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The Black Lives Matter movement has had a monumental impact on the way companies look at their content, both past, and present.
It has led brands, actors, and creators associated with to speak out against racism, such as passionate protester and star John Boyega as well as -owned and which both released statements in support.
However, a pledge for in movies is one thing, but a new rumor alleges that has bigger plans; the creation of a and Values Review .
Rumored will ensure that attractions and shows align with modern values
First of all, this rumor hasn’t exactly come out of thin air. We’ve seen come under scrutiny since the movement took off, most notably in the form of a viral petition to re-theme the Splash Mountain ride at Walt World. As it is based on a that nobody will argue is problematic in its portrayal of African-Americans, some fans want to replace any trace of Song of the South, whether that be on Plus or in the .
and the  are now looking to the past to see if any previous works are culturally dated and inappropriate. Just this week Gone with the Wind was removed from HBO Max, albeit with plans for it to return with additional warnings about cultural sensitivities;
“We felt that to keep this title up without an explanation and a denouncement of those depictions would be irresponsible”, said an HBO spokesman.
With and each around the world reviewing its past, it isn’t out of the question to suggest that might well do the same for its .
What would a and Values Review actually do?
We expect that if a did come into being, it’s primary purpose would be to ensure that the stay culturally relevant and appropriate. has already pledged to tell and hire in its movies, so it stands to reason that updates to attractions that it considers to be out of touch with current moral sensibilities will be next.
of course holds its to the same high standards and tries to hire that represent a both on the screen and in the . The rumor suggests that now feels that it needs to put its money where its mouth is and ensure that its works to the same standards.
While all of this is mere hearsay, the rumor (from WDWmagic) suggests that the following rides may come under scrutiny and undergo modifications:
1. Splash Mountain
2. American Adventure
4. Country Bear Jamboree
5. Hoop-Dee-Doo Revue
6. Carousel of Progress
7. It’s a Small World
8. Peter Pan’s Flight
already has a , Latondra Newton. Whether this alleged works directly under her or is a more globalized group remains to be seen. However, if the report is to be believed, this action comes straight from former Bob Iger. When discussing Song of the South and whether it would release on Disney Plus in March, Iger said that the film contained ‘outdated cultural depictions’ and as such, would not be released. Could these same principles be applied to theme park rides around WDW and beyond?
While we’re sure that if the rumor is true, there will be some changes that fans won’t be happy about, it’s good to see taking the issues of our time seriously and ensuring that its are inclusive of everyone.
What do you think of this rumor? Will really start a and Values review ? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.