Disney CEO Bob Chapek said that the company opposes the Florida bill that would restrict LGBTQ topics in schools, breaking Disney’s silence on the proposed policy following days of mounting criticism.
Disney CEO Bob Chapek said Wednesday that the company opposes the Florida bill that would restrict LGBTQ topics in schools, breaking Disney’s silence on the proposed policy following days of mounting criticism.“While we have been strong supporters of the community for decades, I know that many are upset that we did not speak out against the bill,” Chapek said during a shareholder meeting.
Chapek said the company would sign the Human Rights Campaign statement and pledge $5 million to LGBTQ and human rights’ organizations.“I understand our original approach, no matter how well intentioned, didn’t quite get the job done. But we are committed to supporting the community going forward,” Chapek said.
Florida state senators on Tuesday approved the legislation, which Democrats and LGBTQ activists refer to as the “don’t say gay” bill, and advanced it to Gov. Ron DeSantis . DeSantis has indicated he is likely to sign. Chapek said he called DeSantis to express concerns on the bill. According to the CEO, the governor agreed to meet with him and LGBTQ members of Disney’s staff.
DeSantis’s office said in a statement that this was the first time his office heard from Disney on the bill and no in-person meeting has been set.
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