Hi Chris, DLR cast member here! I work attractions, the Union discourse has been at the forefront of cast conversations as of late. It is worrisome for all of us but we believe in our cause for better treatment by the company for our hard work making the magic. Disney has offered a very lackluster proposition thus far, so on July 19th we vote to authorize the strike! I’m being told that means the Union will tell us when to strike, and if/when that happens we are to walk out of the job and join the picket line. We sign in and will earn a small amount of $ for participation (less than $19.90/hr but better than 0). Our jobs are legally protected once the strike is authorized and we estimate it to only take a few days if everyone participates. The 14,000 cast include custodial, attractions, merchandise, food/beverage, entertainment costuming and more! The heart of Disneyland. Thank you for making this video to bring attention to current affairs affecting us cast members. We love our jobs and simply ask for a better contract.
i was a shop steward for the union for the main entrance. that union was pretty corrupt imo and didnt really seem to care about CMs. this was back in like 2014 though.
Ex DL CM (7yrs - NO/BC Attractions) here... I quit right before the strike in '84. At that time, obviously things were very different. Wardrobe existed, we turned in our costumes at the end of a shift for a clean one, never ever took DL property home, and weren't responsible for the cleaning. (Really angry you guys have to do that.) At that time, the Master 2-year contract was up in the Fall, and only Cash Control & Entertainment (Characters mostly) were non-union. Every other department was Union (lots of different unions... Attractions were Teamsters, others were a Service Employee union, etc, but we were all governed by a Master Contract.) Also in '84, in the off season DL was closed Mon/Tues, and only open 10-7 so it was much slower. (The training the Admin staff received to run the attractions was minimal at best and ***the strike only lasted 22 days even though we had less power that you do now!***) I know that Entertainment is AEA now, but I'm not sure about all the other departments. I feel they've definitely lowered the Quality of Life for the CMs compared to when I worked there, and wish you all the best in solidarity. I've got current reservations for 3 nights at Grand Californian in mid September, but if you're still on strike at the last date we can cancel, we will. I'm currently in 3 performing unions (AEA, SAG-AFTRA, AGVA) and I'll never cross a picket line!
If Disney management can blow over 188 million on that joke called the Acolyte they can afford to treat you better after all unlike the Acolyte you actually generate a profit for Disney. If Disney is worried about losing money they can and should fire a bunch of their 7 figure execs who do nothing but make bad decisions.
Can Disney find alternatives than just money? I usually trade with people on Offer Up if we can't come to a money agreement. Maybe if you get paid $200 week, you get $500 in Disneyland Merch? Or hotel credits? Resell all the Disney merch for 50% off and tell all the park guests to come by your home after the park closes! I wouldn't mind working for no money in exchange for a Disney vacation. I kind of get frustrated dealing with money because everyone wants more of it and pay less of it. I think it's unfair a mom will cave in and buy a Disney stuffed animal for $35-$40 and know it's expensive, but if it was on Offer Up she may not even want to pay $10.
Thank you so much for this video as a DLR cast member, this cleared up a lot of things for me… there’s a lot of us that are confused about the situation so this helps! Also, if there is a strike, guests are absolutely more than welcome to continue to visit Disneyland! The magic for them shouldn’t be interrupted or postponed!
Watching this felt like being back in college listening to my favorite professor. So we'll explained, covering both sides. Well done, Provost Park Pass! Thank you!
40 seconds in and I have total confidence that Chris will not take sides, will provide facts and will be helpful to people watching. Credibility in action!
Ty so much… you have done these type of videos before… explaining Disney business to us…. You are the only channel explaining all this stuff and it actually makes some sense to me!! 😊 You are awesome! Has anyone told you that lately?? Well I’m telling you now! 😊
As expensive as Disney tickets are, I'm disappointed that more is not paid to CM! I won't cross the line and I'm not a Union member. The principal of paying a professional/ living wage is a principle for me
One year ago, my Union voted for a SAV. The SAV, combined with informational pickets, influenced the company to focus and continue negotiations with more resolve to meet an agreement in the CBA.
First thing that popped in to my head was how good your shirt looked. You did an excellent job explaining the situation and the process. I thought about showing this video to my union reps so they can learn something.
I have had tickets for me and my nephew for 7/23 - 7/24 for Disney and DCA. I got these at the start of the year. First I hear Splash Mountain closing, then Haunted Mansion (2 of the rides I really wanted to go on). I'm preying nothing else happens, I haven't been to Disneyland since I was 6.
I am with you, I knew splash mountain was closed but I thought it was opening June 28th but that was for WDW so that was my error but I didn’t know haunted mansion was closed and that was my main reason for going, so I could ride the original haunted mansion and pirates. Now there is a strike, also Disney railroad and space mountain is also going to be closed when I go 😂😭. I am all for a strike because those workers deserve everything but I may get my money back if I can and go to wdw instead because there is too much going on.
Even if they could get unemployment, it's only a percentage of original pay. If they're striking to get better pay, unemployment is never going to sustain them any better.
@@MrRobarino True, but unemployment is not meant to sustain your lifestyle, it's meant to be a little help to possibly pay for things in a very short term emergency type of situation. Hell, if you pay into the unemployment system you damn well should be able to take from it when you are in a time of need. That said, yeah, striking should not count, unemployment is strictly for those who lost their jobs not for those who choose to leave.
I’m reminded of Disneys own movie AND Broadway show… NEWSIES Which was COMPLETELY about a major company that didn’t treat it’s employees well or pay them fairly. Based off an actual newsboys strike in 1899. Jack Kelly was inspired by Kid Blink, and David inspired by David Simmons. Would the union members come in with, “Seize the Day”? I feel like it would be a good kick at Disney if they did. Hey Disney! Pay your cast members better and TREAT THEM BETTER! Getting tired of these companies treating their employees like trash.
Thank you for taking the time to educate people on how unions work! I'm sure all Disney guests agree and appreciate that it's cast members that make Disney magical (go to another park and you realise there's that extra ingredient missing, it's the people) and cast members deserve to be treated fairly for the work they do! It's a shame that the situation escalates this far.
