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Disney to allow gender-fluidity and tattoos for cast members

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disney inclusivity

Disney Parks are becoming more inclusive, with the company updating its rules for cast members to allow gender-fluidity and tattoos.

Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, shared the news on the Disney Parks Blog where he said “the magic we make must include everyone”.

“It’s important to me to share how we’re creating a place where everyone is welcome and taking action to create meaningful change,” he wrote.

Disney is already making its attractions more inclusive, with upcoming enhancements to Jungle Cruise and a complete reimagining of Splash Mountain to include Princess Tiana.

“We want our guests to see their own backgrounds and traditions reflected in the stories, experiences and products they encounter in their interactions with Disney,” D’Amaro added.

Disney becoming more inclusive

Disney previously gathered input from cast members, and is including more diverse companies in its supply chain as it increases representation and accountability.

“And we want our cast members – and future cast members – to feel a sense of belonging at work,” D’Amaro wrote. “That means cultivating an environment where all people feel welcomed and appreciated for their unique life experiences, perspectives and culture.”

The company has updated its staff guidelines to reflect a more flexible approach to “personal expression”, which includes allowing gender-inclusive hairstyles, jewellery, nail styles and costume choices, as well as appropriate tattoos.

“We’re updating them to not only remain relevant in today’s workplace, but also enable our cast members to better express their cultures and individuality at work,” said D’Amaro.

Staff can have gender-inclusive look

“We believe our cast… can provide the best of Disney’s legendary guest service when they have more options for personal expression – creating richer, more personal and more engaging experiences with our guests.”

Disney Parks have a tradition of ‘the four keys’, which are safety, courtesy, show and efficiency. The company has now added a fifth key of inclusion.

D’Amaro said this is “just the beginning” for Disney theme parks. “There’s more to do, but we’re committed to listening, learning and making meaningful improvements.”

“The world is changing, and we will change with it, and continue to be a source of joy and inspiration for all the world,” he wrote. “We’ll never stop working to make sure that Disney is a welcoming place for all.”

Images: Disney

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Bea Mitchell

Bea is a journalist specialising in entertainment, attractions and tech with 10 years' experience. She has written and edited for publications including CNET, BuzzFeed, Digital Spy, Evening Standard and BBC. Bea graduated from King's College London and has an MA in journalism.

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