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SpartanNash Truck Drivers Protest Restroom Policy at Columbus Distribution Center
Teamsters say policy change bars predominantly Black drivers from using indoor facilities
Mar. 16, 2026 at 10:03pm
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Truck drivers who deliver food to Fort Benning held a protest outside the SpartanNash distribution center in Columbus, Georgia, saying a recent policy change bars them, who are predominantly African American, from using indoor restrooms while the company's internal workforce is described as predominantly white. SpartanNash has placed portable toilets outside for driver use, which the drivers say does not provide adequate cleaning facilities.
Why it matters
This incident highlights concerns about potential racial discrimination in the workplace and the importance of ensuring equal access to basic facilities for all employees, regardless of their race or position within the company.
The details
The protest was organized by the Teamsters union. Union and driver representatives say the new policy prohibits drivers from entering the building to use the restroom. SpartanNash has responded by stating they are actively working to ensure the distribution center is well maintained and deny allegations related to discrimination, while also continuing conversations with the union to come to a resolution.
- The protest was held on March 16, 2026.
The players
SpartanNash
A food distribution company that operates the distribution center in Columbus, Georgia where the protest took place.
Teamsters
A labor union that organized the protest and is representing the truck drivers in negotiations with SpartanNash.
Donnie Wilson
A SpartanNash truck driver who expressed feeling "less of a person" due to the new restroom policy.
Chuck Stiles
A Teamsters representative who stated the union's core demand is to have the right for drivers to use the restroom.
What they’re saying
“It makes me feel less of a person in their eyes in there. I'm trying not to get discouraged because the world is not like that and I'm hoping there will be changes that the company makes soon. So everyone can work together how it's supposed to be.”
— Donnie Wilson, SpartanNash Truck Driver
“We simply want to have the right to use a restroom. It's sad it's 2026 we are out here in this street trying to get that message out. But that's the message we are going to send SpartanNash.”
— Chuck Stiles, Teamsters Representative
What’s next
Union officials said if a resolution cannot be reached with the company, they are prepared to contact state representatives or members of Congress.
The takeaway
This incident highlights the ongoing need to address issues of racial discrimination and ensure equitable access to basic facilities for all employees, regardless of their race or position within a company. It underscores the importance of open dialogue and a willingness to find mutually satisfactory solutions between employers and workers.