I recently worked at Disney world fl. And being homeless and sleeping right behind the castle for a whole year and having to walk everywhere was very stressful plus they never really tried helping me progress up the ladder it hurt that I had to leave I enjoyed working at the Caribbean beach resort Centertown market wish things wood had been different
Sorry… But it’s any entry-level job at a theme park or resort. What did you expect? You knew the wage when you signed on - Right? Yes there was a time when you could move up the ladder in jobs like that, but that was a long time ago. It still can happen but not as quickly and more than likely they are going to want you to have some sort of schooling for that higher position OR several years of experience.
Chris, thank you so much for a very clear explanation of how the union union works and how a strike works. Very impressed with this very clear and understandable explanation.
28% of cast members report experiencing food insecurity. 64% of cast members spend more than half of their monthly paychecks on rent. 33% of cast members experienced housing insecurity in the past year. 42% of cast members had to miss work for medical treatment because they didn’t have enough sick leave.
I've been a union member in the past and my dad, step-dad, mom, son's father and grandfather were all union members all their careers. Those good union jobs were why I grew up middle class and not living in poverty. Thank goodness for unions! Unions are all that stand between corporations' power and workers. There is power in numbers and collective action. Wages rise in areas of the nation where there are more unions. Union jobs often provide decent benefits and other important benefits that allow workers to live dignified lives. I'm 100% in support of the workers going on strike if that's what it takes for them to get more pay or better benefits! I'm walked a picket line in my life, too. Solidarity!!
My father was in a union and we had a completely different experience. It was crap, didn't support the employees, and when a strike hit, it was at the worst possible time, culminating in nothing better for the employees. Usually it meant higher priced health insurance deductions with fewer or worse benefits. Unions are CRAP and need to go.
@@bncsmom1 I understand your dad had his experience. Mine, including when I myself was in a union, have been great. There is no system or group that will be perfect, but unions are all that we have between the worker and the power companies have. The data is there: generally, unions mean better wages, better benefits. I'm sorry your dad didn't have that experience.
You do a great job of explaining these kind of things. Also with the proxy vote and stuff last summer. I love all your videos! Thank you for the positive vibes. You do so much for people maintaining depression and anxiety.
Going mid August. Between the large amount of attraction closures and now the possible strike it’s extremely stressful. Just want to celebrate my baby boy’s first birthday and not think about anything else but the Disney magic!
I am going in mid August to celebrate my baby boy's 21 birthday. I've been paying on this vacation for 9 months. Staying at the Grand Californian which is a dream come true for us.
Thank you for this wonderful and helpful video! As someone with a first-time trip booked later this month, I’m very appreciative of the clarification, which has helped quell my anxiety. Also, as a union member myself (not with Disney) and having gone through contract negotiations, I can confirm that the vote process and leverage discussions are correct. Hope the CM’s get at least some of what they are asking for! They deserve that (and more.) Support Disney CM’s! ❤
We have a 1st time trip the end of this month as well and I knew nothing about this potential strike. I had actually found this specific video “on accident”. But with just hearing about it, I am in a panic now with it being just me & my little girl. I’ve been calling to cancel hotel, see my options for flight credits, & ticket refunds. We would love to still go though as this is a bucket list trip. Would you mind sharing your thoughts and what info has helped to make you feel better about it? Asking sincerely, as we want to keep our trip but I don’t want to spend all this money we’ve worked so hard to save to have it not be as magical as if we waited. Thank you!!
@@traceybruns1400 Sure! I get it, an expensive first-time trip; you want it to be super magical! I’m feeling okay with things for a couple of reasons. 1. A vote to strike does not automatically mean an actual strike, or a strike right away, as Chris said. 2. Personally, I’m well versed in many things Disney, having been to WDW a few times, and “studying” regularly. It’s also not a bucket-list trip for me and I’m going solo, so I can easily pivot. Here’s my advice for you: go on the trip. Unless the parks actually close (highly unlikely) you’re not going to get a ticket refund. Change your priorities/learn what else you can do to have a magical day should your plans be forced to change. There’s lots to do/see/eat at the three hotels and Downtown Disney, both of which are free to visit. If you’re still feeling anxious, can you reduce any of your trip, such as canceling dining reservations or show viewing enhancements (assuming you’ve signed up for either.) I think you and your daughter can still have a wonderful trip if you lower/reset your expectations. Find wonder and magic in the unexpected. Lastly, watch a few other videos/channels to lear more. Chris has some great videos. I also highly recommend Mammoth Club, Disney Food Blog (DFB), and All Ears. :) I hope that helps you feel better about your trip!
Coming from Australia with my family of 5 in September, we will have spent $20k AUD on flights, accommodation and tickets. Damn right the dispute has nothing to do with us and all the other Australians who will have spent a fortune, we will still go. I hope the CMs get fair pay.
Thank you for being one of the only influencers to address this important issues, if they do end up striking I will stand by these cast members and will not cross that line.
