Much as it pains me, let’s talk about Disney.  The Mouse House has been chastised for not speaking out against the “Don’t Say Gay” bill in Florida – especially since it’s one of the largest employers in Florida (to say nothing of their large percentage of LGBTQ+ personnel, many of whom I know intimately).  Of course, it’s not like Disney can fold up their tents and move to a neighboring state – they aren’t carnie folk.  And, yeah, like Alabama or Georgia are better!  Disney CEO Bob Chapek sent out an internal memo called “Our Unwavering Commitment to the LGBTQ+ Community”.  In it, he stated that the company stands with LGBTQ+ employees and their families, but that corporate statements do little to effect change and can also be counterproductive. 

Alas, this only made the situation worse.  Detractors noted many instances of where Disney did act swiftly – including pulling all releases from Russia eight days after the Ukraine invasion (more recently, Disney has “paused” all Russian business).  And Pixar employees took umbrage with it, stating that “nearly every moment of overtly gay affection is cut at Disney’s behest, regardless of when there is protest from both the creative teams and executive leadership.”  It was a mess.  After several days, Chapek sent out a second memo.  “You needed me to be a stronger ally in the fight for equal rights and I let you down.  I am sorry”.  Since Disney had donated to many of the bill’s supporters as well as opponents, Chapek “paused” all political donations in Florida until they are thoroughly reviewed.  Well, it’s a start…I guess.