Disney: its new CEO talks about “Don’t Say Gay”, the law that pits the company against Florida Republicans

Disney releases in the first quarter of this year were punctuated by two controversies that were closely related to each other: The inclusion of a kiss between two women in his hit film light years and, also, the position of the company against the bill, finally approved in Florida, known as “Don’t Say Gay” (“Don’t Say Gay”).

The law drew sympathy among conservative groups in the state, but also strong criticism from opponents, which also had ramifications within the entertainment company.

Promoted by the Republican Party, The law has sparked controversy by barring teachers from discussing sexual orientation and gender identity in the classroom. The measure has been opposed by both politicians on the Democratic wing and civil society organizations who argue “Don’t Say Gay” The marginalization of the LGBTIQ+ community in Florida will have serious ramifications.

This week, Newly appointed CEO Bob Iger shared a meeting with his employees and one of the main topics was The place that makes issues of inclusion a priority at Disney.

In March, the controversy focused on Disney after some media He assured that the entertainment giant was not only in favor of the project but had allocated resources to finance its promotersThe criticism came from within, with employees raising their voice against the silence of the company.

those days, bob chapekwho succeeded Iger to the executive position earlier this month, was informed in an internal message shared by DiversityWho supported organizations in defense of diversity: “I don’t want anyone to confuse lack of announcement with lack of support. We all share the same goal of a more tolerant and respectful world. In the strategy of getting where we can differ.” The statement was dubbed “nostalgic” by various organizations.

this Monday, Bob Iger Responds to Employees’ Concerns The meeting lasted for 45 minutes and where he asked them about their position on the law against the LGBTIQ+ community.

cnbc He shared part of what the executive said in the private meeting. “This company has been telling stories for 100 years, and those stories have had a significant and positive impact on the world. And there’s reason Core values ​​of our narrative such as inclusion, acceptance and tolerance. we can’t lose herIger said.

Internal pressure from employees prompted Bob Chapek to speak out against the initiative in March. In reply, Governor Ron DeSantis Signed removal of favorable tax status enjoyed by Disney in Florida since 1960 And it offered autonomy to local management.

this is One of the themes that marked the beginning of the management of Bob Iger Those on either spectrum, such as Disney’s CEO, will face resistance from conservative lawmakers and employees calling for a pro-inclusion stance.

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