People are seen gathering at the Magic Kingdom theme park before the “Festival of Fantasy” parade at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, U.S., July 30, 2022.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Disney have reached a settlement agreement in their lawsuit over the control of Walt Disney World’s governing district.
The board members of the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District met and unanimously approved the settlement agreement, effectively bringing an end to the nearly two-year-long legal battle. This dispute was initiated when Governor DeSantis took control of the district, following Disney’s objection to Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” law.
DeSantis-controlled Disney World district eliminates diversity and equity initiatives
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis championed the 2022 law that prohibits teaching about sexual orientation and gender identity in early grade classrooms. In his speeches, he frequently targeted Disney, but he suspended his presidential campaign earlier this year.
In response to Disney’s opposition, DeSantis seized control of the governing district by passing legislation through the Republican-controlled Florida Legislature and appointing a new board of supervisors. Disney filed a lawsuit against DeSantis and his appointees, arguing that their freedom of speech was violated for speaking out against the legislation. However, a federal judge dismissed the lawsuit in January.
The control of the district at Disney World underwent a change of hands, transitioning from Disney allies to DeSantis appointees in early 2020. Prior to this shift, the Disney supporters on the board had signed agreements with Disney that granted the company control over design and construction at the theme park.
“Disney appeals dismissal of free speech lawsuit as DeSantis encourages company to ‘move on'”
Disney has filed an appeal after the dismissal of a lawsuit related to free speech. Governor DeSantis has expressed his opinion that Disney should let the matter go and move forward.
The newly appointed individuals by DeSantis argued that the last-minute agreements weakened their authority, leading the district to file a lawsuit against the company in a state court in Orlando, seeking to nullify the contracts.
Disney has filed counterclaims in the state court, seeking to have the agreements declared as valid and enforceable.
