Disneyland Workers Protest Over Wages and Living Conditions
Hundreds of Disneyland workers gathered outside the park’s gates this week to protest over wages and living conditions, highlighting the struggles faced by employees at the “Happiest Place on Earth.”
Among the protesters was Cynthia “Cyn” Carranza, an overnight custodian at Disneyland who shared her experience of living in her car with her two dogs due to the high cost of rent in Southern California. Despite making $20.65 an hour, Carranza struggled to make ends meet and even resorted to sneaking showers in Disneyland’s costume department.
The protest comes as about 10,000 union workers at Disneyland are threatening to strike over wages and what they describe as retaliatory anti-union practices. Workers detailed financial hardships, with some revealing they have experienced homelessness while working at the park.
The issue of wages is a key concern for workers, with many stating that the current pay is not enough to survive in Southern California. A living wage calculator suggests that a single person would need to be paid $30.48 an hour to afford to live near Disneyland.
Despite the challenges, workers expressed their love for the Disney brand and the benefits they receive, such as healthcare and access to a union-operated food bank. However, they are calling for fair pay and better working conditions.
Disney has stated that they are committed to negotiations with their employees and are focused on reaching a deal that benefits both current and future cast members. The last Disneyland strike occurred in 1984 and lasted 22 days.
As negotiations continue, workers are hopeful that their voices will be heard and that changes will be made to improve their living and working conditions at the iconic theme park.
