Many are homeless and three quarters earn too little for fundamental bills: Disneyland staff protest low wages

In accordance with the union’s press launch, 99 p.c of the employees voted for the strike. “Disney has resorted to unlawful ways as a substitute of treating the wage negotiation course of with the respect and seriousness it deserves. This surprising vote sends a transparent message to the corporate: collectively we’re stronger and we won’t permit ourselves to be divided by concern ways,” he stated.

In precept, staff can now cease work every time they need. However an efficient strike “stays a final resort”, the unions say. So that they need to take part in new discussions with the administration on Monday and Tuesday.

Final week, tons of of staff protested exterior the park. They did this with indicators depicting Mickey Mouse, amongst different issues. “Mickey would love a good wage,” they stated on the park gates.

Union staff say about one in 10 Disneyland crew members have develop into homeless whereas working on the park. Many sleep of their automobiles, however have bother discovering a protected parking house. As a result of sleeping within the parking zone of the park will not be allowed. A survey of staff discovered that 73 p.c say they don’t earn sufficient to cowl fundamental bills every month and round a 3rd say they’ve skilled housing insecurity prior to now 12 months. ‘ gone. (Learn extra under the image)

After the actors’ and screenwriters’ strike that paralyzed Hollywood final 12 months, a significant strike at Disney could be historic. In accordance with the Los Angeles Instances California theme park staff have not gone on strike since 1984.

Park administration stated Friday that they “stay up for persevering with discussions” scheduled for Monday and Tuesday. Presently, “no strike is deliberate and the Disneyland Resort continues to welcome the guests,” he stated.

The unions have been combating Disney since April to lift wages for his or her 14,000 staff. Negotiations had been tense and hampered by allegations of anti-union practices. Many staff additionally report harassment, which led to an investigation by the US Division of Labor.