Disney World and Disneyland have changed their pre-show fireworks message to promote gender inclusivity.
The old message of the opening fireworks at Disneyland and Disney World in Florida was: "Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, dreamers of all ages."
On Thursday 1 July however, visitors at Walt Disney World Florida were greeted with a new, more inclusive welcome message at The Magic Kingdom. Visitors were simply called, "Dreamers of all ages," according to The Orange County Register.
The company has dropped the gendered 'boys and girls' welcome as 'part of a broader effort' to promote gender inclusivity.
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The Orange County Register reported that in April, Disneyland announced that it was giving employees more flexibility to allow personal expression at work.
Disney told The Orange County Register: "Inclusion is essential to our culture and leads us forward as we continue to realize our rich legacy of engaging storytelling, exceptional service and Disney magic."
Josh D'Amaro, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products chairman, announced the policy change on Tuesday 13 April on the Disney Parks Blog: "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."
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Erin Uritus, Out & Equal CEO, told The Orange County Register that the dress code policy change is a 'great moment for people everywhere' due to showing that everyone is included and welcome at Disneyland.
Out & Equal are a workplace advocate organisation who advocate for LGBTQ workplace equality. According to The Orange County Register, they have partnered with Disney to help develop their new policies.
In Disney's Diversity and Commitment pledge, they state: "From our media networks to our movie studios, from our theme parks to our products, very few companies touch the hearts and minds of generations of people around the world the way Disney does.
"With this rich opportunity comes a deep sense of responsibility for creating the most authentic stories and experiences.
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"Today, audiences are rapidly diversifying, new generations are shaping the nature of work, and changes in society increasingly impact employees everywhere.
"Our focus and intent encourages people from every nation, race/ethnicity, belief, gender, sexual identity, disability and culture to feel respected and valued for their unique contributions to our businesses.
"It informs our guiding principles and defines our relationship with guests and consumers, who trust and believe in the Disney brand in ways that are meaningful to them. Simply put, diversity and inclusion reminds us all - from Disney fans to employees - that we belong."
Words: Poppy Bilderbeck
Featured Image Credit: PA