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Posted: 2022-03-10T17:06:51Z | Updated: 2022-03-10T17:06:51Z

The largest LGBTQ advocacy organization in the U.S. rejected a major donation from Disney this week, citing the entertainment giants regrettable stance on Floridas Dont Say Gay legislation.

The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) announced its decision in a strongly worded statement Wednesday night, just hours after Disney CEO Bob Chapek pledged to contribute $5 million to the group and others that protect LGBTQ rights.

The Human Rights Campaign will not accept this money from Disney until we see them build on their public commitment and work with LGBTQ+ advocates to ensure that dangerous proposals, like Floridas Dont Say Gay or Trans bill, dont become dangerous laws, and if they do, to work to get them off the books, Joni Madison, HRCs interim president, said . Businesses have had and continue to have a major impact in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, from marriage equality to the defeat of House Bill 2 in North Carolina and beyond.

While Disney took a regrettable stance by choosing to stay silent amid political attacks against LGBTQ+ families in Florida including hardworking families employed by Disney today they took a step in the right direction, Madison continued. But it was merely the first step.

In a statement issued to The New York Times , Disney said it was surprised and disappointed by HRCs decision, but noted that the company would remain committed to meaningful action to combat legislation targeting the LGBTQ community.

One of Floridas largest employers, Disney has found itself in the midst of a political firestorm this week after Chapek initially took a neutral stance on the Parental Rights in Education legislation, or Dont Say Gay bill. The controversial bill will restrict how gender identity and sexuality are discussed in public school classrooms, particularly at the elementary level.