Disneyland employee explains why she’s ready to strike – NBC Los Angeles

As thousands of Disneyland employees continue to negotiate with the company over a variety of issues, including pay increases, and the potential for a strike, a longtime employee explained Monday why she and her colleagues are preparing to walk out of work.

Coleen Palmer has worked in the theme park’s gift shops for 37 years. She says that while she loves her job, she is finding it increasingly difficult to afford things on her salary, including the products she sells.

“I love being around kids. I see what it does to them. That’s what I enjoy, too,” Palmer said. “I still want to know that I don’t have to worry about what I’m going to have to give up this month to pay the rent.”

Despite working for the company for nearly four decades, Palmer says she earns only about $23 an hour, barely above the highest starting wage of less than $20 an hour.

This inequality is at the heart of union demands, which include higher wages, increased seniority bonuses and more sick days.

“We are desperate to reach an agreement with the company this week, but if they are not willing to meet us halfway at the bargaining table, we will have to do what it takes,” said Jenna Thompson of UFCW 324, one of the unions involved in the negotiations.

If this strike actually takes place, it would be the largest labor strike at Disneyland since the 1980s.

Many visitors, like Sehyaabeah Mayu of Fresno, said they support the workers’ cause.

“I really think they go out of their way to make people feel welcome because it’s the happiest place in the world,” commented Mayu. “I think they should be compensated for that.”

The Disneyland Resort said in a statement that it values ​​its employees and is “committed to reaching an agreement that focuses on what matters most to them while positioning the Disneyland Resort for growth and job creation.”

As negotiations continue, workers like Palmer hope to see recognition for their critical role in creating the Disney magic.

“We have to make it clear to the companies that we make them what they are. We are the ones who bring in the money,” Palmer stressed. “Without us, guests from all over the world would not have the experience they have.”