Disneyland, one of the most popular destinations for families, has long provided the employees behind its parades and costumed characters with paid leave in the weeks after they become new parents.
But now those full-time and part-time workers, organized under the union Actors’ Equity Assn., say Disney has threatened to take that benefit away, as they negotiate a new contract that includes proposals for higher wages, among other items.
The 1,700 workers in the unit known as Magic United began bargaining their first contract in October 2024 and have yet to reach agreement with Disney over key issues. They are the people supporting Disneyland’s parades, shows and character operations, including some who perform as iconic characters such as Mickey Mouse, Snow White and Cinderella.