Disney’s Bob Iger sends memo to Jewish employees expressing ‘deep anger’ over Hamas attack

The Walt Disney Company is the latest Hollywood studio to reach out to employees to express sympathy to those dealing with the shocking events of last weekend in and around Israel and the Gaza Strip. However, it was conducted in two parts. The company received a mass email from its chief human resources officer, Sonia Coleman, providing a list of organizations that wanted to support victims and survivors, including UNICEF and Direct Relief. Meanwhile, Disney CEO Bob Iger sent another, more specific email exclusively to members of the company’s internal Jewish employee organization, Shalom.

“I have had the opportunity to speak with many Jewish colleagues over the past few days about the horrific terrorist attacks carried out by Hamas in Israel, and I would like to contact this group directly to express my shock and sadness. Mr. Iger’s memo says some of it.

“I know that many of you have loved ones in Israel, and I cannot imagine how horrifying it must have been to watch the atrocities unfold over the past few days. My heart goes out to the family and all the innocent people whose lives were torn apart by this unspeakable violence,” Iger continued. “On behalf of myself and the entire company, I condemn these attacks, the hatred that motivated them, and all acts of terrorism.”

The overall message expressed sympathy but avoided specific mention of Hamas and offered a list of organizations providing relief efforts, including UNICEF and the American Red Cross. It also reminded those who work at Disney that there are internal resources for “employees who are feeling the effects of the unfolding situation.”

Read Iger’s full memo sent to Shalom BERG members below.

Dear Shalom Bagh Members

Over the past few days, I have had the opportunity to speak with many Jewish colleagues about the horrific terrorist attacks carried out by Hamas in Israel. And I would like to reach out to this group directly to express my shock and sadness.

First, I know that many of you have loved ones in Israel, and I cannot imagine how horrifying it must have been to watch the atrocities unfold over the past few days. My heart goes out to the victims, their families, and all the innocent people whose lives were torn apart by this unspeakable violence. On behalf of myself and the entire company, I condemn these attacks and the hatred that motivated them.
Any act of terrorism.

I know that it is easy to feel overwhelmed at times like these. I feel a deep sense of resentment as well, but please know that you are not alone. May the memories of our lost loved ones be a comfort to us all, and may peace and love always triumph over violence and hate.

I am sending strength to you all, so please take care of yourself.

bob

And this is the official letter sent to all employees.

This weekend’s terrorist attacks targeting Jews in Israel were horrifying and heartbreaking. As a company, we condemn hate, violence and terrorism of all kinds. Our hearts are with the victims of these attacks and their families, and with all those affected by this war.

Many of you are asking what you can do to help. I am writing this letter to share the latest information about organizations eligible for the U.S. Matching Gift Program that are providing assistance in our region. The list below highlights some of the key humanitarian organizations that carry out important work across borders and actively respond to attacks. These are just a few examples of the many organizations working in Israel and Palestine as part of the company’s U.S. Matching Gifts program. If you have other nonprofit organizations you would like to support through matching gifts, please visit Matching Gifts.disney.com and nominate them for this program.

UNICEF
Médecins Sans Frontières (Médecins Sans Frontières)
international rescue committee
world food program
direct relief
american red cross
Additionally, as we previously shared on MyDisneyToday, we have resources available to employees who are feeling the effects of the unfolding situation.

US Employees: Mental Health Guide and Employee Assistance Program (EAP) available 24/7
Foreign employees: Workplace options using company code: Disney
The safety of our employees in this region remains our top priority. Everyone is safe at this time and we will continue to work hard to ensure their safety and provide support to ensure their well-being.

This is a moment for us all to come together and support each other.

On behalf of the TWDC senior leadership, I would like to express my sincere respect.
Sonia