I really hope Disney give their workers a fair deal so the strike isn’t needed We are traveling from Australia to go to Disneyland on August 8 I really hope it’s over by then and our time there isn’t ruined
Thank you for the great information. I really feel like if they do vote to strike, the targeted date to strike will likely coincide with D23 expo. Hope it doesn’t come to that and both sides are able to resolve the issue and come to an agreement, but I would assume that would be the date
TLDR warning, but if you're curious about how union strikes are handled in other states, read on. I only have retail union experience and I've shared it below. But in short if you already booked your vacation don't cancel it. You didn't know about the strike vote, they are NOT striking on the 19th and I'm assuming you already purchased passes as part of your vacation so Disney already has your money. Enjoy your vacation guilt free. This is not your fault. I used to be in a cashier/retail worker union in NJ and what Chris described is very accurate with unions. I don't know if California now allows unemployment benefits, but I am from NJ and both NY and NJ are the only states that allow unemployment benefits for workers on strike. The definition of eligibility is for workers who lose their jobs through no fault of their own. Despite the fact that we vote whether or not to strike, because it is ultimately up to the union to approve it is what makes us eligible for unemployment benefits in a strike. Corporations there are still fighting against that because they're claiming that unemployment benefits makes the fight unfair. I completely disagree and am glad the courts agreed with us because without the unemployment benefits they just starve us into giving in which is very difficult for them to do when we can collect unemployment. Cashier and garbage strikes in NJ and NY tend to be pretty short if we even do strike. For anyone who has been on unemployment pre lockdown knows how awful it is and it's better to earn a wage no matter how bullshit low that wage is. However for union employees, the union benefit they pay us is so low that unemployment doesn't require us to deduct that from the unemployment benefit. Trust me you're really not making money collecting both those benefits. The best it does is slow down you draining your life savings because when a union votes to strike you have to strike even if you voted against it. Most union workers don't vote against it at least when I was in that union because we do need it as a bargaining chip. In my memory we only went on strike long term once and it was when our contract was up which it is every 10 years. This time around was different in 1993 because the corporations wanted to remove ALL our benefits because convenience store employees (who were not eligible for this union back then) had zero benefits and they wanted to go that route. They tried to entice us with higher wages like $1 more per hour which back then was considered a lot, however the union shared with us how much more our benefits were worth and it was better to stay at the same rate of pay with benefits. We didn't have social media back then so corporations could very easily fool us and the unions protected us. I'm still pro union to this day because of it. They truly do protect worker rights and within reason. Corporations just whine about them because unions stop them from using us like tools.
Sad that the youngsters don't know what a strike is. I was involved in a possible strike back when I worked at Disneyland between 1978 and 1981. The Supervisors and Leads came to me to ask if I would agree to proposed raises, knowing, I guess, that cast members talked to me about stuff. We approved the proposed raise and avoided the strike. So, Disney actually engages (or did while I was there) with cast members for advice when they're looking at a possible strike. I think they'll get past this without a strike, but things have changed a shocking amount since I worked there. Disney has made some grave mistakes, and seem to have lost touch with their cast members, and that is all on people above the level of area stage managers.
This was so informative and educational. Thank you SOOO much for listening to Amanda and being a sound board. You were so clear and fair and you brought perspectives from various angles. You're the bomb!! THANK YOU!
From what I understand. This doesn't apply to the DCA and DTD side for the most part because DCA & DTD CM's contract expires later on like in Sept of 2024 from what I read. From what I understand is if DL side CM's do go on strike. Some DCA CM's maybe deployed to work the DL side in the meantime
Oh man, my family from out of town has the discounted tickets. Thankfully we’re going this week before the strike might happen. Hopefully it will be resolved fast because the shutdown was too much for my friend with autism and they will be devastated if they can’t celebrate their birthday in August 😢
Chris I ALWAYS appreciate these videos where you explain things SO MUCH! I hear you on the idea that if folks have already paid, they should go and not loose out on their money, and I agree. BUT. I also wish if guests are able to strike as well, to do that. Not just to support the cast members which make the REAL magic happen, but to give a loud and clear message to Disney about how unhappy we've been by them continuing to take more and more experiences away from us while hiking the prices up more and more. I'm really. freaking. over. it. OK, rant over! Thanks again!
For some of us Disneyland guests, it would not be feasible to join their strike as my family and I would lose money on airfare, hotel, and tickets; however, what we could do is not purchase any merchandises and cut down on concessions!
Usually an authorization vote is well before an actual strike happens. A strike authorization vote is a warning shot to the negotiating team of the company & the board that the union isn’t bluffing. It is a sign of solidarity
my family and i will be in the parks on the 19th and 20th!! we made these reservations awhile ago, so we will be interested to see if there’s any visible changes in staff (i doubt we’d notice even if there was). good for the cast members!!
What is the reason why they’re debating on going on a strike? There has to be a huge reason or demand as to why the strike is potentially going to happen
I love the green shirt snd blue tie combo!! You should eear it more often. Thank you for making this video. It really helped me understand rhe situation.
Just a reminder that you can collect unemployment while striking. It's literally a law in California so some of this video is a little more dramatic than need be (as he may not have known that was the case). It's not like we don't have money coming in while on strike, but the hope is that it all gets worked out with Disney sharing its many many profits with the people who help make them.
Chris - Thank you for explaining this situation! Disney makes so much money, therefore, they need to take care of their employees. They make the magic happen! I hope the employees get what they deserve🙏🙏
Chris, you're awesome! You give the best information and explanation of what's going on. That's why I love watching your channel. You're the best. Keep up the great work! 🇺🇸🏰🫡
When I was a CM a hundred years ago, I was a seasonal employee. I had to pay union dues but was not entitled to any union benefits. I wonder if a strike would apply to seasonal employees?
I don't have a dog in this fight. I haven't been to Disneyland in a long time the magic left with the arrival of Genie plus and park reservations. That being said if Disney can blow billions of dollars in failed projects like the Star Cruiser and garbage shows like She Hulk and the Acolyte they can afford to give their employees most of what their asking for.
Hi Chris! You know what your true nitch is? You are the "Bill Nye the Science Guy: of explaining real life to young people,. Sprinkled in with Disney and theme parks to hold kids' attention, you could consider selling online manuals, which you would have to research, but there are plenty of home schooled kids whose parents would love to buy from you.Think about it, but it came to me from how you explained "strikes" on this vid. Super digestible and you have a way of keeping people's attention. Good luck on all endeavors. I really believe you have a "brandable" personality. Aslo, consider making "subscriptions" available like Resort TV1. I imagine a grandparent buying three memberships for their grandkids. You could have a separate paid channel or whatever. Your lovely wife will help you figure that out. All best! That's it for now.
I think the big thing that could force them to close is most unions won't cross another unions picket line which could affect them getting supplies and other services involving other unionized labor.
