Disney CEO Bob Chapek has clarified the company’s response to what has been dubbed Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” bill.
The Walt Disney Company received backlash from fans and institutions across the world when it was revealed that they had allegedly donated to the sponsors and co-sponsors of Florida’s Parental Rights in Education bill. Critics have dubbed it as the “Don’t Say Gay” bill, which would prohibit the “classroom discussion about sexual orientation or gender identity” from kindergarten to Grade 3.
Disney CEO Bob Chapek sent a company-wide email prior to the voting to address the concerns of employees. The Hollywood Reporter managed to get their hands on the e-mail which sees Chapek not directly sharing disapproval for the bill.
“I want to be crystal clear: I and the entire leadership team unequivocally stand in support of our LGBTQ+ employees, their families, and their communities. And, we are committed to creating a more inclusive company — and world. 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.”
The CEO also revealed that he met with leaders within the LGBTQ+ community to discuss the bill, which at the time was pending.
Disney has received considerable criticism for not outwardly denouncing the bill. In his memo to the company’s staff, Bob Chapek made it clear that a lack of a formal statement does not imply that he, nor the company, are supporting it.
“I do not want anyone to mistake a lack of a statement for a lack of support. 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.”
The Parental Rights in Education bill was passed by Florida’s House of Representatives on February 24th. Disney has a considerable history and relationship with the state of Florida, as it has employed thousands of residents for their theme park Walt Disney World.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter
