Four unions representing over 14,000 workers at Disney’s theme parks in Southern California have voted to authorize a strike due to alleged unfair labor practices during contract negotiations. The workers at Disneyland, Disney California Adventure, Downtown Disney, and Disney-owned hotels have given a 99% membership vote in favor of a potential strike, marking the first possible strike at Disneyland in 40 years.
The Disney Workers Rising Bargaining Committee accused Disney of engaging in unfair labor practices such as disciplinary actions, intimidation, and surveillance of union members wearing union buttons. The workers, including custodians, ride operators, candymakers, and merchandise clerks, entered into contract negotiations with Disney on April 24. The charges of unfair labor practices are being investigated by the National Labor Relations Board.
Researchers have highlighted economic struggles faced by Disneyland employees, with a report showing that 74% of them cannot cover basic expenses each month. A survey of union members revealed high rates of food and housing insecurity among workers, with many spending over half of their paychecks on rent.
The unions involved in the potential strike are the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers (BCTGM) Local 83; the Service Employees International Union-United Service Workers West (SEIU-USWW); the Teamsters Local 495; and the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 324. Despite the strike authorization vote, negotiations are ongoing, with the bargaining committee planning to return to the bargaining table.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com