An overwhelming majority of Disneyland Cast Members have voted to authorize a strike, citing unfair labor practices by Disneyland. The vote to authorize a strike was passed by an astonishing 99%. Keep in mind that the vote to authorize a strike is not a strike. The Disney Workers Rising movement says that the vote “allows us to take action if Disney continues to silence cast members and prevent us from getting the contract we deserve”.
According to a social media post, Disney and the Union will return to the bargaining table this upcoming Monday and Tuesday to try and reach an agreement. The union has alleged more than 650 labor violations against Disney since the spring. The union calls strike actions “a last resort”.
So, how did we get here? The 14,000 workers of Disney’s largest bargaining unit in California – represent a diverse set of classifications from custodians and ride operators to candy makers and merchandise clerks – entered into negotiations with the company on April 24, 2024, and are fighting for fair wages, a fair attendance policy, seniority increases and safe parks for cast members and guests.
In June, Disney cast members announced that they filed unfair labor practice charges against Disney on behalf of 14,000 workers at the resort for unlawful discipline, intimidation, and surveillance of union members exercising their right to wear union buttons at work. The charges relate to over 675 cast members whom the Unions maintain have been intimidated, surveilled, and disciplined for wearing union buttons in support of their contract campaign. The charges are currently being investigated by the National Labor Relations Board.
The contract for cast members at Disneyland expired on June 16, 2024. The contract for Disney California Adventure and Downtown Disney cast members expires September 30, 2024.
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!