Jon Hall (May 06 2020, at 10:43)

Thanks Tim,

for standing tall!

What's our next step?

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From: Noah Carty (May 06 2020, at 11:29)

Good job standing up for what's right. Quitting is the only thing you can do to help, I pray Amazon gets it's cooperate head out of it's own butt and keeps it's workers safe first, like you have decided to do.

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From: MARI Wilson (May 06 2020, at 12:16)

You’re a hero! With morals. Thank you so very much for caring about the little guy. Sorry but Bezos & Co. are just another corporate set of greed bags...that without their employees wouldn’t HAVE a business. And of course in their self denial that they are racists or at the very least part of the systemic racism problem. This mentality sickens me.

But the people want their stuff. Lazy people just gotta get their stuff, as long as it is convenient FOR THEM. Many of whom are middle class worker bees themselves.

They have become the internet Wal-Mart. I will miss the great choices on Prime Video but less TV isn’t a bad thing. And buh-bye Alexa. I can get off my ass and look things up for myself.

And people wonder why we need unions. Smh.

Sorry for the long post and best wishes to you & yours!

Canceled

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From: ray hackinson (May 06 2020, at 13:07)

Shocked! Shocked that 21st century capitalism is the new scapegoat for oppresive behavior on the part of management.

It used to be 20th century capitalism then 19h century capitalism

The workers on the bottom of the totem pole will get the shaft.

This country was built on the platform of masters and slaves and while things might be better now, the overriding ethic is still there.

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From: Terry Craig (May 06 2020, at 13:37)

THANK YOU for standing up for what you believe in, and for helping to bring this issue to the public's attention in the process. You're my hero.

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From: Lee Evans (May 06 2020, at 14:47)

Reading this made me cry: with relief because some people with influence and power still have morals and ethics. With deep sadness, because I'm dealing with this at my own place of work right now.

Capitalism sucks. Greed, not compassion or charity or empathy, is rewarded.

Thank you for your courage, Tim Bray

Respectfully,

Lee Evans

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From: Aaron Jones (May 06 2020, at 16:19)

"because capitalism". what an incompetent statement. "because corporatism". you should know better.

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From: marita (May 06 2020, at 17:01)

Thank you for doing the right thing even though it came at a cost for you and your family. After reading the news I often wonder if anyone is brave enough to speak out and stand up for what is right. You are and you did. I have chills. Good luck. Thanks for restoring my faith today.

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From: Pity Add (May 06 2020, at 17:44)

THANK YOU SIR for stepping out of the upper echelons to support rank & file, & decency. Hearing that you lost $1M for doing so, I can see why such honorable behavior is so rare. I do think your talents, very much including your skill at authoring words for direct human consumption, will provide rewards to make up for losing those 24K golden handcuffs.

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From: Michael Annis (May 06 2020, at 18:29)

I have questions for Mr. Bray about Amazon's Connections system and their ethical hotline system. My guess is that, as a VP, he was probably aware of the sinister nature of the warehouse operations and their subordination of worker safety to productivity numbers for some time. The Delta BC facility had significant numbers of head injuries and lacerations but chose to cover them up at the same time as they were subverting WorkSafeBC and BC Department of Labour. Why now?

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From: Shanzi (May 06 2020, at 18:49)

It seems you have been brainwashed by SJWs.

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From: petit (May 06 2020, at 23:22)

Bravo pour votre courage !

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From: Vanessa (May 07 2020, at 00:27)

Thank you so much for your support and bravery! Truly inspirational! I'm so very proud to see leaders with good moral character and back bone existing in these spaces and using their voices to help others in need.

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From: Stephanie (May 07 2020, at 01:23)

All I can is that I still have faith in humanity after reading what you wrote.

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From: Finno Furre (May 07 2020, at 04:32)

I applaud your integrity!

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From: German (May 07 2020, at 06:20)

Muchas gracias. Siento mucha admiración y respeto por su decisión.

Necesitamos más líderes en tecnología como usted.

Mejores cosas vendrán.

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From: Manisha (May 07 2020, at 07:12)

Thank you for having a consious and standing up for human rights.

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From: Shalini (May 07 2020, at 08:35)

Thank you for standing up for what's right. It takes immense courage to do what you did and it sends a clear message about what's really going on in the company.

