Disney workers rally for better wages

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Close to 1,000 Disney workers are expected to rally Monday evening.

Two of six unions are gathering before the start of union contract negotiations with Disney for 37,000 employees.

The group represents over 20,000 workers that include housekeepers, cast members, custodians and food and beverage workers.

"This is the largest rally that we have ever had in our history," said Disney server Kelly Martin.

"There is so many people that have been suffering for a long time," said Disney cook Isaie Marc. "Come together for a better contract.  That is powerful to me."

According to union leaders, two-thirds of the workers in the two larger unions make less than $10 an hour.

"It is very difficult to live by almost $200 a week, and they work more than 40 hours a week sometimes," said Marc.

Rally goers said they hope the recent changes to Disney prices will be in their favor come contract negotiations next week. Disney raised its prices for a single park admission ticket to $99.

For some parks, it was the second increase in less than a year.

"What we are really looking forward to is talking with Disney about how that is going to translate into wages and benefits for our people who work so hard to make the magic for the guests at Disney," said union president Jeremy Cruz-Haicken.

WFTV