Anaheim cast members have ratified their three-year contract with Disney that included an immediate 20 percent increase in their base pay, union officials said.
Last week, a coalition of four unions announced that the two sides had reached a tentative agreement. The deal came days after a strike at theme parks and surrounding hotels was authorized. The agreement averted what could have been a disaster. first strike at Disneyland Resort in 40 years.
The bloc, Disney Workers Rising, represents 14,000 employees working at Disneyland, Disney California Adventure Downtown Disney and Disney Hotels. Cast member is an umbrella term for Disney employees, including confectioners, cashiers, janitors, ride operators and others.
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After months of negotiations, the workers won a three-year contract that provides most of them with a $6.10 raise over the next few years in addition to an instant $4.10 increase in their minimum base wage.
“Together, by wearing badges, participating in rallies, and sharing their stories with the public, cast members have fought for a brighter future for themselves, their colleagues, and their families,” the Disney Workers Rising bargaining committee said. “These contracts are historic for Disney cast members, and we are pleased that their lives are improving because of them.”
In addition, the contract grants:
- Increased longevity of senior cast members
- Improvements to attendance policy and sick leave
- new bonuses for cast members
“By ratifying these contracts, Disney Cast Members have secured historic raises and policies and protections that reflect their role as creators of magic at Disney Parks,” the bargaining committee said.
The union coalition includes Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco and Grain Millers (BCTGM) Local 83, Teamsters Local 495, United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 324 and SEIU-United Service Workers West (SEIU-USWW).
During negotiations, the cast members filed a unfair labor practice charge alleging they were treated unfairly for wearing union badges while working.
