Disney shared in an announcement today that the company will be meeting with Cast Member and employee unions in order to reach an agreement in light of theme park closures.
We shared last month that unions representing Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort Cast Members wrote letters to The Walt Disney Company demanding answers regarding Disney’s plan to compensate workers beyond March 31. These unions were calling upon Disney to pay Cast Members through the theme park shutdowns.
“As part of our commitment to our collective bargaining agreements we will be setting up meetings today with the unions.”
Jeffrey Epstein at Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products also stated in an email sent to Disney Parks, Experiences and Products (DPEP) Executives, Salaried and Non-Union Hourly Cast that the company continues to keep two priorities in mind:
At DPEP, as we look ahead, we must make tough decisions about the impacts of the extended closure, and are doing so with two priorities in mind:
Caring for our Cast Members:As a company and a leadership team, our focus now is on how best to care for our Cast Members – including keeping you safe, protecting your benefits, and preserving your job for the future.
Protecting the future of Disney: As we navigate an extraordinarily challenging business climate, we want to best position our company to weather this crisis.
Credit: Disney
At the time of this article’s publication, Disney did not share more information regarding the unionized employees. But the unions have spoken out.
Chris Duarte — president of Workers Union Local 50, which represents approximately 7,600 employees at Disneyland Resort — stated that their call with Disney is scheduled for Friday, April 3.
“We don’t have any clarity on how it applies to our members,” said Duarte. “We only have guaranteed pay through the 18th. Obviously we want that to continue on.”
This is a tumultuous time worldwide, including those who work for Disney Parks and Resorts in the United States, as they are currently closed for the time being. We at Inside the Magic will continue to update our website as more information becomes available.