The Los Angeles Times reports Disneyland, one of the most popular destinations for families, has long provided their Employees behind its parades and Costumed Characters with Paid Parental Leave in the weeks after they become new parents. But now those Full-Time and Part-Time Workers, organized under their Union - Actors’ Equity, say Disney has threatened to take that benefit away as they negotiate a new contract that includes proposals for higher wages, among other items. The 1,700 Workers in the Unit known as Magic United began bargaining their first contract in October 2024 and have yet to reach agreement with Disney over key issues. They are the people supporting Disneyland’s parades, shows and character operations, including some who perform as iconic characters such as Mickey Mouse, Snow White and Cinderella. They organized over several issues, including safety and health concerns. The start rate for Parade and Pageant Helpers is $26 an hour, while the start rate for Stage Scheduling Assistants is $28.25 an hour, according to the Union. About 60% of the Unit are Part-Time Workers. Disney’s current proposal does not include Paid Parental Leave, eliminates a paid holiday and reduces how much Disney matches Employee contributions to their 401(k) plans, Union Members said.

To Continue Reading This Labor News Report, Go To: Contract offer for Disneyland costumed characters doesn't have paid parental leave - Los Angeles Times

From The New York City AFL-CIO Central Labor Council:

The Character and Parade Cast Members who help bring the magic of Disneyland to life have been bargaining for their first Union contract since October 2024.

While there has been some progress at the negotiating table, Disneyland management will not come to terms for a deal.

In fact, management is now trying to eliminate Worker benefits!

Disney has carefully crafted their public persona to emphasize that they are truly committed to making the world a better place.

They have an entire website about their social impact (www.impact.disney.com/investing-in-our-people), where they speak about how highly they think of their Employees and how much they invest in them both professionally and personally.

But behind closed doors, Disney management has dragged out negotiations and disrespected their Workers because they think no one is watching.

Disney is not afraid to harm their Workers to enlarge their profits, which is why they want to eliminate Paid Parental Leave, reduce retirement and Personal Time Off Benefits and keep wages insultingly low.

Sign your name today and show your solidarity with the Cast Members of Disneyland!

By signing your name, you let the Workers know that we have your support.

And by signing your name, you let the Disneyland management know that, if they truly cared about making the world a better place, they would stop being hypocrites and treat their Workers fairly.