14,000 Disneyland employees approve strike as negotiations continue

July 23, 2024

Thousands of workers at Disney’s theme parks and resorts in California voted late Friday night for a possible strike as labor negotiations drag on. The strike was overwhelmingly approved, with nearly 99% of members who cast their votes agreeing with a union statement.

The election was held by a coalition of four unions representing 14,000 ride operators, store clerks, janitors, candy makers, ticket sellers, park attendants and other Disney employees.

Union leaders now have the option of calling a strike if they cannot negotiate a new collective agreement with Disney. Union leaders from both sides have been back at the negotiating table since Monday.

According to MousePlanet, Disney and the unions met on Monday, July 22 and Tuesday, July 23 to continue collective bargaining negotiations that have been ongoing since April. The unions stated that “a strike is always a last resort” and that they plan to return to the bargaining table on Monday in good faith.

Disney itself said in response to the strike authorization vote: “We deeply value the important role our employees play in creating unforgettable 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. 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. A strike is not planned and Disneyland Resort continues to welcome guests.”

In a statement to workers, the unions said: “If after two more days of negotiations, Disney is not prepared to agree to the offer you deserve, we will take the action we must take and for which you have overwhelmingly expressed your support.”

Depending on how negotiations go on Monday and Tuesday, there could be a call for a strike later this week.