Today, over 1,700 Disneyland cast members who perform as our favorite Disney characters in meet-and-greets, parades, shows, and other experiences announced their intent Tuesday to unionize with Actors’ Equity.
The group, which they are calling themselves Magic United, is asking for increased wages, more transparency on scheduling, and addressing safety and sanitary concerns while on the job.
Magic United has initiated the distribution of union authorization cards and intends to pursue voluntary acknowledgment from Disney Resort Entertainment. In the event that such acknowledgment is not forthcoming, Equity will submit a petition to the National Labor Relations Board, seeking authorization for an election.
“We chose Actors’ Equity Association as our union because we’ve seen how well they work with Disney in Florida, on Broadway and on tour. Our Walt Disney World colleagues exemplify how you can be pro-Disney and pro-union at the same time. Furthermore, the vast majority of our park colleagues here in Anaheim already have union representation. It’s a win/win: when we can speak with a collective voice, we can have a clearer, more productive conversation with our employer. Ultimately this will result in a better experience for all – Cast Members, managers and more importantly, our Guests,”
Magic United leaders in a statement
