Disney Adds 'Racism Warnings' to Iconic Films on Streaming Service
'These stereotypes were wrong then and are wrong now'
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The Walt Disney Company has added 'racism' advisories to multiple iconic films and television programs available on its video streaming service, Disney Plus.
The warnings appear for exactly 10 seconds on select pieces of content, which is reportedly in the interest of fostering “diversity and inclusion."
“This program includes negative depictions and/or mistreatment of people or cultures,” the labels read.
“These stereotypes were wrong then and are wrong now.”
“Rather than remove this content, we want to acknowledge its harmful impact, learn from it, and spark conversation to create a more inclusive future together."
“Disney is committed to creating stories with inspirational and aspirational themes that reflect the rich diversity of the human experience around the globe.
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Films that were deemed stereotypical and racially insensitive included s “Aladdin,” “Dumbo,” and “Peter Pan," News 13 reported.
A new content advisory has been added to several films and programs on #DisneyPlus that include negative cultural depictions and/or stereotypes. pic.twitter.com/R2CC5YngH9
— Ashley Carter (@AshleyLCarter1) October 15, 2020
The move comes as part of Disney's instituted “Stories Matter” initiative, according to an online news release.
“Stories shape how we see ourselves and everyone around us,” Disney wrote.
“So as storytellers, we have the power and responsibility to not only uplift and inspire, but also consciously, purposefully, and relentlessly champion the spectrum of voices and perspectives in our world.”
“As part of our ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion, we are in the process of reviewing our library and adding advisories to content that includes negative depictions or mistreatment of people or cultures."
"Rather than removing this content, we see an opportunity to spark conversation and open dialogue on history that affects us all. We also want to acknowledge that some communities have been erased or forgotten altogether, and we’re committed to giving voice to their stories as well,” the company added.
“To that end, we’ve brought together a group of experts from outside our company to advise us as we assess our content and ensure it accurately represents our global audiences."
"As we embrace each other’s stories, we embrace possibility.
"And that’s why we’re committed to doing the best we can to represent communities authentically.
"So people not only see the best in themselves, but the world can see it too.”
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Disney provided examples of material that would warrant its newly introduced labels.
The 1953 cartoon “Peter Pan” was flagged over its failure to represent the diversity or depth of Native American culture correctly.
“Dumbo” received a flag for paying “homage to racist minstrel shows” with the black crow, Jim.
“Swiss Family Robinson” and “The Aristocats” both received labels for East Asian and Middle Eastern caricatures.
The new on-screen message appears just before the films start. Titles that feature the new advisory include Aladdin, Aristocats, Dumbo, Lady and the Tramp, Peter Pan, Swiss Family Robinson and The Three Caballeros. pic.twitter.com/lRGJopEizg
— Ashley Carter (@AshleyLCarter1) October 15, 2020
Last year, The Hollywood Reporter noted that Disney’s biggest cultural blemish, “Song of the South,” would not be featured on the Disney+ app at all.
