Where we may differ is in the tactics to get there. “We all share the same goal of a more tolerant, respectful world. “I don’t want anyone to mistake a lack of a statement for a lack of support,” Chapek wrote in the memo. Simply put, they can be counterproductive and undermine more effective ways to achieve change.”Ĭhapek added that despite not releasing a public statement, Disney stands with its LGBTQ+ employees, but also said the company has “more work to do.” “Instead, the are often weaponized by one side or the other to further divide and inflame. “As we have seen time and again, corporate statements do very little to change outcomes or minds,” the memo read. “That disappointment was compounded by the fact that, while not perfect, our company has a long history of supporting the LGBTQ+ community,” the memo read.īut Chapek said the decision not to release a statement was because “they are often weaponized” to “further divide and inflame.” In the memo obtained by Spectrum News, Chapek acknowledged that there was “disappointment” from employees when the company didn’t issue a public statement condemning the legislation. On Monday, Disney CEO Bob Chapek sent out a memo to staff, addressing the company’s response to the controversial bill. Related Coverage: Hundreds walk out of Winter Park High in protest of bill dubbed 'Don't Say Gay'.The company has received backlash for not taking a public stance against the legislation.Chapek sent out a memo to staff on Monday expressing support for the LGBTQ+ community.Disney CEO Bob Chapek has addressed the company's response to Florida's so-called 'Don't Say Gay' bill.Robert, our COO/Co-CEO, served as Director of Entertainment during the 20 events. Today, Orlando’s October Pride event is called Come Out With Pride and has been celebrated on the second Saturday in October since 2005 to correspond as closely as possible to the 11 th, the annual date of International Coming Out Day.Ģ6Health is thrilled to serve as a Diamond Sponsor for this year’s event, as Dr. In 2005, the local LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce, whose board I was on, decided to revive the event.” The Pride Parade struggled for acceptance and the City fought its existence at every turn. David Baker-Hargrove remembers, “Back in the ’90s, the City of Orlando was not the celebration of diversity we enjoy today. Orlando’s first Pride Parade was held in 1991 as part of a small rally organized by Orlando Regional Pride. On this day we celebrate LGBTQ+ visibility and encourage people to come out and be their true selves. Furthermore, October 11 th is International Coming Out Day.
The nonprofit Equality Forum creates 31 vignettes honoring an LGBTQ person for each day of the month. In October, we commemorate LGBTQ people in history. Accessible Language and Transportation Services.HIV, Hep C, & STI Screening & Treatment.Testing, Prevention, Treatment, & Management.Specialty Care Linkages with Affiliate Partners.Gender Identity & Sexual Orientation Support.Gender-Affirming Care & Transition Support.