Disneyland workers in US threaten strike action over wages, treatment
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Disney employees rally outside the main entrance of Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, on July 17, 2024.
PHOTO: REUTERS
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ANAHEIM - More than 200 Disneyland Resort employees protested outside the world-famous California theme parks on July 17, calling for better wages and denouncing alleged anti-union practices by the company ahead of a looming strike vote.
Featuring workers in costumes from the parks’ Indiana Jones and Star Wars themed rides, among others, the rally was organised by unions representing some 14,000 Disneyland employees, from rollercoaster operators to candy makers.
“Mickey would want fair pay” and “Disney, don’t be the villain” were among slogans on the signs being carried at the march in Anaheim, near Los Angeles.
“We deserve fair wages,” said 44-year-old Disneyland employee Ginny Cristales.
“A strike is our last resort, that we’re not wanting to do. But if Disney doesn’t comply and give us what we need, then we’re all ready.”
Disney has been in negotiations since April with the four California unions representing its park employees.
The talks have so far yielded nothing, and unions accuse the so-called “Happiest Place in the World” of intimidating employees.
It is claimed that Disney has reprimanded and issued warnings to more than 500 employees for wearing a union pin featuring an image of Mickey Mouse’s glove clenched into a fist.
“Last week, I saw a manager telling one of the cast members to remove her badge. He told her that it will be on her record card,” said Ms Cristales.
“She was stressed and she got scared.”
“Mickey would want fair pay” and “Disney, don’t be the villain” were among slogans on the signs being carried.
PHOTO: REUTERS
The allegations have prompted an investigation by the National Labour Relations Board.
Disney has said the union buttons violate its “Disney Look” dress code.
Employees will vote on whether to authorise a strike on July 19. If the action is approved, unions will then decide on its terms and duration.
Contract talks with Disney are set for July 22 to 23.
“We make the magic”
In the wake of 2023’s devastating strikes by Hollywood actors and writers,
Employees at the Disneyland resort – comprising the Disneyland and Disney California Adventure theme parks – have not gone on strike since 1984, according to the LA Times.
But Ms Cristales, a mother of four, said her US$2,800 (S$3,750) monthly wage does not even cover her family’s rent.
“We make the magic, they make the money,” went one of the chants heard on July 17, as passing cars honked in support.
“Disney will invest US$2 billion in its park but refuses to pay workers a living wage” read a slogan on a protester’s T-shirt.
More than 200 Disneyland Resort employees protested calling for better wages and denouncing alleged anti-union practices by the company.
PHOTO: AFP
Protesters marched to the park’s perimeter, where they tried to set up for speeches, but were told by security to move to a car park some 182m away.
“With today’s rally, we continue to be focused on the well-being of our guests and cast members,” said Disney in a statement on July 17.
“We remain committed to the upcoming meetings on July 22 to 23 and reaching an agreement with Master Services that focuses on what matters most to cast members, positions Disneyland Resort for growth and job creation and enables us to continue delivering incredible guest experiences.” AFP
