Credits: NBC News
Four unions representing over 14,000 workers at Disney’s Southern California theme parks and resorts have overwhelmingly voted to authorize a strike, citing unfair labor practices during ongoing contract negotiations.
While the authorization does not guarantee an immediate strike, it signifies the workers’ readiness to walk out if a deal cannot be reached. This potential strike, if it occurs, would be the first at Disneyland in 40 years.
The unions did not disclose the number of employees who voted but reported that 99% of those who participated supported the strike authorization. “This vote shows that the Cast Members have had enough!” said Aaron Zarate, a candy maker at Disneyland and member of the workers’ bargaining committee.
The unions highlighted significant economic hardships faced by their members, including food and housing insecurity. Negotiations with Disney began on April 24, but progress has been slow.
Disneyland Resort spokesperson Jessica Good described the strike authorization as “not unusual” in the bargaining process, emphasizing that negotiations are scheduled for Monday and Tuesday. “We greatly appreciate the important roles our cast members play in creating memorable experiences for our guests, and we remain committed to reaching an agreement that focuses on what matters most to them while positioning Disneyland Resort for growth and job creation,” Good said.
The employees involved in the labor dispute include custodians, ride operators, candymakers, and merchandise clerks—essential workers at the theme park and resort complex, a cornerstone of Southern California’s tourism economy.
In June, nearly two months after entering contract negotiations, Disney workers filed unfair labor practice charges against the company. These charges, concerning over 675 workers, are currently under investigation by the National Labor Relations Board, an independent federal agency enforcing labor law.
The Disney Workers Rising Bargaining Committee accused Disney of engaging in unfair labor practices, including unlawful discipline, intimidation, and surveillance of union members exercising their right to wear union buttons at work. The union buttons feature a Mickey Mouse-style white glove raised in a fist.
Good responded by stating that the costumes cast members wear are “a critical part of enhancing the experience of our Disney show” and that anything distracting from the show, such as non-approved buttons, would be addressed by a leader.
In recent years, labor scholars have highlighted the economic struggles of employees at Disneyland and other major theme parks across the country, bringing public attention to the challenges these workers face.