Disneyland Character Performers Push for Union with 'Magic United' Name

Disneyland workers seek union support for "Magic United," addressing safety and scheduling concerns among 1,700 performers at the California theme parks.

In a show of solidarity, a group of 1,700 performers from Disneyland’s Southern California theme parks have taken a significant step towards unionization. The performers, including character representatives and parade dancers, have formally submitted an election petition to the National Labor Relations Board, signaling their intention to unionize. The prospective union, dubbed “Magic United”, has garnered ample support, with enough signatures collected to bolster their cause.

Call for Recognition

Alongside the petition, the workers have called upon The Walt Disney Co. to acknowledge and recognize their union. The company, in response, has stated its support for the cast members’ right to a confidential vote, affirming their commitment to respecting the individual choices of the workers.

Unionization Drive

The push for unionization stems from the performers’ aspirations to address a range of concerns, including safety issues and scheduling. Notably, most of the 35,000 workers at the Disneyland Resort are already affiliated with unions. However, the parade and character performers, unified in their quest for a union, are aiming to create a formal platform to advocate for their rights and welfare.

Union Formation

If the union comes to fruition, it would fall under the purview of the Actors’ Equity Association, an organization that currently represents theatrical performers at Disney's Florida theme parks. The initiative to unionize reflects a broader trend of growing public support for unions, as evidenced by the significant rise in filings for union representation reported by the National Labor Relations Board during the 2023 fiscal year.

Disney’s Presence and Reach

Disney’s presence in Anaheim is substantial, with operations encompassing two theme parks—Disneyland and Disney California Adventure—as well as the popular shopping and entertainment district, Downtown Disney. Notably, Disneyland, the company’s oldest park, ranked as the world's second-most visited theme park in 2022, drawing in a staggering 16.8 million visitors, according to a report by the Themed Entertainment Association and AECOM.

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