Hundreds of Disneyland employees march outside theme park demanding higher wages

Disneyland workers march for more money
Photo credit KNX News/Nataly Tavidian

Hundreds of Disneyland employees marched outside the theme park Wednesday, hoping to garner support for their demand for higher wages in upcoming contract negotiations with the company.

Workers across four different unions, including custodial staff, food workers, and costume makers, for the most magical place on earth, rallied together in Anaheim.

KNX News' Nataly Tavidian spoke with some of the 'cast members.' Ciin Carranza works overnight cleaning the park. She says she loves Disney but doesn't even make $20 an hour and just wants to be respected.

"The company is perceived to be this magical place. When people hear, 'oh, you work for Disney,' you know, 'you must be...' - no, it's not all magical." Carranza said.

She emphasizes that they are not ungrateful, but rather, they believe the company is aware that most of them work for Disney out of love, and they feel the company takes advantage of that love.

A spokesperson for Disney said in a written statement to KNX News, "With today's rally, we continue to be focused on the wellbeing of our guests and cast members. We remain committed to the upcoming meetings on July 22 - 23 and reaching an agreement with Master Services that focuses on what matters most to cast members, positions Disneyland Resort for growth and job creation, and enables us to continue delivering incredible guest experiences."

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Featured Image Photo Credit: KNX News/Nataly Tavidian