Disney’s CEO Bob Chapek on Monday addressed why the company did not issue a statement in regards to the passage of Florida’s controversial “Don’t Say Gay”In an internal memo, bill informs staff that such statements are often acceptable “counterproductive”Even better! “weaponized”By those from both ends of the political spectrum.
Chapek says in his Memo that he met with LGBTQ+ leaders within Disney on Friday to discuss the legislation, and he made clear Disney’s support for the LGBTQ+ community and its staff in particular. He clarified that he does. “not want anyone to mistake a lack of a statement for a lack of support.”
“As we have seen time and again, corporate statements do very little to change outcomes or minds. Instead, they are often weaponized by one side or the other to further divide and inflame. Simply put, they can be counterproductive and undermine more effective ways to achieve change,”Chapek wrote. “We all share the same goal of a more tolerant, respectful world. Where we may differ is in the tactics to get there. And because this struggle is much bigger than any one bill in any one state, I believe the best way for our company to bring about lasting change is through the inspiring content we produce, the welcoming culture we create, and the diverse community organizations we support.”
Disney is being criticized for not responding to calls and emails in recent days. Demonstrators outside Disney World and other locations to denounce the bill, and Chapek also addressed criticism about the company’s political contributions to those in Florida who have supported the bill. He did mention that Disney will be reviewing its advocacy at the April summit.
“While we have not given money to any politician based on this issue, we have contributed to both Republican and Democrat legislators who have subsequently taken positions on both sides of the legislation,”Chapek also added. “I can also share that Geoff Morrell, our new Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, will be reassessing our advocacy strategies around the world—including political giving—as he begins to integrate the communications, public policy, government relations and CSR teams.”
Officially, the Parental rights in Education bill is what this bill is called. It bans teaching about gender identity and sexual orientation from kindergarten through grade 3. “or in a manner that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students in accordance with state standards,”Parents can sue teachers and schools that engage in such topics.
The bill is currently on the agenda for the Florida Senate, and if it passes there it would land on Governor Ron DeSantis’ desk.
Chapek referred to recent movies and shows like “Encanto,” “Modern Family,” “Shang-Chi,” “Summer of Soul”And “Love, Victor” as examples of how content is more powerful than corporate statements but added that the company gave $3 million last year to LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations but that there’s still far more to do.
“Our company has been a force for inclusion for a long time—and that will not change on my watch. We all have a role to play in this effort—from the Cast Members who make magical memories for fans and families of all kinds, to storytellers who take audiences on journeys to new storyworlds that illuminate our own, to everyone in between who is responsible for ensuring our culture lives up to our values. I hope we will all continue rowing in the direction of a better tomorrow,”He concluded.