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From: Brian McGrane (May 07 2020, at 09:34)

Thank you for setting an ethical example!

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From: Peter (May 07 2020, at 09:44)

Thank you for standing to the rights of the little people/boots on the ground. Its amazing that Amazon being very profitable and doing extremely well put its workers at risk and ignoring basic safety to squeeze the blood from the stone. Good luck in your new career, hopefully others at Amazon will speak out versus thinking about their %

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From: Janice Poss (May 07 2020, at 11:19)

One can always find another job!! But conscience is a gift!! At least someone still has some values and ethics!! Robber barons eventually get taken down!! We can only hope!

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From: Elena Luna (May 07 2020, at 12:16)

Bravo for taking a stand even though it came with a financial loss. That shows integrity, something our country needs more of.

What is the solution moving forward? How can we as consumers make a difference as well? I am a customer and a stock holder. I love the convenience of Amazon but I am also compassionate to the well being of those that work there. Please keep us informed on this issue. Thank you. I wish you well.

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From: Nicole Rustad (May 07 2020, at 15:42)

It’s impressive when an executive leads with their conscience by putting ethics ahead of personal gain. Thank you for demonstrating publicly how to take a stand for people who are in a vulnerable position!

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From: Jamie Pearce (May 07 2020, at 16:28)

what else to say but bravo!sleep well as a decent human being as opposed to the unlovely human beings who are to frightened to have a conscience.

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From: Darin (May 07 2020, at 17:35)

Well done, you're a good person, we need more like you in the upper levels of corporations around the world.

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From: Tamara P. (May 08 2020, at 02:50)

I'm a long time customer I am disappointed and will be watching for Amazon's response to this and everything else. I hope to see them step up and do the right thing, or I will no longer be able to be a member.

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From: h (May 08 2020, at 05:17)

Thank you. I'd like to send an email because it feels like it has more weight, somewhow, but I hope even as a comment on your blog it will somehow be of some support. You made the right decision and it's rippling out to people like myself; it's a reminder that I want to stand by my values even if the consequences are unpleasant.

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From: anon (May 08 2020, at 06:43)

Chicken shit.

You could have stayed and hounded the crap out of the idiots who did that and eventually gotten fired yourself, AFTER MAKING A DIFFERENCE.

Instead, you do them a favor.

You're worse than them.

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From: Vanesa Ho (May 08 2020, at 07:07)

Thank you for sharing this and the names of the people who were wrongly dismissed. Kudos for taking a brave stance and standing up for what you believe in! It's inspirational, especially for working as a woman in the tech sector.

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From: Ginger Ambrose (May 08 2020, at 10:10)

Dear Tim -

As a fellow Canadian, I wish to say: "I'm so deeply proud of you"! You are a genuine HERO.

Eight years ago, I similarly left a very good corporate job in Vancouver to protest work environment & co-worker treatment brought on by a newly installed local manager. I knew the only way I could draw attention to the matter and involve our national management and the US corporate office was (as a high earner for them) to quit and explain in writing directly to the senior offices why I quit. Financially, it sure didn't do me any favors, but in my soul I knew it was the right and correct thing to do. In these situations, it is sometimes the only true voice we have.

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From: Paul Fernhout (May 08 2020, at 17:18)

Hi Tim. Thanks for your explanation of current circumstances at Amazon as you saw them and how that links to why you did what you did. Good luck with whatever you are on to next. I went to Princeton with Jeff. While I did not make this specifically about him, you might find of interest this video I made back in 2010:

"The Richest Man in the World: A parable about structural unemployment and a basic income" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p14bAe6AzhA

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From: Lucas (May 09 2020, at 03:31)

Congratulations for your courage and thank your heart, Tim!

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From: Pastor Michael-Vincent Crea (May 09 2020, at 09:47)

Dear Mr Bray, Peace!

