Walt Disney World has introduced a doll in a wheelchair to the ‘It’s a Small World‘ ride at Magic Kingdom in a bid to be more inclusive.
Last year, Disneyland’s version of It’s a Small World added characters in wheelchairs. Dolls in wheelchairs are also expected to be introduced to the attraction at Disneyland Paris.
Walt Disney World‘s new doll was added so that even more visitors and cast members can see themselves and their friends and family depicted in It’s a Small World.
“It’s a Small World is special because so many people are able to see themselves reflected throughout the ride,” said Magic Kingdom cast member Jean Collins.
Disney parks championing inclusivity
In a blog post, Disney said it is committed to its “ongoing work to champion inclusivity and are excited for what the future brings as we continue to reflect the beauty of our individual experiences”.
“It doesn’t matter who you are. If you are a guest in our park or a cast member, we celebrate you — your background, your culture, your identity — and we welcome you every day,” the company added.
Among those seeing the new doll for the first time were cast members who are part of the Enabled employee resource group.
“The parks are very special to my family,” said Liv, a member of the Enabled leadership team.
“My sister Chloe used a wheelchair, so to see a character in such an iconic attraction that puts the spotlight on accessibility makes my heart feel full.”
Designed by Disney artist Mary Blair, It’s a Small World first opened at Disneyland in California in 1966.
Speaking last year, Erin Quintanilla, the manager of accessibility for Disneyland, told CNN: “I feel seen. I feel represented.
“It’s a monumental moment to have my community be in an attraction and represented.”
Images: Disney
