Disney cast members filed an unfair labor practice charge, claiming they were treated unfairly for wearing union buttons while on the job.
“Cast members have been at the bargaining table for months trying to get a fair contract because we deserve more, but the company has been busy breaking the law, surveilling, intimidating and disciplining cast members for exercising of their rights,” said Disneyland cast member Michi Cordell. said.
The cast members allege that more than 550 of their peers faced unlawful discipline, harassment and surveillance for wearing union buttons in support of their contracts. Disney officials refuted this claim, saying they were asked to remove the buttons because they did not match the costumes.
“Disneyland Resort cast members may only wear buttons and pins that are part of their costumes while working to preserve the show for our guests,” a Disneyland spokesperson said.
Initially, employees receive a verbal warning, but disciplinary measures escalate after multiple violations. Disney claims that fewer than a handful of disciplinary actions have been handed out.
“These unfair labor practices hinder our ability to get the fair contract we deserve and Disney must be held accountable and prevented from further endangering us, the cast members who make the magic for guests every day,” Cordell said.
