With yesterday’s news that The Walt Disney Company would require all salaried and non-union hourly employees to get vaccinated, the attention now turns to the unions that represent a massive portion of theme park workers.
In a message to Cast Members, Disney said that they have “begun conversations [about mandatory COVID-19 vaccines] with the unions representing our employees”.
A collection of different trade unions will meet with Disney next week, but Unite Here Local 362 president Eric Clinton said that union members support everyone getting the vaccine (via Orlando Sentinel).
Clinton said that part of the discussions with Disney will be how Cast Members are accommodated who claim medical and religious exemptions.
In addition to being an industry leader on mandating vaccines, Disney has also separated itself from other local theme park operators such as Universal Orlando and SeaWorld by mandating face masks for all guests in indoor locations at its theme parks and resorts. Both Universal Orlando and SeaWorld are taking the softer stance of “recommending” their patrons wear a face mask inside, but not mandating it.
As always, keep checking back with us here at BlogMickey.com as we continue to bring you the latest news, photos, and info from around the Disney Parks!