Disneyland unions overwhelmingly vote to strike – Orange County Register

July 20, 2024

Disneyland employees and union supporters gather outside the theme park’s entrance on Harbor Boulevard in Anaheim, Calif., on Wednesday, July 17, 2024. Ride operators, candy makers and ticket sellers are fighting for a raise ahead of a planned strike vote on Friday. (Photo by Jeff Gritchen, Orange County Register/SCNG)

Disneyland’s largest union coalition voted overwhelmingly to strike on Friday, July 19, as Disney negotiators and union representatives prepare to return to the bargaining table.

In an election by the Master Services Council, which represents 14,000 Disneyland employees from four unions, union members voted 99 percent to authorize a strike.

“Disney can no longer silence cast members,” said a statement from the Disney Workers Rising Bargaining Committee. “We are ready to take action.”

A strike date has not yet been set and the Disneyland Resort is still welcoming visitors, according to Disneyland officials.

Disney negotiators and union representatives are scheduled to meet again on Monday and Tuesday, July 22 and 23.

“We deeply value the important role our employees play in creating memorable experiences for our guests and remain committed to reaching an agreement that focuses on what matters most to them while positioning Disneyland Resort for growth and job creation,” Disneyland officials said. “The Master Services Council’s strike authorization is not unusual as part of a bargaining process and we look forward to continuing discussions at upcoming meetings on Monday, July 22 and Tuesday, July 23.”

It is unlikely that a strike will be called while the two sides are still negotiating, but a walkout could occur at any time after a positive vote.

Union members chanted “Stop it” during a rally outside the entrance to Disneyland on Wednesday, July 17, which organizers said attracted more than 1,000 protesters.

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The union coalition, which has been negotiating a new contract with Disney since April, represents ride operators, store employees, janitors, candy makers, ticket sellers, parking attendants, tram drivers and other “cast members” (as the employees are called in Disney jargon).

The contract with Disneyland, which covers about 9,000 employees, expired on June 16. The contracts with Disney California Adventure and Downtown Disney, which cover about 5,000 employees, expire on September 30.

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According to Disneyland officials, the Master Services Council refused to renew the contract after the Disneyland contract expired.