Disneyland Workers Ratify New Contract With Wage Raises, Averting Strike

The new contract agreement includes what the labor group said is its biggest ever wage increase.

Most workers will receive $6.10 more over the coming three years, according to the statement released by a coalition of four unions that represents 14,000 workers from Disneyland, Disney California Adventure, Downtown Disney, and the Disney hotels.

The contracts, which the labor group called “historic,” also include:

• Minimum base wage rate of $24 in 2024 (or more for some classifications)
• Historic longevity increases for senior cast members
• Attendance policy and sick leave improvements that give cast members more opportunities to attend to personal issues without fearing discipline
• New premiums for cast members

“This victory is a direct result of us showcasing our power at the bargaining table and in the parks,” the labor coalition said in a statement. “Every meeting we attended, rally we participated in, petition we signed, and button we wore forced Disney to recognize our power and enabled us to reach this historic agreement.”

“By ratifying these contracts, Disney cast members have secured historic raises and policies and protections that reflect their role as magic makers in the Disney parks,” the coalition’s statement added.

The labor coalition, which encompasses a diverse group of employees ranging from custodians and ride operators to candy makers and merchandise clerks, had reached a tentative agreement with Disney for new contracts just last week.

The workers entered negotiations with Disneyland leaders back in April. Some of the worker’s contracts expired June 16, 2024, while those for workers in Disney California Adventure and Downtown Disney are set to expire on September 30.
Disneyland officials said they welcomed news of the contract ratification.

“We are pleased that our cast members approved the new agreements, which, along with all we offer as part of our employment experience, demonstrate how much we value them and our profound commitment to their overall well-being,” Jessica Good, a spokesperson for the resort, said in a statement, according to ABC.