Disneyland’s iconic cast members, who bring beloved characters to life and perform in vibrant parades, have overwhelmingly voted to unionize. In a significant move towards improving their working conditions, nearly 79 percent of these employees, known collectively as cast members, have chosen to join the Actors’ Equity Association. This union, which already represents theatrical performers at Disney’s parks in Florida, will now extend its representation to approximately 1,700 workers at Disneyland in Anaheim.
Adam Hefner, a Disneyland cast member, has been vocal about the lack of respect and recognition that performers face without union representation. “We are vital to the Magic Kingdom,” Hefner stated, emphasizing the crucial role that character performers and parade participants play in creating the enchanting experiences that Disneyland is known for.
Another cast member, Mai Vo, highlighted the need for unionization to ensure general on-the-job safety for all performers. “Having a union is essential for our safety and well-being,” Vo remarked, reflecting the sentiments of many who feel that their concerns have been neglected for too long.
The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) is expected to certify the union election results this week, solidifying the cast members’ decision to join the Actors’ Equity Association. This certification will mark a new chapter for Disneyland performers, providing them with a formal platform to negotiate for better wages, benefits, and working conditions.
This move to unionize at Disneyland mirrors broader trends within the entertainment and service industries, where workers are increasingly seeking collective bargaining power to address issues such as fair compensation, safety standards, and job security. The unionization of Disneyland’s cast members could inspire similar efforts across other theme parks and entertainment venues, potentially reshaping labor relations in the industry.
As the unionization process moves forward, Disneyland’s character and parade performers are hopeful that their new representation will lead to meaningful improvements in their work environment. The Actors’ Equity Association, with its extensive experience in advocating for performers’ rights, is poised to support these workers in their quest for a fairer, safer workplace.
