Date uploaded: 2022-03-23 15:58:50

Disney employees around the country are calling on their company to live up to its expressed ideals when it comes to showing support for LGBTQ employees following The Walt Disney Company's response to what critics have called Florida's "Don't Say Gay" bill. Some employees staged walkouts across Disney properties Tuesday, with a list of demands. If signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, the Parental Rights in Education bill would restrict classroom discussion of sexual orientation or gender identity in primary grades, prohibiting instruction on it through third grade in public schools. DeSantis said he plans to sign the bill soon and accused Disney of painting false narratives around the legislation. After initial public silence on the matter, Disney CEO Bob Chapek apologized for not being a "stronger ally in the fight for equal rights" and announced a number of supportive measures, including donations to advocacy groups and reevaluating political giving. But that is not enough. Walkout organizers and supporters want the company to permanently cut off donations to lawmakers who backed the bill and also want Disney to stop relocating employees to the state and stop construction and investment there until the bill is off the books. Other demands include outlining spending and plans for content that increases LGBTQ representation. Without specifically addressing walkouts, a number of Disney brands, like Disney+, ESPN and National Geographic posted supportive statements on social media Tuesday morning. Tap our link in bio for more info on the walkouts and protests, as well as Disney's responses. 📷: @apnews