Also want to point out that there is Disneyland cast members then California Adventure/Downtown Disney, their contracts expired at different times, California Adventure contract doesn't end until end of September. Now being associated with a strike before, no one wins a strike, employers, employees and customers no one wins. Even when collecting unemployment, its some money but not the money would be getting if working and that hole just gets bigger the more you collect it. Sometimes the unions will have their own war chest as well to help pay employees on strike. Now my own opinion if Disneyland employees go on strike, I actually see a series of one day strikes, at the beginning and don't think would really see anything until next month. I believe I read both sides have meetings scheduled either this week or next week for further negotiations, but also all of us really don't know what is going on through the talks and only other thing we know both sides are going to have to give. But also any cast member who is voting I would strongly suggest to do research into every thing, not just go on what is being told. And that is a snappy ensemble there
Pretty scary. I love Disneyland, and I hope that if it comes down to an unfortunate closure due to a strike, it won’t last too long. Lots of people would really miss it, especially passholders and bloggers like him that go almost everyday. 😢❤ This is probably a good sign anyway of why I’m not going back at the end of this year for the holidays, me and my family are just waiting to go next year.
Chris; I haven't heard anything about the ongoing union actions. Are they and Disney currently negotiating a contract or grievances? Usually a strike vote is tied to voting on a contract. When we would come to an end of a contract negotiation where the two sides have reached a point where the negotiations have come to an end, the union members vote on the contract, with language on the ballot that states if the membership votes down on the contract, they are authorizing the union to call for a strike. But just because the membership authorities the union to be able to call for a strike, does not mean the union will call for a strike automatically. Usually more negotiations will take place before a strike is called. A note to the Castmembers, if you do walk out for a day or more, i will not cross your picket line. Also, while it is not allowed, if you will have me, in my free time, i would be honored to join you on your picket line. Strength in numbers when you stand together. God bless
I work at the airport and our union tell us they try to avoid strike instead they have us all go on lunch at the same time and they march at the airport and or the HR office
Thank you so much for making this so clear. It breaks my heart to hear anything bad about Disney. We are in the works for a family of six to visit Disneyland. Waiting for twins to get a little older.
Hi Chris! IBEW has members working on several attractions within the park (Haunted Mansion, Tiana’s). I’m curious to see if the cast members will receive support from the other unions working within Disneyland if the strike actually happens.
I’m a union member who’s made the difficult decision to go on strike twice in the last 5 years. Unfortunately my 30,000+ member union does not provide any financial support to members
There is a common misconception that the entirety of Disneyland Resort (some 35k employees) voted to strike and people go "wow" at that impact. It's more like 60% of 14,000 Disneyland-only cast members after a massive activist campaign by the union to vilify the company. I'm not exactly on Disney's side here since they just came out against Nelson Peltz by saying they were making money hand-over-fist but then also say they cannot pay their employees more. They made their bed.
Disney would be absolutely foolish to not give in and re-negotiate immediately with their cast members. Because if the strike happens for certain amount of time, and the parks close, that’s millions and millions of dollars of revenue lost. And Disney just wasted $16 billion on projects that were absolute fails. So they do still have a lot of money to make up for and it would be really nice if they could give some of that money back to the community, not just charity.
Good job explaining the facts. Please don't cross the picket line. I have walked one, myself. My dad has more than once (one time, for weeks, he was the only one at his location and a person who worked elsewhere in the building asked to shake his hand). If you respect those CMs, do NOT cross that picket line!
Hi Chris, DLR cast member here! I work attractions, the Union discourse has been at the forefront of cast conversations as of late. It is worrisome for all of us but we believe in our cause for better treatment by the company for our hard work making the magic. Disney has offered a very lackluster proposition thus far, so on July 19th we vote to authorize the strike! I’m being told that means the Union will tell us when to strike, and if/when that happens we are to walk out of the job and join the picket line. We sign in and will earn a small amount of $ for participation (less than $19.90/hr but better than 0). Our jobs are legally protected once the strike is authorized and we estimate it to only take a few days if everyone participates.
The 14,000 cast include custodial, attractions, merchandise, food/beverage, entertainment costuming and more! The heart of Disneyland.
Thank you for making this video to bring attention to current affairs affecting us cast members. We love our jobs and simply ask for a better contract.
Food and bev is not part of our union.
i was a shop steward for the union for the main entrance. that union was pretty corrupt imo and didnt really seem to care about CMs. this was back in like 2014 though.
Ex DL CM (7yrs - NO/BC Attractions) here... I quit right before the strike in '84. At that time, obviously things were very different. Wardrobe existed, we turned in our costumes at the end of a shift for a clean one, never ever took DL property home, and weren't responsible for the cleaning. (Really angry you guys have to do that.) At that time, the Master 2-year contract was up in the Fall, and only Cash Control & Entertainment (Characters mostly) were non-union. Every other department was Union (lots of different unions... Attractions were Teamsters, others were a Service Employee union, etc, but we were all governed by a Master Contract.) Also in '84, in the off season DL was closed Mon/Tues, and only open 10-7 so it was much slower. (The training the Admin staff received to run the attractions was minimal at best and ***the strike only lasted 22 days even though we had less power that you do now!***) I know that Entertainment is AEA now, but I'm not sure about all the other departments. I feel they've definitely lowered the Quality of Life for the CMs compared to when I worked there, and wish you all the best in solidarity. I've got current reservations for 3 nights at Grand Californian in mid September, but if you're still on strike at the last date we can cancel, we will. I'm currently in 3 performing unions (AEA, SAG-AFTRA, AGVA) and I'll never cross a picket line!
If Disney management can blow over 188 million on that joke called the Acolyte they can afford to treat you better after all unlike the Acolyte you actually generate a profit for Disney. If Disney is worried about losing money they can and should fire a bunch of their 7 figure execs who do nothing but make bad decisions.
