Disneyland unions have reached an agreement on a significant 31% pay raise for employees, marking the largest wage increase in the resort’s history. The $6 pay hike, to be implemented over three years, is seen as a major victory for Disneyland resort workers, following a tense four-month negotiation period that nearly led to a strike.
Major Milestone in Labor Negotiations
The Master Services Council, representing 14,000 employees across Disneyland, Disney California Adventure, and Downtown Disney, announced the acceptance of the new contract on Monday, July 29. This council comprises four unions, all of which have been involved in the negotiations. The agreement promises a substantial pay raise for various roles, including ride operators, store clerks, ticket takers, and more.
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Disneyland and the unions have both labeled the agreement as “historic,” highlighting its significance for the workers, known as cast members in Disney parlance. According to Disneyland officials, the new agreements reflect the company’s commitment to valuing and respecting its employees, as well as ensuring their overall well-being.
Details of the Agreement
The new contract stipulates that hourly wages will rise by more than $6 over the next three years. Current pay rates of $19.90 per hour will increase to $24 in 2024 and $26 in 2026. In addition to these raises, long-term employees will receive a 50-cent pay increase after 10 years of service and a $2 increase after 20 years.
Moreover, the agreement includes back pay at the new rates from June 17 for current employees, while new hires will earn 90% of the new rate during their first year. This contract is effective immediately for all Disneyland, Disney California Adventure, and Downtown Disney employees.
Union Perspective
Disneyland Workers Rising, a coalition of the involved unions, expressed their satisfaction with the outcome. They believe that the new contracts will significantly improve the lives of cast members. The union coalition has been in negotiations with Disney since April, advocating for better wages and working conditions for a wide range of roles, including custodians, candy makers, parking attendants, and tram drivers.
The successful negotiation of this contract is seen as a critical achievement for the unions, especially considering the prolonged and challenging negotiation process. The agreement not only provides immediate financial benefits to the workers but also sets a precedent for future labor negotiations within the Disneyland resort.
Impact on Disneyland
For Disneyland, this agreement represents a strategic move to ensure the happiness and well-being of its employees, which in turn is expected to enhance the overall guest experience at the parks. By addressing the financial needs and job satisfaction of its cast members, Disneyland aims to maintain a motivated and dedicated workforce.
This historic pay raise highlights the importance of collective bargaining and the power of unions in advocating for fair wages and improved working conditions. As the new contract takes effect, both Disneyland and its cast members look forward to a more prosperous and harmonious future.