Performers File Petition to Form Labor Union in Disneyland
Cast members at Disneyland Resort, including those who portray Disney characters, character actors, and supporting staff, are seeking to form a labor union. On Wednesday, they filed a petition with the National Labor Relations Board to hold a vote. Over two-thirds of the roughly 1,700 eligible workers signed the petition, with a vote expected in May or June.
Related – Union Representation Coming for 1,700 Disneyland Characters and Parades Cast Members in Disneyland
During a press conference held in Anaheim, California, the heart of Disneyland Resort, workers announced their intention to unionize and petitioned The Walt Disney Co. for recognition of their newly formed union, “Magic United.”
While expressing their passion for creating magical memories for park visitors, several workers voiced concerns. These included the recent return of character hugging after the pandemic, ongoing challenges like costume-related injuries, unpredictable scheduling, and a lack of clear communication from management.
While unions exist for the majority of Disneyland Resort’s 35,000+ workers, character performers and parade cast members announced their intent to unionize in February. They’re seeking representation by the Actors’ Equity Association, the same union that advocates for theatrical performers at Disney’s Florida theme parks.
In a statement Wednesday, Disney officials said: “We support our cast members’ right to a confidential vote that recognizes their individual choices.”
President of Actors’ Equity, Kate Shindle, believes the California workers would win the election through the NLRB, the federal agency that protects workers’ rights to organize. “They just want to be paid fairly, to have a more humane scheduling system, to know that they are safe on the job, to have clear and respectful communication at work.” she said.
What do you think of another labor union coming to Disneyland?
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