by Christian Bode

California is on “lockdown,” from schools to sporting events, concerts, and other large public gatherings, which inevitably hit one of the biggest tourist attractions on the planet: Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure, which will remain closed indefinitely.

These lockdowns have affected us in many different ways. L.A County is on lockdown, with schools being shut down, and non-essential outings and groups of 10 or more being banned. This, of course, would inevitably hit one of the biggest corporations and hangout places on the planet. Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure have been closed till March 31’st. This is not a shocker to anyone, but for people who know Disneyland. There is no other place that has the resilience to stay open through other hardships but it seems as though this is too hard for them. The reason this is big news is that through thick and thin, Disneyland has stayed open. Through the Ebola outbreak from Africa, Sars, and many other viruses. Through rainy days and earthquakes, Disneyland Theme Parks have stayed open. 

The last time Disneyland closed, to the public without any prior notice, was on September 11, 2001. This date was due to the attacks on the Twin Towers in New York which shook the nation to its core. For many people, Disneyland closure is scary, as it may make some people realize just how bad and dangerous this virus is. On the Disneyland website, you can find a notice about the epidemic and the reason for their closure.

“While there have been no confirmed cases of COVID-19 at Disneyland Resort to date, after carefully reviewing the guidelines of the Governor of California’s executive order, and in the best interest of our guests and employees, we have closed Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure Park,” the statement reads.

The Disney Company has also announced that they will be pausing all charges for all pass holders, so you are not charged seventy-four dollars a month while not able to go. Many people were petitioning for this, as it was very important to many who did not have enough money to even survive the quarantine. The Disney Company paid attention to their family and kept their promise. Walt Disney did always care for everyone, no matter what race or gender someone was. He always put forward the safety of his guests and cared for them. You can still see his ideals shine bright today with his theme parks. As Walt Disney once said, “A man should never neglect his family or business”. We are all his family and will always be forever. 

One final major issue is that of the workers. The Hollywood Reporter has announced recently that Disney will start to Furlough, Grant leave of absence to the staff that have non-essential jobs at this time. This process will begin on April 19th and could affect more families than previously thought. It is not clear on how many employees will be affected but is very scary for those who work as food vendors, or ride operators. As there are no guests to give them work. We must pray for all of those that will be and already were affected by the current situations in the world.