Disney employees across the country call on their company to live up to its stated ideals when it comes to showing support for LGBTQ employees, following The Walt Disney Company’s example Response to what critics have dubbed Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” law.
If signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, the Parents’ Rights in Education Act would restrict classroom discussion of sexual orientation or gender identity in elementary school and ban teaching about it through third grade in public schools. DeSantis said he plans to sign the law soon and has accused Disney of painting false narratives surrounding the legislation.
After an initial public silence, Disney CEO Bob Chapek apologized for not having “a stronger ally in the… fight for equal rights‘ and announced a range of supportive measures, including donations to advocacy groups and a reassessment of political donations.
For some employees, that’s not enough. They staged strikes over Disney properties Tuesday, with a list of demands.
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Why are Disney employees protesting?
“We want action,” said Nicholas Maldonado, an Orlando-area Disney employee who has always enjoyed working for the company but now doesn’t even want to watch Disney+.
“Be the fighter you say you are,” he added Tuesday. “I urge you, Mr. Chapek, to stand with us.”
Chapek said Disney will suspend political donations in Florida pending a restructuring of the framework for such donations, but organizers and supporters of the strikes want the company to permanently halt donations to lawmakers who support the law.
They also want Disney to stop moving employees into the state and halt construction and investment there until the bill is off the books. Construction is currently underway for two attractions at Walt Disney World, Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT and TRON Lightcycle/Run at Magic Kingdom.
The story goes on
Other demands include spending and plans for content that increases LGBTQ representation.
In an internal memo to USA TODAY staff, Chapek began by saying, “I believe the best way for our company to create lasting change is through the inspirational content we produce, the welcoming culture we create, and the diverse community organizations that that we support.”
In another memo, sent days later after the bill passed, he acknowledged the need to promote good “by telling inclusive stories, but also by standing up for everyone’s rights.”
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Who is protesting against Disney?
Employees of The Walt Disney Company at Walt Disney World Florida, Disneyland California, Disney Cruise Line, ABC, FX, National Geographic, Hulu, Walt Disney Studios, Pixar Animation Studios, Marvel Studios, LucasFilm, 20th Century Fox, Searchlight Pictures and various Disney companies other properties have been invited to participate in Tuesday’s strike.
Numerous employees took part in smaller strikes in the past week and spoke out on social media.
On air, ESPN announcers Elle Duncan, Carolyn Peck, Courtney Lyle, Stephanie White and Pam Ward observed moments of silence live during the broadcasts in solidarity with their colleagues.
Maldonado said he was “incredibly nervous” about the protest but needed to speak out for his identity and community.
“I want them to not only hear me, but also a lot of other LGBTQ performers that are part of this company,” he said. “I can’t be prouder to be part of the community. … I hope I can once again be proud to be part of The Walt Disney Company.”
How did Disney react?
Without getting specific about strikes, a number of Disney brands like Disney+ ESPN and National Geographic released statements of support on social media on Tuesday morning.
“We oppose any legislation that violates basic human rights and stand in solidarity and support to our LGBTQIA+ cast, crew, guests and fans who make their voices heard today and every day,” Walt Disney World posted on Instagram.
USA TODAY sent several requests to Disney for further comment, but received no response.
Mickey Mouse style gloves surround proud colors with heart shape on a wall in Disney Springs of Walt Disney World.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Disney Walkout: US Employees Protest Tuesday