Disneyland disrupted by union protest

ANAHEIM, Calif., Aug. 15 (UPI) -- The union representing about 2,300 workers at Disneyland in California staged a protest and planned arrests to raise awareness of their dispute with Disney.

From the outset, Thursday's protest at the Anaheim resort by Unite HERE Local 681 was designed to end with the arrest of several dozen members, MousePlanet reported. Union officials said they didn't want to include active Disneyland Resort cast members among those tapped to be arrested, saying they wanted avoid possible retaliation against the members by Disney.

Reports indicate about 30 were arrested.

Sgt. Rick Martinez, the Anaheim Police Department's public information officer, said the department was aware of the protest and has been working with union leaders so "they can make their statement and we'll be able hopefully to clear this matter up in a timely manner.

Those designated to be arrested formed a human chain blocking a street. Martinez said most people arrested could be processed at an off-site area, issued citations, traffic tickets or both depending on the charge, then released.

Unite HERE Local 681represents about 2,300 bellmen, dishwashers, room attendants and cooks at Disneyland hotels.

Disneyland said in a statement it was disappointed by the action.