Released in December, 2011, the video opens with then-Disneyland Resort President George Kalogridis addressing “anyone who has ever been bullied, teased, or harassed for being different.” Kalogridis was recently appointed president of Walt Disney World, overseeing its 66,000 cast members. By becoming the most powerful gay man in Central Florida, Kalogridis has created a newfound interest in the company’s LGBT employee group-not only by cast members both gay and straight, but also by outsiders, like us, as well. To learn more about Disney’s PRIDE group, we spoke to the group’s executive champion, Michael Jungen. As a director of experience development, Jungen’s primary role with Disney finds him utilizing emerging technologies to enhance guests’ experiences. In his “extra-curricular” role as the PRIDE executive champion, Jungen provides support and guidance to the group, helping the group form relationships within the company while encouraging Disney’s various departments to use the group as a business resource. WATERMARK: What type of resources does the PRIDE group offer to cast members-both LGBT and non? Speaking to us by email, Jungen explained the role Disney’s LGBT employee group serves in the company’s corporate philosophies, why workplace inclusivity is important, and how the PRIDE group plans to participate in this year’s Gay Days Weekend.
MICHAEL JUNGEN: The resources PRIDE provides are focused on helping every Cast Member be their authentic self at work and in our community. We’ve given Cast Members opportunities to learn about the LGBT community, advocate, be allies and pursue career development opportunities. In addition to meetings, volunteer projects and networking events, we provide resources to Cast on our intranet, which helps us grow and strengthen our support network. We also do projects with the other Diversity Resource Groups at Walt Disney World, which represent the diversity of our Cast and the Central Florida community. In what ways does the PRIDE group participate in that involvement and why is it important for Disney to have such a significant presence at such events? The most recent example is the AIDS Walk Orlando.ĭisney always has a strong presence at Orlando’s annual Come Out With Pride festivities each October. Our Cast Members are an important part of the fabric of all aspects of our community.