Magic in the Balance: Disneyland Workers Authorize Strike

A Show of Solidarity

A coalition of four unions, including those representing 14,000 Disney employees—ride operators, store clerks, custodians, candy makers, ticket takers, and parking attendants—organized the vote. Union leaders emphasized that this vote was a powerful message to Disney about the workers’ unity and determination.

“We make Disneyland the place for family vacations, birthdays, and celebrations. We make the theme parks’ profits and the magic you find across the resort. But instead of rewarding our hard work and dedication, Disney is intimidating, surveilling, and unlawfully disciplining members, harming our negotiations and our ability to get the contract we deserve,” the bargaining committee stated on Friday.

The Heart of the Issue

The core issues at the negotiating table include wage increases, safety measures, attendance policies, and other benefits. “I am worried as a future mom for the family I’m creating right now,” Elizabeth Gonzalez, a custodial cast member, expressed. “Disney can’t call themselves a family-friendly company while so many cast members and their families are struggling.”

Union members have been talking with Disney since April and are seeking to address these pressing concerns.

A Rallying Cry

The authorization vote followed a rally earlier this week at the Disneyland Resort entrance, where workers held signs with slogans like “Mickey would want fair pay!” The demonstration marked Disneyland’s 69th anniversary and was a powerful visual of the workers’ solidarity and resolve.

Among the rally participants was Cynthia Carranza, an overnight custodial worker at Disneyland. She shared her experience of being evicted and living in her car while working three jobs. “We are the people that create the magic in the park,” Carranza said. “We are willing to do whatever it takes to move our contracts, to get respected, to earn a livable wage, to be valued.”

The Broader Implications

A potential strike could significantly impact Disneyland and the theme park industry. Dennis Speigel, founder and chief executive of International Theme Park Services, noted that a strike during the peak summer season would be catastrophic for Disney, disrupting millions of visitors and affecting hotel and airline reservations.

“Disney would be short 14,000-plus cast members, which would be a massive disruption,” Speigel said. “I’m sure everybody within the Disney organization is putting pencil to paper and seeing how they can do everything they can to avoid this.”

The last major Disneyland strike lasted for 22 days in 1984. Disney Workers Rising, the coalition leading the current negotiations, remains hopeful that a strike can be avoided. 

Disney’s Response

Disneyland Resort has expressed appreciation for the cast members’ roles and remains committed to reaching an agreement. “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,” the company said in a statement.

Disney added that the strike authorization is a standard part of the negotiation process and reassured guests that the resort continues to operate as usual.

What This Means for Disneyland Visitors

The potential for a strike at Disneyland comes at a crucial time for visitors planning their trips to the "happiest place on earth." Here are some key points for guests to consider:

• Potential disruptions: If a strike is called, Disneyland may face significant operational challenges. With over 14,000 workers potentially walking out, the park could experience delays in ride operations, longer lines, and reduced staffing in shops and restaurants
• Impact on experience: The immersive experience Disneyland is known for could be affected. With many cast members integral to the daily operations and interactions that make the park special, visitors might find their experience lacking the usual Disney magic
• Visitor adjustments: Guests planning trips during the negotiation period should stay updated. Following news updates and checking Disneyland's official communications can help visitors make informed decisions about their visit
• Possible delays and cancellations: A strike could delay or cancel planned events, shows, and parades. Visitors should be prepared for potential itinerary changes and have backup plans
• Support and solidarity: Many Disney enthusiasts and visitors may choose to show their support for the cast members' demands for fair wages and better working conditions. This solidarity could manifest in various ways, from wearing supportive gear to participating in peaceful demonstrations

Despite the serious nature of the negotiations, Disneyland remains a place of magic and joy. Visitors planning their trips can still look forward to the enchanting experiences that Disney is known for. As negotiations continue, the hope is that both sides will reach a fair agreement, ensuring that the cast members who bring Disney’s magic to life are fairly compensated and valued.

In the meantime, visitors can enjoy the new attractions and experiences at the park, confident that the dedicated cast members are committed to making their visit as magical as ever. So, while the negotiations might be ongoing, the magic of Disneyland continues to shine, promising unforgettable memories for all who step through its gates.