Petition Decries Disney's Plan To Reopen

ANAHEIM, CA — Earlier this week, Disneyland Resort announced it will reopen its gates in phases starting in July, but some dissenters have are decrying the move, saying the reopening will put park visitors and employees at risk.

Disney announced on Wednesday it will kick off its reopening plan with Downtown Disney District opening on July 9 followed by Disney California Adventure park on July 17 and Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa and Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel on July 23.

In a statement, Disney Parks Experiences and Products Chairman Josh D'Amaro said health and safety remains a priority.

"As one of the first major theme parks to close our operations and the last to reopen, we have been deliberate about keeping the health and safety of our cast, guests and local communities top of mind," D'Amaro said.

Read more: Disneyland Resort Reopening Dates Announced

Soon after, a petition went up on Change.org imploring Disney to rethink its reopening plan.

The petition was created by someone with the username "We Are Anonymous," who wrote: "As you know, COVID-19 cases are rising and have not dropped. Many people have lost loved ones due to this pandemic and by reopening the parks they are endangering cast members and guests to be exposed to COVID-19."

The statement went on to say, "I understand everyone is rejoicing for the reopening of the parks but not during a pandemic where people are DYING, now is not the time."

Disney said the park will limit its capacity and promote social distancing. It will also manage the number of people in the park with a reservation system that requires park-goers to make a reservation for park entry before arriving. Park reservations are subject to availability.

As of Friday morning, the petition had 21,787 signatures.