Disney vs. DeSantis Battle Continues With Countersuit and DEI Outlawed

The fight between Walt Disney Co. and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is alive and well. In the latest turn of events, Disney has filed a countersuit against the Florida Governor in response to his attempt to pass a law prohibiting the company from implementing their recently announced Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policy.

Back in April, DeSantis signed the “anti-woke” law that actively prohibits companies and any other forms of organizations from enforcing DEI policies. He also issued a number of executive orders which further block employers from mandating trainings or other aides that focus on DEI.

Disney’s countersuit aims to block the implementation of the law, claiming it’s unconstitutional and violates the freedom of speech. “The unilateral, targeted restrictions of the Governor’s Executive Order violate the fundamental right to free speech and thought for co-workers,” stated a Disney spokesperson. Corporate counsel for Walt Disney Company have also cited that the law violates the First Amendment; however, DeSantis and other government officials have not commented on the lawsuit.

At the same time, reports have surfaced that Disney is actively limited its hiring policies in regards to the law, as many potential applicants have been denied jobs seem to meet all of the listed requirements. Disney has since blamed the Florida government for blocking recruitment efforts in Florida and other parts of the United States.

Ultimately, the legal battle between Disney and DeSantis has become the most recent high-profile dispute in regards to DEI initiatives and policies. The lawsuit has also reignited difficult conversations on when it’s acceptable for governments to interfere with a company’s internal efforts to create inclusive workers and employee communities. As DeSantis and other political figures across the country attempt to roll back DEI initiatives, Disney was taken on the mantle of championing the cause of diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. However this legal battle concludes, one thing is sure, DEI initiatives will continue to be a hot-button issue throughout the year.