UnionAID and the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions (NZCTU) are excited to host the New Zealand Premiere of UNION - 2024 Sundance Festival Winner of the U.S. Documentary Special Jury Award for the Art of Change

About UNION: The Amazon Labor Union (ALU) — a group of current and former Amazon workers in New York City’s Staten Island — takes on one of the world’s largest and most powerful companies in the fight to unionise. Chronicling the historic efforts of the ALU, UNION is an intimate and surprising story of dogged determination, unorthodox tactics, and speaking up despite David vs. Goliath odds.

Capturing up-close, in-the-trenches moments with the upstart labour union leaders — including the charismatic Chris Smalls — as they try to build support for their movement on their own terms, filmmakers Brett Story and Stephen Maing bear witness to the realities of labour organising in the United States — challenging at best; near-impossible when facing the unlimited resources and influence of a corporate giant. They track exhilarating victories and demoralizing setbacks along the way, but foremost spotlight the far-reaching ability of collective action to inspire hope and bring self-determination to workers who’ve long felt disenfranchised and powerless.

All proceeds will go to support UnionAID’s project with Samoa First Union, funding a Workers Advice Centre in Apia, Samoa. The Workers Advice Centre supports low-paid workers, including Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) workers and community members who seek advice on employment-related issues. The centre’s mission is to provide a comprehensive support system addressing various aspects of employment, particularly for those preparing to work in New Zealand and Australia, and needing guidance on their rights and entitlements.