'Many are upset that we did not speak out against the bill.'
Speaking during the company’s annual meeting of shareholders, Chapek said Wednesday he would “like to take a moment to address some concerns that I’ve heard from many about the legislation impacting that LGBTQ+ community in Florida.” Claiming that Disney has “been strong supporters of the community for decades,” Chapek said, he is aware “that many are upset that we did not speak out against the bill.
“The governor heard our concerns and agreed to meet with me and LGBTQ+ members of our senior team in Florida to discuss ways to address them,” Chapek said. “Certainly, the outcome in Florida was not what many of us were hoping for, especially our LGBTQ+ employees. And unfortunately, legislation targeting their communities is being considered in many other states, which means this fight will go on.
In order to combat bigoted legislation targeting the LGBTQ+ community, Chapek said that Disney would be signing the Human Rights Campaign’s statement opposing these efforts and pledged to give $5 million to organizations like HRC working to protect the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. “As I wrote to our employees earlier this week, we are committed to supporting community organizations like these so they are better equipped to take on these fights,” he said.
“Meanwhile, we’re also reassessing our approach to advocacy, including political giving in Florida and beyond. I understand our original approach, no matter how well-intended, didn’t quite get the job done, but we’re committed to support the community going forward.”Subscribe to get the best Verge-approved tech deals of the week.Please confirm your subscription to Verge Deals via the verification email we just sent you.
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Disney CEO Bob Chapek addresses employees on silence over Florida LGBTQ billChapek has faced criticism for issuing a statement in support of Ukraine but not the LGBTQ community in Florida. The CEO doesn't want the company to be a 'political football.'
Read more »
Disney CEO says company opposes 'Don't Say Gay' law in Florida, will meet with Gov. DeSantisThe Walt Disney Company is now publicly opposing Florida's controversial 'Don't Say Gay' bill.
Read more »
Disney CFO Says Exposure To Russia, Ukraine “Not Significant”; Talks Disney+ With Ads, Theme Park PricesWalt Disney CFO Christine McCarthy said the entertainment giant’s total exposure to Russia and Ukraine combined is about 2% of its total operating income and “not a significant number for us.”
Read more »
The best Disney movies on Disney+ (March 2022) | Digital TrendsIt's time to revisit the classic animated films and modern hits that made you love Disney and Pixar, all in one place at Disney+!
Read more »
Disney CEO refuses to publicly condemn 'Don't Say Gay' bill but commits to inclusivityDisney CEO Bob Chapek spoke out about Florida's controversial 'Don't Say Gay' bill in a staff email Friday -- but doubled down on his refusal to publish a public statement against it.
Read more »
Disney CEO sends memo to staff on Florida's 'Don't Say Gay' billAfter weeks of staying out of the fray, Disney CEO Bob Chapek weighed in on Florida's 'Don't Say Gay' bill.
Read more »