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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. Where we may differ is in the tactics to get there. We all share the same goal of a more tolerant, respectful world. I do not want anyone to mistake a lack of a statement for a lack of support. Simply put, they can be counterproductive and undermine more effective ways to achieve change. Instead, they are often weaponized by one side or the other to further divide and inflame. We are going to have a more fulsome conversation about this at the company-wide Reimagine Tomorrow Summit in April, but I will preview that discussion now as it is so timely.Īs we have seen time and again, corporate statements do very little to change outcomes or minds. I also believe you deserve an explanation for why we have not issued a statement. I understand that the very need to reiterate that commitment means we still have more work to do. And, we are committed to creating a more inclusive company-and world. 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. That disappointment was compounded by the fact that, while not perfect, our company has a long history of supporting the LGBTQ+ community-and in fact, has played an important role in the personal journeys of so many of our employees. One common theme was disappointment that the company has not issued a public statement condemning the legislation. I wish every one of our employees could have heard not just the passionate voices in the room, but the bravery, honesty, and pride those voices expressed. I told the group I would write to the entire company with my thoughts on the issues we discussed. I want to thank them for a meaningful, illuminating, and at times deeply moving conversation. On Friday, I met with a small group of Disney LGBTQ+ leaders to discuss controversial legislation pending in Florida that would impact their communities.
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Their courage and dedication to informing the world during this crisis is exemplary. I also want to thank the ABC News team covering the horrific events there. This is an unimaginably difficult time, and my thoughts are with you. The CEO said he plans to discuss the issue further at the company’s Reimagine Tomorrow Summit in Aprilīefore getting to the heart of my message, I want to acknowledge all those impacted by the invasion of Ukraine, especially our team in Europe and our employees around the world who have family in the region. Simply put, they can be counterproductive and undermine more effective ways to achieve change.” “Instead, they are often weaponized by one side or the other to further divide and inflame. “As we have seen time and again, corporate statements do very little to change outcomes or minds,” Chapek added. Chapek addressed both issues in his memo, saying that the company’s new chief corporate affairs officer, Geoff Morrell, would be “reassessing our advocacy strategies around the world - including political giving - as he begins to integrate the communications, public policy, government relations and CSR teams.” (He also noted that the company has supported politicians who have “taken positions on both sides of the legislation.”)Īs for the decision not to release a statement, he told staff, “I do not want anyone to mistake a lack of a statement for a lack of support.” Disney's National Geographic Hires Nathan Lump as Editor in Chiefĭisney has been taking heat in recent weeks for declining to release a statement about the bill and for donating money to statewide elected officials who supported the bill.