The Walt Disney Company is under scrutiny as a shareholder proposal demands an investigation into its compensation practices, specifically targeting alleged discriminatory pay and benefits policies. The proposal, submitted by the National Legal and Policy Center (NLPC) and Do No Harm, focuses on employees affected by gender-switching advocacy, questioning the company's commitment to tolerance and inclusivity.
Chloe Cole, a patient advocate for Do No Harm, will present the proposal at Disney's annual meeting, sharing her personal struggles with finding medical care and insurance coverage during her de-transition process. The NLPC has also released a one-minute video and filed a white paper with the Securities and Exchange Commission to underscore the need for Disney to address these policies.
Paul Chesser of NLPC criticized Disney's pride in its Corporate Equality Index score, urging the company to extend equal care to those harmed by gender transition treatments. The proposal aligns with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission's stance on discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation, with the SEC recognizing de-transitioning individuals under these protections.
Disney has dismissed the proposal as an attempt to garner attention, but Cole argues for the necessity of confronting what she views as destructive and discriminatory policies. This debate highlights the ongoing challenges corporations face in balancing inclusivity with the diverse needs of their employees.
