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The discourse around Disney’s decision to make the fictional yet beloved Ariel a person of color is astounding. However, I along with many others know why this is such a positive thing and the best decision they could have made.
Ariel Isn’t Real
I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but The Little Mermaid isn’t a real story. Ariel the mermaid isn’t real. Disney has a long history of making over-the-top unrealistic stories such as Frozen where an ice queen can shoot snow out of her fingertips, or Tangled where a woman has magical hair that can make someone young again. Realism has never really been their thing. That’s what makes Disney so magical. However, because these characters don’t have to adhere to any historical accuracy, the decision to make almost all of them white, was harmful. It teaches young children of color who are already underrepresented in the media that even when given the choice to simply draw a fictional character that looks like them, that offer is declined.
If You Can See It You Can Do It
There is nothing like seeing a young black girl’s face light up when looking at someone who looks like her on the screen. It sends a positive message that they too matter in the world of representation. However, it’s not just that. As black women start to dream and grow a desire to be on the big screen themselves, they cannot aspire to be something that has never been done. When you look at Halle on that screen being the princess that many people never thought she could be, that’s super inspiring.
It Sets The Tone
Disney’s long overdue decision to implement more diversity into their catalog sets an important precedent. We will not allow our children to be disregarded and underrepresented. Everyone deserves to see themselves represented on the big screen. Forcing young kids to relate to only white characters despite what they look like themselves, is something we as a society are starting to no longer accept, and I couldn’t be happier. There is room for all of us on the big screen, and this is a great start.
See you all under the sea!
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