A new report suggests Disney’s board of executives may soon move to replace CEO Bob Chapek in response to the controversy stemming from Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” bill and the CEO’s response to it.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Chapek’s handling of the situation, which earned backlash from both the public and Disney’s own employees, has caused the board to lose confidence in him. A source suggested it’s uncertain how many of the 11 board members would support replacing Chapek or are even concerned about the controversy. However, the report cites an executive at the company who stated, “They’ve got some CEOs on there that I think know when someone’s a problem.” He added, “The [chairman of the board Susan Arnold] is gay.”
The “Don’t Say Gay” bill, or the Parental Rights in Education Bill, as it is officially titled, prohibits discussion concerning sexual orientation and gender identity at school in certain grade levels. It was signed into law on March 28 by Governor Rick DeSantis, despite immense criticism from LGBTQ+ rights activists and supporters. They warned that the law will harm members of the LGBTQ+ community and children struggling with mental health issues and bullying relating to sexual orientation, in part owing to its vague language.
Shortly after the bill passed the Florida House of Representatives, students, Hollywood figures and the general public held protests. In response, Disney CEO Bob Chapek, who previously planned for the company to avoid taking a stance on political issues, sent a memo to all employees explaining that, while the company would not be condemning the bill, it supported its LGBTQ+ employees and their families.
After backlash from employees, the Disney CEO later stated, “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… We are committed to creating a more inclusive company — and world. I understand that the very need to reiterate that commitment means we still have more work to do.”
Disney also claimed it would donate to LGBTQ+ organizations, including the Human Rights Campaign. The non-profit declared it would not accept Disney’s donation until the company takes meaningful action against Florida’s bill. It should be noted that at this time, data surfaced showing how much Disney contributed to the legislators behind the bill. Disney later announced it would cease contributions to Florida politicians.
Source: THR
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