Diversity in Disney’s Theme Parks: Is It Working?

Abstract

In celebrating the centennial of the Disney Studios, it is also important to note cultural challenges to Disney’s representation and how the studio/corporation responds. This includes looking beyond their cartoons and films, but also into their theme park offerings, which are arguably extensions of Disney’s animation innovations. To do this, we drill into three popular Disneyland theme park attractions that are simultaneously cinematic and controversial, placing Disney in a delicate balance between the need for renewal and their fan’s reactions to change in any form. Indeed, sometimes it seems that Disney is not responsive enough or that they are too reactive. Our contention is that, in recognition of Disney as a cultural influencer, their attempts to improve representation in the theme parks will help lead to a better small world.

Keywords

• disneyland
• inclusivity
• splash mountain
• pirates of the caribbean
• it's a small world