Actors Equity Union calls for Disney World to delay reopening
The Actors Equity Union that represents many of Walt Disney World performers is calling for Disney World to delay its reopening.
The call comes after Disneyland has delayed its reopening and calls from some cast members and other for Disney World to join as the number of COVID-19 cases alarmingly rise again in Florida.
On June 24, Florida reported 5,004 new COVID-19 cases and 46 Florida resident deaths.
“If Disneyland has postponed, it is unclear how Walt Disney World can responsibly move toward reopening when coronavirus cases are much worse in Florida,” said Mary McColl, executive director of Actors’ Equity Association.
“For weeks, we have made it clear to Disney that testing is a fundamental part of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for everyone, from the guests to the cast. It is deeply disturbing that while coronavirus cases in Florida surge, Disney is refusing to provide regular testing to one of the few groups of workers in the park who by the very nature of their jobs, cannot use personal protective equipment. Now is the time for Disney to pause, focus on the science and put the safety of their actors and stage managers first by making regular testing available,” McColl wrote.
