Disney labor crisis: 14,000 employees on strike after 40 years

23-07-24

The Walt Disney Company faces a labor crisis unprecedented in four decades, as more than 14,000 employees at its parks and resorts in California have voted to call a strike. The situation comes amid growing discontent among workers, who accuse the company of unfair labor practices and obstructing collective bargaining.

The conflict has been reported by CBS, which highlights the unionization of four unions representing employees of Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure, Downtown Disney District and the three resort hotels in Anaheim. These unions have approved the call for the strike, which could begin at any time.

The workers are demanding better wages and fairer working conditions. One of the main concerns is the economic precariousness that many employees face. The unions have pointed out that an alarming 10% of the workers have become homeless, despite being employed at Disney. In addition, 73% of them do not earn enough to cover their basic needs, including housing and food. This scenario is especially troubling considering that these employees are critical to the daily operation and success of the theme parks, playing vital roles from attraction operators to hospitality staff to actors who embody Disney's iconic characters.