Workers at Disneyland have accused the theme park of intimidating and disciplining them for wearing union buttons while on the job. The buttons feature an image of Mickey Mouse's hand raised in a fist, symbolizing their solidarity. This prompted several unions, including Teamsters Local 495, United Food and Commercial Workers Local 324, Bakery, Confectionery, Grain Millers and Tobacco Workers Local 83, and Service Employees International Union-United Service Workers West, to file charges with the National Labor Relations Board last month. The unions claim that Disneyland violated labor laws by penalizing workers for exercising their right to wear the buttons.

According to Andrea Zinder, president of UFCW Local 324, which represents Disneyland's retail workers, employees have been threatened, intimidated, and disciplined by management for asserting their union rights through the display of the buttons. However, Disneyland provided a statement in response, stating that they ask workers to remove "anything that distracts" from the park's "uninterrupted, immersive experience." Spokesperson Jessica Good emphasized the park's commitment to maintaining an environment aligned with its theme and atmosphere.

The workers' claim is supported by Kent Wong, from UCLA's Labor Center, who noted that wearing union buttons is typically protected by labor laws. He pointed to National Labor Relations Board rulings, stating that workers have the right to wear buttons and T-shirts unless they explicitly interfere with their work duties.

If Disneyland workers were to go on strike, they would join a growing number of Southern California employees who have recently staged labor actions, including hotel workers, screenwriters, actors, and auto workers. The recent unionization of Disneyland character performers with Actors' Equity Association further highlights the growing labor movement within the park.

Ginny Cristales, an employee at Disneyland's Candy Palace on Main Street, expressed her readiness to participate in a strike if deemed necessary. She emphasized the vital role of workers in keeping the park running smoothly, stating, "If it wasn't for us, the park wouldn't be open." She highlighted the long hours worked and the dedication of the employees, concluding that she believes a strike would bring about significant change.

As the dispute over union buttons continues, both workers and Disneyland management will need to find common ground to ensure a fair and respectful working environment for all employees while preserving the unique atmosphere that Disneyland is known for.