Can Disney find alternatives than just money? I usually trade with people on Offer Up if we can't come to a money agreement. Maybe if you get paid $200 week, you get $500 in Disneyland Merch? Or hotel credits? Resell all the Disney merch for 50% off and tell all the park guests to come by your home after the park closes! I wouldn't mind working for no money in exchange for a Disney vacation. I kind of get frustrated dealing with money because everyone wants more of it and pay less of it. I think it's unfair a mom will cave in and buy a Disney stuffed animal for $35-$40 and know it's expensive, but if it was on Offer Up she may not even want to pay $10.
Thank you so much for this video as a DLR cast member, this cleared up a lot of things for me… there’s a lot of us that are confused about the situation so this helps!
Also, if there is a strike, guests are absolutely more than welcome to continue to visit Disneyland! The magic for them shouldn’t be interrupted or postponed!
Wow finally a content creator making a video for the cast members.. glad to see this
Watching this felt like being back in college listening to my favorite professor. So we'll explained, covering both sides. Well done, Provost Park Pass! Thank you!
40 seconds in and I have total confidence that Chris will not take sides, will provide facts and will be helpful to people watching. Credibility in action!
Hope I didn’t disappoint 💙💚
@@provostparkpass You did not!
Thank you for making this video and having the guts to actually bring real news. I see all the usual Disney channels silent on this subject.
Thank you for explaining the strike situation! We love the Disneyland cast members!!! ❤
Thank you for being great at explaining things clearly. Wishing only positive things for the employees! They are the ones who keep the magic alive.
Ty so much… you have done these type of videos before… explaining Disney business to us…. You are the only channel explaining all this stuff and it actually makes some sense to me!! 😊
You are awesome! Has anyone told you that lately?? Well I’m telling you now! 😊
So nice of you
As expensive as Disney tickets are, I'm disappointed that more is not paid to CM! I won't cross the line and I'm not a Union member. The principal of paying a professional/ living wage is a principle for me
My respect!
The castmembers are everything. Hopefully they can get a reasonable contract.
Also, I love Chris' shirt color!
I agree with your wife, The green shirt with the blue tie looks good on you. Thank you so much for clarifying the strike situation for us.❤
I agree. The shirt and tie colors are great on you, Chris.
We were there and all was good on the 19th! 😅 thank goodness because I had a reservation for this day! Thanks for all your help!
Going for a bucket list trip the 26th-28th. Hoping it’s all good!
i will probably see you there I will there the 26th-29th :)
Me too! Let’s hope we don’t have to operate the rides ourselves 😂
One year ago, my Union voted for a SAV. The SAV, combined with informational pickets, influenced the company to focus and continue negotiations with more resolve to meet an agreement in the CBA.
First thing that popped in to my head was how good your shirt looked. You did an excellent job explaining the situation and the process. I thought about showing this video to my union reps so they can learn something.
I have had tickets for me and my nephew for 7/23 - 7/24 for Disney and DCA. I got these at the start of the year. First I hear Splash Mountain closing, then Haunted Mansion (2 of the rides I really wanted to go on). I'm preying nothing else happens, I haven't been to Disneyland since I was 6.
I am with you, I knew splash mountain was closed but I thought it was opening June 28th but that was for WDW so that was my error but I didn’t know haunted mansion was closed and that was my main reason for going, so I could ride the original haunted mansion and pirates. Now there is a strike, also Disney railroad and space mountain is also going to be closed when I go 😂😭. I am all for a strike because those workers deserve everything but I may get my money back if I can and go to wdw instead because there is too much going on.
Teamster UPS'er here. We got one single $50 check for being on strike for two weeks, and we didn't have a single SCAB cross the picket line
Just wanted to let you know that in California passed bill 799 which lets you collect unemployment while on strike.
Edit: Gov Newsom vetoed the bill. As of this past January, it is dead.
That bill was rejected back in October of 2023
Even if they could get unemployment, it's only a percentage of original pay. If they're striking to get better pay, unemployment is never going to sustain them any better.
@@patriciaaturner289 Because usually union wages during are strike is higher than the $450 per week max you can get in CA for unemployment.
@@MrRobarino True, but unemployment is not meant to sustain your lifestyle, it's meant to be a little help to possibly pay for things in a very short term emergency type of situation. Hell, if you pay into the unemployment system you damn well should be able to take from it when you are in a time of need. That said, yeah, striking should not count, unemployment is strictly for those who lost their jobs not for those who choose to leave.
I’m reminded of Disneys own movie AND Broadway show…
NEWSIES
Which was COMPLETELY about a major company that didn’t treat it’s employees well or pay them fairly.
Based off an actual newsboys strike in 1899.
Jack Kelly was inspired by Kid Blink, and David inspired by David Simmons.
Would the union members come in with, “Seize the Day”?
I feel like it would be a good kick at Disney if they did.
Hey Disney!
Pay your cast members better and TREAT THEM BETTER! Getting tired of these companies treating their employees like trash.
Thank you for taking the time to educate people on how unions work! I'm sure all Disney guests agree and appreciate that it's cast members that make Disney magical (go to another park and you realise there's that extra ingredient missing, it's the people) and cast members deserve to be treated fairly for the work they do! It's a shame that the situation escalates this far.
I recently worked at Disney world fl. And being homeless and sleeping right behind the castle for a whole year and having to walk everywhere was very stressful plus they never really tried helping me progress up the ladder it hurt that I had to leave I enjoyed working at the Caribbean beach resort Centertown market wish things wood had been different
Sorry… But it’s any entry-level job at a theme park or resort. What did you expect? You knew the wage when you signed on - Right? Yes there was a time when you could move up the ladder in jobs like that, but that was a long time ago. It still can happen but not as quickly and more than likely they are going to want you to have some sort of schooling for that higher position OR several years of experience.
Chris, thank you so much for a very clear explanation of how the union union works and how a strike works. Very impressed with this very clear and understandable explanation.
Glad it was helpful!
28% of cast members report experiencing food insecurity. 64% of cast members spend more than half of their monthly paychecks on rent. 33% of cast members experienced housing insecurity in the past year. 42% of cast members had to miss work for medical treatment because they didn’t have enough sick leave.
