In a move aimed at addressing concerns regarding safety conditions and scheduling policies, the Actors' Equity Association is seeking to represent the performers, character actors, and support staff at Disneyland in Anaheim, California. This unionizing effort comes as a means to ensure that the individuals who bring beloved characters to life are provided with fair treatment and support.
Unlike other employees at Disneyland, the entertainment performers responsible for enchanting parades, meet-and-greets, and interactive experiences have not been unionized. The Actors' Equity Association, known for representing live theatrical performance workers in various capacities, announced its campaign to support these performers on Tuesday.
Kate Shindle, President of the Actors' Equity Association, recognizes the significant contribution of these performance staff to the success of Disneyland. Their talent and dedication attract millions of guests to the parks each year. Shindle emphasizes that the performers are not only committed to their roles but also to the values of the Walt Disney Company.
The proposed union, aptly named 'Magic United,' intends to address several reported concerns raised by performing staff. These concerns include issues relating to costuming, stable scheduling, and visitor interactions. By organizing under a union, performers hope to advocate for their wellbeing and secure improved working conditions.
One of the key aspects that the union hopes to tackle is the reported difficulties performers face with costumes. This includes instances where they are asked to wear tights and makeup that do not match their skin tone. By unifying their voices through the Actors' Equity Association, these performers seek to ensure that their needs and concerns are heard and addressed.
Organizers have already begun distributing union authorization cards to Disneyland employees, signaling the start of the unionization process. Once a majority of these cards are signed and returned, the group can then seek voluntary recognition from Disney Resort Entertainment. This alternative approach allows for a confidential vote that respects the individual choices of the employees.
Disneyland officials responded to the unionization efforts by stating that they believe all cast members deserve access to information and the opportunity for a fair vote. They emphasize that respecting individual choices is important in this process.
Interestingly, these efforts to unionize come on the heels of Disney's report of better-than-expected fiscal first-quarter earnings. Despite lower attendance at its Florida theme parks, the company's experiences division saw a 7% increase in revenue. Both Disneyland Resort and Disney's California Adventure generated more revenue than the previous quarter, signaling increased guest spending within the parks.
It is worth noting that the Actors' Equity Association has a history of advocating for performer rights, extending its efforts beyond Disney. Last year, the association expanded its initiatives to protect the labor rights of Los Angeles planetarium lecturers and strippers working in LA clubs.
As the unionization process unfolds, it remains to be seen how it will impact the experiences of the performers at Disneyland and the overall dynamics of the park. However, this move highlights the ongoing conversation around fair treatment, safety, and working conditions within the entertainment industry.