I would like to thank U for being able to tell U own story, including painfully of the sadness, of Ur strength, courage and commitment of one’s convictions, addressing Amazon Corporation’s attitudes, atmosphere & antagonistic tactics and apathy or perhaps, pathetic position and posturing against the workers’ requests of realities of vital, safeguards of life and against death by CVD19, not only to themselves, their families, neighbors & society but to corporate bullying beyond the realm at any time but most of all, now, as Human Rights, indeed, are found, first & foremost, in each person having innately “Life, Liberty & Pursuit of Happiness,” from first breath out of our mother’s womb to the last breath before one’s tomb.

As a native Staten Islander, I’m concerned that the Amazon SI facility adjacent to the Kill (river in Dutch) Van Kull corridor has the highest carcinogenic contaminants & deaths by cancer in all of NYC as long documented with data by NYC Department of Health and Medical Examiners Office. Thus, along with residents, Amazon workers are given greater chances in such a toxic workplace environmentally situated environment that U and their voices of veracity, vitality & veracity ought not be receiving reprehensible retaliatory & repugnant re-actions by Amazon administration & authorities but rather, responsible responses to existing and emerging realities of the health, welfare, lives and livelihoods of those contributing to the Symphony of the Spirit & Songs sung straightforwardly a cappella or as mine in chorus: “Workers ARE oUr Wealth!”

Let the filthy rich start to clean up their own acts of putting profits before persons, families, neighbors and societies refusing to succumb enslaved into silence but rather rising with Human Rights demanding “Equal Justice Under Law”, “With Liberty & Justice for ALL,” & “Out of many, One,” not only engraved on every coin & currency but in the realization that there is no “economy”, local, national or global, without Humanity (a collective noun) & is without any minority but ONE = ALL!

One Love: Me, U, Urs, Each & All of Us!

Pastor Michael-Vincent Crea

One World Life Systems

“Serving One Love & Developing One World for the Common Good of Humanity”

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From: Alex (May 10 2020, at 04:29)

Thanks for doing this. I hope this will be a wake up call for Amazon and the likes

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From: Rick K (May 10 2020, at 16:42)

After hearing J Bezos say the best use of his wealth is in outer space, I quit Amazon Prime and I'll never spend a dime on him. Obvious to me the only way I can be effective, and I tell everyone he's a very bad guy.

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From: Anne (May 11 2020, at 08:27)

Thanks for standing up and saying that you want NO PART of what too rich Bezos does to the people that work there, and what he does to the planet and what he even does to sellers on his stupid site.

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From: Elizabeth (May 11 2020, at 19:00)

Kudos to you... oh, and we'd love to have you in our team! ;)

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From: Conor (May 12 2020, at 09:33)

Seems a bit off to jump ship at the time when there front line workers could do with someone up top who isn't a complete vulture but okay.

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From: E (May 14 2020, at 01:19)

I thought Amazon was my saving grace because it delivered to me in the middle of nowhere, had plenty of options, and kept delivery drivers employed. I believed it was a socially responsible company.I have since learned how wrong I was.

The workers were the ones who made magic happen for me. Non-essential items did not need to be sold in a Pandemic, certainly not at the risk of lives. I started reconsidering my beliefs. However, I thought it odd that the workers were striking but not calling for a boycott. Asking us not to buy extras, yet not joining up with the people crying boycott. This told me they needed their jobs and more importantly that they were scared to speak for their own safety.

Resigning as you did was a bold statement. I don't know whether it was a hard decision or not, but it became the right one. Not only did you quit without showing fear you confirmed what we all knew but did not want to believe.

Our country is dealing with the greatest crisis of my lifetime. People are treating each other exceptionally well except for a few extremists. I find myself surprised that virtually no public figures are doing anything other than making videos or throwing a smaller percentage of their income than I am at charities. The loudest talkers are proving to be hypocrites. This is a huge opportunity be of help and in ALL of America we have You, Bernie Sanders, and a few brave governors making that difference.

That's it. Even if a few more pop up (and I make up my mind about Bill Gates) less than TEN people in the US have made a definitive stand against profiteering and our flawed system. Many have had words, but there has been little action. YOU are one of those few people who declared their principles and acted with conviction. I would give you a Medal of Honor if it were in my power,you most certainly deserve it. Even if you just did it because you felt it was the right thing to do-that is exceptional and I am thankful for your example of true leadership.

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From: Jan (May 15 2020, at 08:44)

Thank you, Tim!