It is a great shirt and tie combo.
I've been a union member in the past and my dad, step-dad, mom, son's father and grandfather were all union members all their careers. Those good union jobs were why I grew up middle class and not living in poverty. Thank goodness for unions! Unions are all that stand between corporations' power and workers. There is power in numbers and collective action. Wages rise in areas of the nation where there are more unions. Union jobs often provide decent benefits and other important benefits that allow workers to live dignified lives. I'm 100% in support of the workers going on strike if that's what it takes for them to get more pay or better benefits! I'm walked a picket line in my life, too. Solidarity!!
My father was in a union and we had a completely different experience. It was crap, didn't support the employees, and when a strike hit, it was at the worst possible time, culminating in nothing better for the employees. Usually it meant higher priced health insurance deductions with fewer or worse benefits.
Unions are CRAP and need to go.
@@bncsmom1 I understand your dad had his experience. Mine, including when I myself was in a union, have been great. There is no system or group that will be perfect, but unions are all that we have between the worker and the power companies have. The data is there: generally, unions mean better wages, better benefits. I'm sorry your dad didn't have that experience.
You do a great job of explaining these kind of things. Also with the proxy vote and stuff last summer. I love all your videos! Thank you for the positive vibes. You do so much for people maintaining depression and anxiety.
Going mid August. Between the large amount of attraction closures and now the possible strike it’s extremely stressful. Just want to celebrate my baby boy’s first birthday and not think about anything else but the Disney magic!
I am going in mid August to celebrate my baby boy's 21 birthday. I've been paying on this vacation for 9 months. Staying at the Grand Californian which is a dream come true for us.
@@jennifercoulter574 I hope you enjoy the extra special magic of the Grand Californian! What a wonderful way to celebrate 🎉
Thank you and yes we are headed there from FL worried that it can be resolved and the CMs can get what they need.
Thank you for this wonderful and helpful video! As someone with a first-time trip booked later this month, I’m very appreciative of the clarification, which has helped quell my anxiety.
Also, as a union member myself (not with Disney) and having gone through contract negotiations, I can confirm that the vote process and leverage discussions are correct.
Hope the CM’s get at least some of what they are asking for! They deserve that (and more.) Support Disney CM’s! ❤
We have a 1st time trip the end of this month as well and I knew nothing about this potential strike. I had actually found this specific video “on accident”. But with just hearing about it, I am in a panic now with it being just me & my little girl. I’ve been calling to cancel hotel, see my options for flight credits, & ticket refunds. We would love to still go though as this is a bucket list trip. Would you mind sharing your thoughts and what info has helped to make you feel better about it? Asking sincerely, as we want to keep our trip but I don’t want to spend all this money we’ve worked so hard to save to have it not be as magical as if we waited. Thank you!!
@@traceybruns1400 Sure! I get it, an expensive first-time trip; you want it to be super magical! I’m feeling okay with things for a couple of reasons. 1. A vote to strike does not automatically mean an actual strike, or a strike right away, as Chris said. 2. Personally, I’m well versed in many things Disney, having been to WDW a few times, and “studying” regularly. It’s also not a bucket-list trip for me and I’m going solo, so I can easily pivot.
Here’s my advice for you: go on the trip. Unless the parks actually close (highly unlikely) you’re not going to get a ticket refund. Change your priorities/learn what else you can do to have a magical day should your plans be forced to change. There’s lots to do/see/eat at the three hotels and Downtown Disney, both of which are free to visit.
If you’re still feeling anxious, can you reduce any of your trip, such as canceling dining reservations or show viewing enhancements (assuming you’ve signed up for either.) I think you and your daughter can still have a wonderful trip if you lower/reset your expectations. Find wonder and magic in the unexpected.
Lastly, watch a few other videos/channels to lear more. Chris has some great videos. I also highly recommend Mammoth Club, Disney Food Blog (DFB), and All Ears. :)
I hope that helps you feel better about your trip!
Coming from Australia with my family of 5 in September, we will have spent $20k AUD on flights, accommodation and tickets. Damn right the dispute has nothing to do with us and all the other Australians who will have spent a fortune, we will still go. I hope the CMs get fair pay.
Thank you for being one of the only influencers to address this important issues, if they do end up striking I will stand by these cast members and will not cross that line.
I really hope Disney give their workers a fair deal so the strike isn’t needed
We are traveling from Australia to go to Disneyland on August 8
I really hope it’s over by then and our time there isn’t ruined
Thank you for the great information. I really feel like if they do vote to strike, the targeted date to strike will likely coincide with D23 expo. Hope it doesn’t come to that and both sides are able to resolve the issue and come to an agreement, but I would assume that would be the date
@@neelshah3742 makes sense as that would bring the most attention and possibly resolve it fast
TLDR warning, but if you're curious about how union strikes are handled in other states, read on. I only have retail union experience and I've shared it below. But in short if you already booked your vacation don't cancel it. You didn't know about the strike vote, they are NOT striking on the 19th and I'm assuming you already purchased passes as part of your vacation so Disney already has your money. Enjoy your vacation guilt free. This is not your fault.
I used to be in a cashier/retail worker union in NJ and what Chris described is very accurate with unions. I don't know if California now allows unemployment benefits, but I am from NJ and both NY and NJ are the only states that allow unemployment benefits for workers on strike. The definition of eligibility is for workers who lose their jobs through no fault of their own. Despite the fact that we vote whether or not to strike, because it is ultimately up to the union to approve it is what makes us eligible for unemployment benefits in a strike.
