In a report from the New York Times, it looks like leadership in the Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products division wanted Disney to publically take a stance on the “Don’t Say Gay” bill in Florida but were rejected.
The report names newly appointed PR chief Geoff Morrell as one of the voices that decided that working behind the scenes was a smarter move than taking a public stance. That guidance clearly backfired and Disney is now in its third week of controversy and apologies.
Unnamed leadership from the Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products division apparently urged Disney to add their name to a long list of companies that were publically against the Florida bill. Leadership reportedly wanted Disney to sign the Human Rights Campaign letter before Chapek sent a company-wide email in which the CEO said that Disney would not be denouncing the bill. A few days later, Chapek would apologize.
Since then, Disney has taken quite a public stance in opposition to the “Don’t Say Gay” bill and similar legislation in other states. Earlier today, the Disney Parks division was one of the many branches of the company that provided a unified front in support of the LGBTQIA+ community ahead of a scheduled walkout of employees.
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!