Following employee walk-outs and backlash from the general public, Disney has taken action to show its support for the LGBTQ+ community and advocate for human rights. The company's new direction has earned praise from major organizations.
According to Variety, The Human Rights Campaign recently accepted donations from the Walt Disney Company. It should be noted the same organization declined contributions after Disney came under fire for its stance, or lack thereof, on Florida's Parental Rights in Education bill.
In a statement, HRC spokesperson Elizabeth Bibi said, "We have been having very productive conversations with Disney about the impact of anti-LGBTQ+ laws and policies and what they can do to help our community — specifically, what they can do to make the world safer and more welcoming for LGBTQ+ people." She went on to review Disney's actions over the last year before adding, "Disney has stood firm in their commitments to our community, and the company has taken real action to meet their employees' needs and lean into their values of diversity, equity, and inclusion."
Earlier this year, Disney came under fire from the public and its own employees for refusing to speak out against what was dubbed Florida's "Don't Say Gay" bill, which aimed to prohibit discussions concerning sexual orientation and gender identity in schools. Moreover, the company was criticized for contributing to politicians who supported the bill, though it should be noted Disney ceased political donations in the state of Florida in light of the controversy.
The Disney Controversy
Disney CEO Bob Chapek sent an internal memo throughout the company, apologizing for the response. He stated, "Thank you to all who have reached out to me sharing your pain, frustration and sadness over the company's response to the Florida 'Don't Say Gay' bill... It is clear that this is not just an issue about a bill in Florida, but instead yet another challenge to basic human rights. You needed me to be a stronger ally in the fight for equal rights and I let you down. I am sorry."
At the time, Disney pledged $5 million to HRC and LGBTQ+ organizations, but those donations were rejected, with HRC stating it would not accept contributions until Disney took meaningful action. After Disney publicly expressed support for the LGBTQ+ community and spoke out against the bill, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis responded by repealing Disney World's special district status.
Source: Variety