Corporations there are still fighting against that because they're claiming that unemployment benefits makes the fight unfair. I completely disagree and am glad the courts agreed with us because without the unemployment benefits they just starve us into giving in which is very difficult for them to do when we can collect unemployment. Cashier and garbage strikes in NJ and NY tend to be pretty short if we even do strike. For anyone who has been on unemployment pre lockdown knows how awful it is and it's better to earn a wage no matter how bullshit low that wage is. However for union employees, the union benefit they pay us is so low that unemployment doesn't require us to deduct that from the unemployment benefit. Trust me you're really not making money collecting both those benefits. The best it does is slow down you draining your life savings because when a union votes to strike you have to strike even if you voted against it. Most union workers don't vote against it at least when I was in that union because we do need it as a bargaining chip. In my memory we only went on strike long term once and it was when our contract was up which it is every 10 years. This time around was different in 1993 because the corporations wanted to remove ALL our benefits because convenience store employees (who were not eligible for this union back then) had zero benefits and they wanted to go that route. They tried to entice us with higher wages like $1 more per hour which back then was considered a lot, however the union shared with us how much more our benefits were worth and it was better to stay at the same rate of pay with benefits. We didn't have social media back then so corporations could very easily fool us and the unions protected us. I'm still pro union to this day because of it. They truly do protect worker rights and within reason. Corporations just whine about them because unions stop them from using us like tools.
Chris, you sir, are always a class act. Thank you for the clarity.
Thanks for the breakdown. I suddenly want to watch Newsies!
Sad that the youngsters don't know what a strike is. I was involved in a possible strike back when I worked at Disneyland between 1978 and 1981. The Supervisors and Leads came to me to ask if I would agree to proposed raises, knowing, I guess, that cast members talked to me about stuff. We approved the proposed raise and avoided the strike. So, Disney actually engages (or did while I was there) with cast members for advice when they're looking at a possible strike. I think they'll get past this without a strike, but things have changed a shocking amount since I worked there. Disney has made some grave mistakes, and seem to have lost touch with their cast members, and that is all on people above the level of area stage managers.
Looking good in Green!
I have a big vacation to Disney next month. I sure hope all goes well.
IF a wife says, "You look cute in that outfit." One MUST continue wearing that outfit for the time being! 😄
Yep
This was so informative and educational. Thank you SOOO much for listening to Amanda and being a sound board. You were so clear and fair and you brought perspectives from various angles. You're the bomb!! THANK YOU!
Thank you. 💙💚
From what I understand. This doesn't apply to the DCA and DTD side for the most part because DCA & DTD CM's contract expires later on like in Sept of 2024 from what I read. From what I understand is if DL side CM's do go on strike. Some DCA CM's maybe deployed to work the DL side in the meantime
Hi Chris. Thank you for your honest and thorough explanation of the possibility of an impending strike. You're so awesome. Keep up the great work.
Oh man, my family from out of town has the discounted tickets. Thankfully we’re going this week before the strike might happen. Hopefully it will be resolved fast because the shutdown was too much for my friend with autism and they will be devastated if they can’t celebrate their birthday in August 😢
Chris I agree with Amanda! you look great in colorful shirts!! You should wear them more often!! 💙💚
Unrelated to anything spoken, I love how Chris wears lens-less frames in these videos. 😆
Thankyou SO MUCH for always keeping us huge DISNEY fans always updated you really are the GOAT!!🙏🔥🔥💯💯💯🙏
We did it in the early 90’s as well…all salaried and nonunion cast members filled in…I got to work on the Skyway and at the Emporium
Chris I ALWAYS appreciate these videos where you explain things SO MUCH! I hear you on the idea that if folks have already paid, they should go and not loose out on their money, and I agree. BUT. I also wish if guests are able to strike as well, to do that. Not just to support the cast members which make the REAL magic happen, but to give a loud and clear message to Disney about how unhappy we've been by them continuing to take more and more experiences away from us while hiking the prices up more and more. I'm really. freaking. over. it. OK, rant over! Thanks again!
For some of us Disneyland guests, it would not be feasible to join their strike as my family and I would lose money on airfare, hotel, and tickets; however, what we could do is not purchase any merchandises and cut down on concessions!
I get why they are striking, but even if Disney put them at $40 an hour, they still couldn't afford to live in Anaheim.
Provost for President (@Disney! ) 😊
Usually an authorization vote is well before an actual strike happens.
A strike authorization vote is a warning shot to the negotiating team of the company & the board that the union isn’t bluffing. It is a sign of solidarity
I have walked out with my union during 2 strikes. My experince is similar to what you have described.
my family and i will be in the parks on the 19th and 20th!! we made these reservations awhile ago, so we will be interested to see if there’s any visible changes in staff (i doubt we’d notice even if there was). good for the cast members!!
What is the reason why they’re debating on going on a strike? There has to be a huge reason or demand as to why the strike is potentially going to happen
I love the green shirt snd blue tie combo!! You should eear it more often. Thank you for making this video. It really helped me understand rhe situation.
Just a reminder that you can collect unemployment while striking. It's literally a law in California so some of this video is a little more dramatic than need be (as he may not have known that was the case). It's not like we don't have money coming in while on strike, but the hope is that it all gets worked out with Disney sharing its many many profits with the people who help make them.
Chris - Thank you for explaining this situation! Disney makes so much money, therefore, they need to take care of their employees. They make the magic happen! I hope the employees get what they deserve🙏🙏
I found it interesting that DCA and Downtown Disney are under a different labor contract and that contract expires in September 2024.
Thank you so much Chris for explaining this and giving us valuable info! Helps me plan my yearly trip from Canada! We love ya!
Thanks, Chris for the factual info. You are amazing! Lots of love to you, Amanda and Miles :)
Thanks Chris for this info! My family does have a trip planned for early August and I was very concerned about this situation. You cleared up a lot!
Chris, you're awesome! You give the best information and explanation of what's going on. That's why I love watching your channel. You're the best. Keep up the great work! 🇺🇸🏰🫡
I appreciate that!
When I was a CM a hundred years ago, I was a seasonal employee. I had to pay union dues but was not entitled to any union benefits. I wonder if a strike would apply to seasonal employees?
All employees benefit when conditions improve.
Well explained. We can always count on you for clarity and the facts!
I don't have a dog in this fight. I haven't been to Disneyland in a long time the magic left with the arrival of Genie plus and park reservations. That being said if Disney can blow billions of dollars in failed projects like the Star Cruiser and garbage shows like She Hulk and the Acolyte they can afford to give their employees most of what their asking for.
