Disneyland’s unionized Character and Parade Cast Members plan to rally Saturday, October 17, outside the Anaheim theme park. The protest comes amid stalled contract negotiations with Disney.
Actors’ Equity Association, which represents 1,700 entertainment cast members, says Disney has been slow to negotiate a fair first contract since the workers unionized two years ago. The union objects to proposals it says would eliminate paid parental leave and reduce paid time off. It also describes the proposed wage increases as “insultingly low,” including a zero percent increase in the first year, despite high inflation.
The union says the sides have made some progress on health and safety issues but have not agreed on key economic and benefit terms.
Disney has not commented directly on the rally. Earlier this month, the company said negotiations were ongoing, with the next sessions scheduled for October 27 and 28. Disney says it offers competitive benefits and that cast members in the unit received a 4% wage increase in early 2026. The company puts current hourly rates at $26 to $31.27.
The protest reflects continuing labor tensions as Disney negotiates with the newly formed union.