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From: nynevakyte (May 16 2020, at 23:16)

For all I know this guy was just waiting for the right time to retire, and there is undeniably an element of privilege to being able to choose to quit your job as a form of protest. But this man DID choose to use that privilege in a way that would support those who could not, and that is heroic no matter what other factors are in play.

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From: Liona (May 17 2020, at 03:55)

In our short lives, it’s amazing how people can lack any compassion to fellow humans. In the end nothing will matter because we all die. Not even your legacy. So it’s funny how some “leaders” fight for their images. Amazingly some just have no care but for their own profit, not realizing all that will go away just like any person living in a slum.

It’s great to leave a bold statement like a rainbow in the sky. People cheer for you and will inspire more to stand up for themselves. Because of your action, everyone sees compassion and therefore can breathe a little more easily.

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From: David Campbell (May 17 2020, at 15:47)

Thank-you for your interview on CBC, I sense a kindred spirit. Fundamental questions I have been asking over coffee chats are how many millions, billions; how much power does one need? You have elevated this conversation on how 21st Century capitalism is faltering in how it distributes capital and how capital flight to the .1% is accelerating and economic velocity is spiraling downward.

Ten years ago, I was hearing how Walmart was threatening the economy; and needing a new economic classification between monopoly and oligopoly. I have subsequently seen Amazon since being a much greater such threat. As much as I have admired the forward-looking stance of Amazon and other big tech and its willingness to invest for the long-term, I have seen how the resulting economic strength is becoming self-perpetuating.

You are correct. It is not a Jeff Bezos or Tesla problem. It is a big tech problem that is fundamentally rooted in a couple of truths: 1) the benefits of automation will accrue to those who own capital and can invest in tech; and 2) the decreasing leverage with the .1% of those workers who are not needed to accelerate tech is continuing to accelerate.

Even basic income guarantee (BIG) programs do not address that other edge of the sword, that is, what to do with the "useless class" whose opportunity to contribute to the advancement of civilization will continues to shrink.

My view of where our world economy needs to go is derived from Gene Rodenberry's vision of civilization in Star Trek. With no longer a need to accrue wealth or worry about where daily needs of life will come; the primary economic currency will shift from capital to the opportunity to contribute and innovate.

How we get there; how we move beyond our current system of capitalism consolidating capital with the .1% and the certain ensuing Malthusian resource conflicts is as much a question of the survival of civilization as is our environment or viral or bacterial pandemics.

You have answered for yourself a fundamental question of human greed; how much money or power do you need? I believe you are somewhat unique and that government will need to find a way to regulate. Failing that, my other ongoing fundamental question is "in what form will revolution take place?".

David Campbell

Mountain Grove, Ontario

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From: Tushar (May 20 2020, at 18:54)

This was a very brave step! I admire your courage.

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From: Christoph_K (May 22 2020, at 18:22)

I read this weeks ago, and thought to myself: You sure get a lot of attention now, I'll wait until that time is over.

Thank you, man. What you did is so cool. Or rather, why you did it.

I'm 11 years into the IT industry and left it in September and am now running a project in the travel industry to cut down aviation carbon emissions. And man, travel, with Corona, that is very ill-timed. But my heart tells me I just have to try it.

I felt uplifted when I read what you did and why. Yes, I am allowed to give up money/safety/whatever, too, out of principle, because integrity.

Stay healthy.

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From: Bill Crandall (May 26 2020, at 10:03)

Thank you and congratulations.

What might it take to create a worker-owned entity that would be a hub for sales in some similar way?

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From: Kimberly (May 29 2020, at 18:13)

Coward and a wimp

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From: SS (Jun 17 2020, at 07:19)

"Of course, its workers have power. The average pay is very high, and anyone who’s unhappy can walk across the street and get another job paying the same or better."

But now AWS is suing employees for walking across the street and getting another job.

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From: Justine (Aug 06 2020, at 08:23)

Tim you are my hero.

I was sacked by Amazon in a chickenshit move - however I take that as a badge of honour now. Seems if you get fired or quit, you must be one of the good guys :)

Thanks for having the balls to stand up to the weird culty business model they have created. And for speaking out about why.

I salute you!

Justine Clare (formerly of AWS Cambridge Amazon employee)

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