



The feud between Disney and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis continues with Disney’s latest announcement except this time it is from Disneyland in California where there is little DeSantis can do.
What seems to be a slap in the face to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis after he unveiled new legislation aimed at stripping Disney World of its self-granted protections, Disneyland in California announced its “first-ever Pride Nite” to be held in mid-June.
The conflict between DeSantis and Disney has escalated since the corporation publicly opposed the Parental Rights in Education bill, known as the “Don’t Say Gay” bill, which was passed in March 2022.
DeSantis confirmed that Florida lawmakers plan to undo Disney’s efforts to maintain control over the Reedy Creek Improvement District, a self-governing zone that includes the theme park. Previously, DeSantis removed five Disney-approved board members, which prompted a special measure returning power to Disney. The new bill aims to assert the will of the people of Florida over corporate interests.
Florida’s Parental Rights in Education bill restricts classroom instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity for students in kindergarten through third grade. Critics argue that it stifles discussions around gender and sexual identity among young students.
Governor DeSantis has taken a proactive stance on protecting minors from overly sexualized content. In March, he stripped the Hyatt Regency in Miami of its liquor license after the hotel hosted a holiday-themed drag show featuring explicit content with minors present.
A complaint filed with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation outlined the graphic content of the show including prosthetic genitals “simulated masturbation” as well as “graphic depictions of childbirth and/or abortion.”
The ongoing tension led to DeSantis revoking Disney World’s special district status in April, which had granted the company unique freedom in overseeing development and services around the park. In February, he signed a bill allowing Florida to reassert control over Disney World’s special district.
“Look at your watch and you’ll know at what time the Corporate Kingdom finally came to an end,” DeSantis said.
Disneyland’s Pride Nite was introduced by Valerie Lee, a public relations manager and spokeswoman for the company, who said the separately ticketed event celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community and allies. It will be held on June 13 and 15, 2023, in Disneyland park. The special event will feature a “Cavalcade” with Mickey and Minnie Mouse dressed in unique attire.
Disney has already taken huge losses over their woke agenda. This announcement is not only a slap at DeSantis, but a huge percentage of Americans who prioritize parental rights and protection of their children from the woke agenda so many companies seem to be embracing. It will be interesting to see how the people respond.