NEWS: Disneyland Character Performers Vote To Unionize

The heart and soul of Disney Parks are Cast Members, who go above and beyond to make magic for everyone who visits.

Recently, Cast Member unions spent some time with Disney over contract negotiations. Now, character performers in Disneyland Resort are seeking change, too.

In April 2024, Disneyland Resort Cast Members who work in the entertainment department announced they would hold a vote on whether to join the Actors’ Equity Association, a union that represents actors who work in live theater. Now, according to NPR, that vote has been held, and Disneyland performers overwhelmingly voted to unionize by a vote of 953 to 258.

The election was open to around 1,700 of Disney’s entertainment employees who work in both the character and parade departments. This includes characters who perform in daily parades, as well as characters who meet and roam Disneyland and Disney California Adventure.

Calling themselves “Magic United,” the group that initially petitioned for unionization hopes for “improved health and safety standards, flexible PTO, fair schedules, job security, and greater involvement in workplace discussions.”

In a statement made before the vote, Disneyland said, “We support our Cast Members’ right to a confidential vote that recognizes their individual choices.” Disneyland also pointed out that non-union employees receive annual raises and paid sick time in line with current industry standards.

Many Disneyland Cast Members are already members of a union, including stage performers and those working in hospitality and at Disneyland hotels. Parade characters at Disney World have long been represented by the Teamsters.

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