Disneyland Performers File Petition To Form Labor Union

Performers who help bring Disney’s beloved characters to life at its Southern California theme parks have filed a petition to form a labor union, reported Amy Taxin for the Associated Press (AP).

The workers include parade performers, character actors, and support staff at Disneyland and an adjacent theme park, Disney California Adventure. I Photo: HarshLight Flickr

The workers include parade performers, character actors, and support staff at Disneyland and an adjacent theme park, Disney California Adventure.

More than two-thirds of roughly 1,700 eligible workers signed the petition to seek an election through the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), the workers said, noting that a vote will likely be held in May or June.

At a news conference in Anaheim, which is home to the two theme parks and the Downtown Disney shopping and entertainment district, workers said they also asked The Walt Disney Co. to recognize the union they are calling “Magic United.”

Several workers said they love helping create a magical experience for Disneyland visitors.

But they said they grew concerned when they were asked to resume hugging patrons after returning to work during the coronavirus pandemic, and they face certain challenges, including injuries from costumes, erratic scheduling, and a lack of clear communication from management.