Hi Chris! You know what your true nitch is? You are the "Bill Nye the Science Guy: of explaining real life to young people,. Sprinkled in with Disney and theme parks to hold kids' attention, you could consider selling online manuals, which you would have to research, but there are plenty of home schooled kids whose parents would love to buy from you.Think about it, but it came to me from how you explained "strikes" on this vid. Super digestible and you have a way of keeping people's attention. Good luck on all endeavors. I really believe you have a "brandable" personality. Aslo, consider making "subscriptions" available like Resort TV1. I imagine a grandparent buying three memberships for their grandkids. You could have a separate paid channel or whatever. Your lovely wife will help you figure that out. All best! That's it for now.
Thank you. 💙💚
I think the big thing that could force them to close is most unions won't cross another unions picket line which could affect them getting supplies and other services involving other unionized labor.
Love your shirt tie combo.
Also want to point out that there is Disneyland cast members then California Adventure/Downtown Disney, their contracts expired at different times, California Adventure contract doesn't end until end of September. Now being associated with a strike before, no one wins a strike, employers, employees and customers no one wins. Even when collecting unemployment, its some money but not the money would be getting if working and that hole just gets bigger the more you collect it. Sometimes the unions will have their own war chest as well to help pay employees on strike. Now my own opinion if Disneyland employees go on strike, I actually see a series of one day strikes, at the beginning and don't think would really see anything until next month. I believe I read both sides have meetings scheduled either this week or next week for further negotiations, but also all of us really don't know what is going on through the talks and only other thing we know both sides are going to have to give. But also any cast member who is voting I would strongly suggest to do research into every thing, not just go on what is being told. And that is a snappy ensemble there
Pretty scary. I love Disneyland, and I hope that if it comes down to an unfortunate closure due to a strike, it won’t last too long. Lots of people would really miss it, especially passholders and bloggers like him that go almost everyday. 😢❤
This is probably a good sign anyway of why I’m not going back at the end of this year for the holidays, me and my family are just waiting to go next year.
You're the best Chris!!
Chris;
I haven't heard anything about the ongoing union actions.
Are they and Disney currently negotiating a contract or grievances?
Usually a strike vote is tied to voting on a contract.
When we would come to an end of a contract negotiation where the two sides have reached a point where the negotiations have come to an end, the union members vote on the contract, with language on the ballot that states if the membership votes down on the contract, they are authorizing the union to call for a strike. But just because the membership authorities the union to be able to call for a strike, does not mean the union will call for a strike automatically.
Usually more negotiations will take place before a strike is called.
A note to the Castmembers, if you do walk out for a day or more, i will not cross your picket line. Also, while it is not allowed, if you will have me, in my free time, i would be honored to join you on your picket line.
Strength in numbers when you stand together.
God bless
Apart form this very important conversation, I am also curious to see how people will band together to fights against the absurd DAS Pass changes.
Thank you so much for explaining things clearly! This is good video to explain the process of a strike and unions.
your "employee" voice was so funny... lol
😂it was! He sounded just like Mickey which I thought was a cute touch ❤
I work at the airport and our union tell us they try to avoid strike instead they have us all go on lunch at the same time and they march at the airport and or the HR office
Great and clear update Chris you hard work is always appreciated and enjoyed keeping being your amazing self....until we see you in the oark again.
Perfectly explained! Thank you 🙏
Unions are way better than asking for government support. You can get the company to pay up. CEO’s are rich because of the labor who shows up.
Thank you for putting this together. It’s quite helpful. :)
Thank you so much for making this so clear. It breaks my heart to hear anything bad about Disney. We are in the works for a family of six to visit Disneyland. Waiting for twins to get a little older.
This is important and I'm glad you're talking about it.
You could explain a phonebook😂
Teamster member here, Coca Cola for 40 years. If they can avoid a strike that’s what counts. Employees never win.
I love that shirt and tie combo!!
1st I've heard of this so thanks for sharing
Hi Chris! IBEW has members working on several attractions within the park (Haunted Mansion, Tiana’s). I’m curious to see if the cast members will receive support from the other unions working within Disneyland if the strike actually happens.
I’m a union member who’s made the difficult decision to go on strike twice in the last 5 years. Unfortunately my 30,000+ member union does not provide any financial support to members
Lol I'm imagining the hitchhiking ghosts with pickets 😂
Thanks for the info! I grew up in Chicago, a big union town. I get it but I'm sure not everyone does.
THANKS AGAIN, CHRIS! ALWAYS INFORMATIVE!
My pleasure!
There is a common misconception that the entirety of Disneyland Resort (some 35k employees) voted to strike and people go "wow" at that impact. It's more like 60% of 14,000 Disneyland-only cast members after a massive activist campaign by the union to vilify the company. I'm not exactly on Disney's side here since they just came out against Nelson Peltz by saying they were making money hand-over-fist but then also say they cannot pay their employees more. They made their bed.
Where your head was in the thumbnail, it looked like the sign said Arkansas. I was like, Disney is moving there?
Disney would be absolutely foolish to not give in and re-negotiate immediately with their cast members. Because if the strike happens for certain amount of time, and the parks close, that’s millions and millions of dollars of revenue lost. And Disney just wasted $16 billion on projects that were absolute fails. So they do still have a lot of money to make up for and it would be really nice if they could give some of that money back to the community, not just charity.
Good job explaining the facts.
Please don't cross the picket line. I have walked one, myself. My dad has more than once (one time, for weeks, he was the only one at his location and a person who worked elsewhere in the building asked to shake his hand). If you respect those CMs, do NOT cross that picket line!
Shut up
Thank you for the information. You are very good at explaining g it all. Also I like the green shirt and the tie. It looks amazing on camera.
Great video just explaining the facts and not taking sides
Glad you enjoyed
Day 1 of the strike, when Disney is forced to REFUND all that Genie+, they will feel the hurt