Disneyland workers votes to go on strike
Cyn Carranza works tirelessly at Disneyland, cleaning floors overnight to ensure a pristine environment for guests. Despite her dedication, she has faced financial hardships, including living in her car while juggling multiple jobs.
Currently, about 9,500 Disneyland workers are poised to vote on authorizing a strike, the first in 40 years, due to dissatisfaction with their current contract, which they feel does not provide a livable wage.
The rising cost of living in Southern California exacerbates their struggles, as many employees cannot afford basic necessities.
Disneyland management has contingency plans in case of a strike, which union leaders anticipate will be brief. The ongoing negotiations also highlight tensions over union representation, including the right to wear union buttons.
The outcome of this situation will significantly impact the livelihoods of Disneyland employees and reflect broader labor issues in the region.
The demands of the Disneyland workers
The main demands of Disneyland workers in their contract negotiations include:
- Wage increases to keep up with the rising cost of living in Southern California
- Improved safety measures for employees
- Changes to attendance policies
- Better benefits
Union leaders are currently in negotiations with Disney management to secure a new contract deal.
The workers, represented by a coalition of four unions, overwhelmingly voted (99% of those who cast ballots) to authorize a potential strike if an agreement cannot be reached.
The strike authorization gives union leaders the option to call a strike, but no date has been set yet. Both sides are scheduled to return to the bargaining table on July 22-23.
