Disneyland unions vote overwhelmingly to authorize strike

Disneyland’s largest union coalition overwhelmingly voted to authorize a strike Friday, July 19 as Disney negotiators and union officials prepare to head back to the bargaining table.

Union members voted 99% in favor of authorizing a strike in an election held by Master Services Council, which represents 14,000 Disneyland employees from four unions.

“Disney cannot continue to silence cast members,” said a statement released by the Disney Workers Rising Bargaining Committee. “We are prepared to take action.”

A strike date has not been scheduled and the Disneyland resort continues to welcome visitors, according to Disneyland officials.

Disney negotiators and union officials are scheduled to meet again on Monday and Tuesday, July 22-23.

“We greatly appreciate the important roles our cast members play in creating memorable experiences for our guests, and we remain committed to reaching an agreement that focuses on what matters most to them while positioning Disneyland Resort for growth and job creation,” according to Disneyland officials. “Master Services Council’s strike authorization is not unusual as part of a negotiations process, and we look forward to continuing discussions at upcoming meetings on Monday, July 22 and Tuesday, July 23.”

Disneyland union employees and supporters rally outside the theme park’s Harbor Boulevard entrance in Anaheim, CA, on Wednesday, July 17, 2024. Ride operators, candy makers and ticket takers are fighting for a pay raise ahead of a planned strike vote on Friday. (Photo by Jeff Gritchen, Orange County Register/SCNG)

Candy maker Aaron Zarate addresses Disneyland union employees and supporters rally outside the theme park’s Harbor Boulevard entrance in Anaheim, CA, on Wednesday, July 17, 2024. Ride operators, candy makers and ticket takers are fighting for a pay raise ahead of a planned strike vote on Friday. (Photo by Jeff Gritchen, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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It’s unlikely a strike will be called while the two sides are still negotiating — but a labor stoppage could happen anytime after an affirmative authorization vote.

Union members chanted “Shut it down” during a rally outside the Disneyland entrance on Wednesday, July 17 that organizers said drew more than 1,000 protestors.

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The union coalition — which has been negotiating with Disney over a new contract since April — represents ride operators, store clerks, custodians, candy makers, ticket takers, parking attendants, tram drivers and other cast members, Disney parlance for employees.

The Disneyland contract covering approximately 9,000 employees expired June 16. The Disney California Adventure and Downtown Disney contracts covering approximately 5,000 employees expire on September 30.

Master Services Council declined to enter into a contract extension after the Disneyland contract expired, according to Disneyland officials.