In February 2024, Disneyland performers sought to form a labor union, calling themselves “Magic United.”

Magic Happens parade in Disneyland

The group planned to represent entertainment cast members to include theatrical performers, parade performers, character performers, and host, leads and trainers that support the entertainment department, as well. Actors’ Equity Association — the same union that represents performers and stage managers at Disney World, on Broadway, and in many live theater productions across the United States — will represent the Disneyland employees. We now have an update on the unionization of the Cast Members. 

Leaders circulated union authorization cards to 1,700 Cast Members who were eligible to join the union. If a majority of the workers were to sign, the union will ask Disney to recognize the union. Most of the 35,000 employees at Disneyland Resort are already represented by labor unions, as are the majority of the 70,000 employees at Disney World.

Disneyland parade

Well, more than two-thirds of those 1,700 eligible workers signed the petition to unionize and seek an election through the National Labor Relations Board, according to MSN. A vote will likely be held in May or June.

Birthday Parade for Mickey and Minnie in Disneyland

The LA Times spoke with some Disneyland performers and shared their words on Instagram.

“We’re not considered at all in the decision-making process,” said Zach Elefante, a 29-year-old cast member. “If the only thing we were fighting for was a voice at the table, that would make this entire movement worth it.”

©LATimes

The Cast Members seek better “health and safety standards, flexible paid time off, fair schedules, job security, and greater involvement in workplace discussions, as well as higher wages.” Further, Cast Members have described getting into costume as “putting their arms into fiberglass.” Others deal with dangerous conditions from overexertion and working in the heat.

©LATimes

Actors’ Equity Assn. President Kate Shindle elaborated, “magic does not pay the rent.”

©MSN

Disneyland Resort spokesperson Jessica Good said in a statement regarding the unionization, “We support our cast members’ right to a confidential vote that recognizes their individual choices.”

We’ll be sure to keep you all updated on more Disney news.