Actors’ Equity Union Calls For Walt Disney World to Delay Reopening. With a record breaking increase in COVID-19 cases in Florida overnight, it comes as no surprise that many Cast Members are fearful of returning to work “too soon” and catching the virus from guests and co-workers. The Actors’ Equity Association is verbally speaking out against the Disney Parks decision to postpone opening for Disneyland, but refusing to postpone the re-opening date for Walt Disney World Resort despite the upward track of COVID-19 cases in Florida.
“If Disneyland has postponed, it is unclear how Walt Disney World can responsibly move toward reopening when coronavirus cases are much worse in Florida,” shared Mary McColl, the executive director of Actors’ Equity Association. “For weeks, we have made it clear to Disney that testing is a fundamental part of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for everyone, from the guests to the cast.”
McColl continued, “It is deeply disturbing that while coronavirus cases in Florida surge, Disney is refusing to provide regular testing to one of the few groups of workers in the park who by the very nature of their jobs, cannot use personal protective equipment. Now is the time for Disney to pause, focus on the science and put the safety of their actors and stage managers first by making regular testing available.”
The magic is returning. Read a message from Josh D’Amaro regarding our Disney parks and experiences around the world. https://t.co/YjTECaKZh8 pic.twitter.com/5t2naFeLEs
— Disney Parks (@DisneyParks) June 10, 2020
Though, the union only speaks professionally for entertainers and performers who work at Walt Disney World Resort, their concern stems to other Cast Members within the company as well. A primary concern being that performers and entertainers will not be able to wear proper PPE while performing for guests.
Disney Parks had announced that Disneyland would re-open on it’s opening day anniversary, July 17th, but as cases rose in California, Disneyland officials shared that the park would not re-open as planned and a new date would be determined at a later time. Be sure to check back here at Chip and Co. for updates and all things Disney Parks!
Featured Photo Credit: Walt Disney World
Source: Deadline
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