Disneyland union files charges against Disney in Mickey button dispute

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As a long-time Disneyland visitor and someone who has always held a deep appreciation for the magic that is created by the dedicated cast members at the park, I find it disheartening to hear about the ongoing labor disputes between the entertainment giant and its employees.

A coalition of labor organizations representing thousands of Disneyland employees has filed unfair labor practice charges against Disney for allegedly “threatening to discipline” workers for wearing union pins depicting Mickey Mouse’s raised fist.

The Master Services Council, comprised of approximately 13,000 employees including custodians, ride operators, candy makers, and merchandise clerks at Anaheim’s amusement park, accused Disney on Tuesday of breaking the law by punishing, intimidating, and monitoring workers for “expressing their union support through button wear” during contract talks with Disney based in Burbank.

At Disneyland Resort, representatives, or “cast members,” are required to wear only buttons and pins that match their costumes while on duty to ensure an uninterrupted visual experience for our visitors. (Disneyland Resort spokesperson Jessica Good’s statement to The Times on Thursday)

The union argues that putting on these work badges is a valid union practice, allowing Disney to neither discipline nor penalize their staff members for flouting the dress code, irrespective of the nature of their uniforms or the frequency of their contact with customers.

A Disney representative explained that managers have been requesting employees to take off non-approved accessories at work. The company policy is to issue verbal warnings first for any repeated infractions leading to formal disciplinary actions. Fewer than a handful of such warnings have been implemented thus far.

According to the Master Services Council’s claim, over 550 employees were monitored, made uncomfortable, and reprimanded for wearing badges. These employees attached the symbols as a sign of unity during their continuing contract negotiations.

Starting on April 24, negotiations took place between the unions and the company. The Master Services Council agreement is set to expire this coming weekend. For the park employees, wages are a major concern, expressing that their financial situation is quite challenging.

Michi Cordell, an apprentice of the Fairy Godmother at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique in Disneyland, stated, “For months, our team members have been negotiating for a reasonable contract, as we believe we deserve better compensation. However, instead of addressing our concerns, the company has been focusing on disciplining cast members for asserting their rights.”

“Unfair labor practices at Disney are obstructing our goal of obtaining a fair contract. It’s essential that Disney is held responsible and stopped from making further threats against us, the dedicated cast members who create magical experiences for guests every day.”

Within a mere weeks of Disneyland’s character entertainers deciding to join the Actors’ Equity Association through a union vote, supervised by the National Labor Relations Board, the accusations were brought forth.

I’m an advocate for these hardworking individuals who bring magic to life at Disneyland Resort. They embody the roles of our cherished heroes, villains, fairies, cartoon characters, princes, and princesses, engaging with guests on parade floats, signing autographs, taking photos, and putting on unforgettable shows. Now, they’re asking for better compensation, enhanced health and safety regulations, flexible work arrangements, and increased participation in company discussions.

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2024-07-18 22:18