Disney Quietly Ditches DEI, Waters Down Content Warnings on Disney+

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In the past, the term DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) symbolized a proactive effort across multiple sectors aimed at addressing the lack of diversity in leadership positions, amplifying underrepresented voices, and better reflecting the diverse makeup of the American workforce. It’s essential to be aware that large corporations like Disney might not always uphold an authentic ethos, and their initiatives promoting diversity could be more about public relations than genuine change. Recently, there have been reports suggesting that Disney is scaling back many of its DEI programs following Donald Trump’s executive order to do so on a federal level.

In relation to the DEI rollback, certain old Disney films on streaming platforms such as Dumbo and Peter Pan will continue to have content warnings. The existing warning states that some content “includes negative depictions and/or mistreatment of peoples or cultures.” This warning will now be revised to say, “this program is presented as originally created and may contain stereotypes or negative portrayals.” The use of the word “may” here serves to avoid making a definitive value judgment.

One of the steps Disney is choosing to discontinue is their “Imagining Tomorrow Anew” project, which might seem quite ironic given the growing uncertainty and fragility of life on our tiny, blue planet. As per TheWrap, the program’s original statement outlined its purpose as:

Give a louder platform to unheard voices and hidden narratives, while advocating for authentic representation in media and the arts.

Moving ahead, Disney will no longer utilize the “Diversity & Inclusion” performance indicator; instead, they’ll adopt a term called “Talent Strategy.” This seemingly impersonal label could have been selected at random from a business terminology dictionary. This new evaluation criterion seems to emphasize how each individual contributes to the company’s success, as stated by Disney’s Chief Human Resources Officer Sonia Coleman in an internal memo obtained by TheWrap.

The latest element we’re introducing builds upon key ideas from the previous Diversity & Inclusion Other Performance Factors (OPF), and it will work in tandem with our other two OPFs: ‘Storytelling & Creativity’ and ‘Synergy.'”

This version maintains the original meaning while being more conversational, making it easier for readers to understand.

Well, that clears everything up.

Business as Unusual For Disney

The trend towards less inclusive business strategies in media and entertainment firms appears to primarily react to political influences. This observation challenges the idea that culture follows politics; instead, it seems like both are shaped by various societal factors influencing each other. Previously, Disney produced a significant number of culturally diverse animated films, but this pace has significantly decreased in recent times. Companies like Disney, Meta, Google, and Target, which have scaled back their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs, were once at the forefront of cultural conflicts. However, when it comes to standing firm on convictions, they seem willing to compromise if it means risking shareholder value or drawing criticism from a contentious White House – much like empty seats in the theater for Kraven the Hunter.

The reduction of inclusive practices in media companies seems more influenced by politics. This challenges the belief that culture follows politics, suggesting both are shaped by many societal factors. For instance, Disney used to create lots of culturally diverse animated movies, but they make fewer now. Companies like Disney, Meta, Google, and Target, who have reduced their efforts in diversity, equity, and inclusion, were once active in cultural debates. Yet, when it comes to sticking to their beliefs, these companies seem ready to give up if it means losing money or facing criticism from a disgruntled White House – just like empty seats for the movie Kraven the Hunter.

As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, Disney’s CEO, Bob Iger, expressed that creators might have forgotten the primary goal they should focus on, which is “entertainment above all.” In simpler terms, he emphasized that the main objective isn’t to convey messages; rather, it’s essential to entertain the audience first.

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2025-02-12 02:08