ANAHEIM, California – Disneyland workers, including those who portray iconic characters like Mickey Mouse and Cinderella, are looking to unionize to improve working conditions and safety standards. The employees are seeking to be represented by the Actors’ Equity Association, which currently represents workers in live theatrical performance.
The push for unionization comes as workers at Disneyland aim for better safety conditions and scheduling policies. Kate Shindle, President of Actors’ Equity Association, emphasized the dedication of Disney workers to the company’s values and expressed the expectation for fair pay and prioritization of health and safety.
Under federal law, if the workers vote in favor of unionizing, Disney will be required to negotiate a contract with Equity’s representatives at the bargaining table. The union represents over 51,000 professional actors and stage managers.
In addition to performers, the bargaining unit also includes hosts, trainers, and other support roles at Disneyland and Disney California Adventure. The move to unionize could potentially impact more than 1,700 performers at the California theme parks.
The workers’ push for better working conditions also comes amidst accusations that Disneyland does not pay its workers enough to live in Southern California, despite the company’s substantial profits. Last year, Disney was embroiled in a dispute with performers demanding higher pay and protection against the use of artificial intelligence during a 118-day strike organized by SAG-AFTRA.