“As unions committed to the dignity, rights, and well-being of all working people, Service Trades Council Unions and its affiliates (Unite Here, TCU, UFCW, Teamsters, and IATSE) stands in unwavering solidarity with the Walt Disney World cast members whose Temporary Protected Status was stripped away due to the unjust actions of the current administration. These workers – our colleagues, friends, and neighbors – have contributed immensely to the success of the Walt Disney Company and to the vibrant culture of Central Florida. For decades, TPS holders have filled essential roles with professionalism and pride, helping make the magic real for millions of guests. They are not temporary in any meaningful sense. They are part of the Disney family, and they are part of our union family,” says a Facebook post from Unite Here Local 737 Hotel and Restaurant Workers Union, responding to Disney putting 45 Venezuelan refugee employees getting pre-fired on Tuesday.
“The cancellation of TPS was not just a policy decision; it was a cruel and calculated attack on immigrant communities. It disrupted lives, endangered families, and betrayed the promise of protection made by the United States to people fleeing war, natural disaster, and political upheaval.”
“While the Collective Bargaining Agreement between STCU and Walt Disney World includes important protections for immigrant workers – such as the right to be rehired within 12 months in cases involving work visa issues – we are painfully aware that these protections are often undermined by the slow and dysfunctional state of the US immigration system. Some reports put the waiting time for a Green Card at 18 to 24 months or more. We call on Disney and all employers to do everything within their power to support affected workers, including offering legal assistance, job protection, and advocacy at the federal level. We also urge our elected representatives to pass permanent protections and a pathway to citizenship for all TPS holders. No worker should have to live in fear of losing everything after building a life here. We fight for every member, regardless of immigration status, and we will not stop until justice and stability are restored for all those affected.”
How about some star power, like Pedro Pascal or Robert Downey Jr, stepping up and speaking out too? The people that Disney considers irreplaceable would be useful in this situation.