Dana Walden’s Memo to Disney Staff in Wake of Tragic Israel-Hamas Conflict

In response to the tragic and devastating events unfolding since Hamas launched an attack on Israel, Dana Walden, co-chair of Disney Entertainment, penned a heartfelt memo addressed to all Disney Entertainment employees on Friday, reflecting on the harrowing week that had transpired.

Walden’s exclusive memo, obtained by Variety, began with a somber acknowledgment, “Tomorrow marks one week since the world changed forever with the worst attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust.” She expressed the profound impact of the recent events, saying, “There are moments in history where the horror and heartbreak are so overwhelming, no words feel sufficient. This is one of those moments.”

The letter continued, reflecting the deep emotions of the co-chair and her colleagues, “Like all of you, I am devastated for the innocent lives lost in the region. I am also angry — that this act of evil and cowardice by Hamas has torn apart families and stolen loved ones long before their time.”

As a Jewish executive, Walden’s message carried significant weight, emphasizing the collective commitment to addressing the profound loss and devastation resulting from the conflict. Disney had already taken a significant step by announcing a $2 million donation for humanitarian relief in Israel. Disney CEO Bob Iger had issued an official statement condemning Hamas’ attacks and emphasizing the need for support for those experiencing suffering, violence, and uncertainty, particularly children.

The conflict had taken a heavy toll, with over 1,000 civilians losing their lives in both Israel and Gaza since the surprise attack by Hamas on October 7. It marked the deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust. The attack involved thousands of rockets fired from Gaza, causing casualties among innocent civilians and a horrific massacre at a peace music festival, resulting in the discovery of 260 bodies. Additionally, more than 100 civilians were kidnapped from Israel and held hostage in Gaza. The conflict had also claimed the lives of over 20 American citizens, with several more missing or believed to be held hostage.

In her heartfelt message to Disney staff, Walden shared her personal experiences of connecting with team members to discuss their “shared fears and sadness.” She expressed her condolences to employees who had lost friends or family in the war, emphasizing the need for unity and mutual support during this difficult time.

Walden extended her gratitude to the dedicated journalists at Disney, both at the local station level and ABC News, for their tireless efforts and the risks they faced while covering the ongoing events on the ground.

In this time of sorrow and adversity, Walden’s memo serves as a reminder of the importance of empathy, solidarity, and unwavering support within the Disney Entertainment community.

See Walden’s full memo here:

Team,

Tomorrow marks one week since the world changed forever with the worst attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust.

There are moments in history where the horror and heartbreak are so overwhelming, no words feel sufficient. This is one of those moments. Like all of you, I am devastated for the innocent lives lost in the region. I am also angry — that this act of evil and cowardice by Hamas has torn apart families and stolen loved ones long before their time.

In the wake of this terrorist attack, I have had the opportunity to connect with some of you about our shared fears and sadness. Some of you have lost close friends or family — and I can’t even begin to imagine the depths of your pain. Others have reached out wanting to know how they can help and how they can support their colleagues who are hurting right now. This is a moment for us all to stand together as one community — to comfort and lean on one another. I am constantly awed by this team’s compassion and resilience, and both are needed right now.

I also want to acknowledge our incredible Owned Television Stations and ABC News organization who are working tirelessly around the clock, and our team who continues to risk their lives on the ground. The stories they are sharing are the ones no one ever wants to have to cover but are so important for the world to see. The 20/20 special earlier this week was raw, powerful and gut-wrenching — and it shined a light on the human cost of this horrific violence.

Thank you all for continuing to support one another. Please be kind to yourselves and each other during this particularly dark time. If you’re struggling or just need someone to listen, please reach out to a colleague or your leader. We’re all here for you, and we will get through this together.

All my best,
Dana