In an effort to make all Guests regardless of gender identity feel welcome at the park, the Oriental Land Company has changed the wording of all in-park announcements at Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, according to Huffington Post Japan and a number of Twitter users.

According to the Huffington Post JP, the change began on March 18th at both parks. Previously, announcements at the parks would begin with “Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls”, with the introduction now changed to “Welcome everyone to Tokyo Disneyland/DisneySea”. The change can be heard in this video:

This change only affects the English announcements, as Japanese announcements have always used a gender-neutral term. An Oriental Land Company spokesperson stated:

We want all Guests to have a fun and comfortable experience at Tokyo Disney Resort, and we hope this change will make Guests of all gender identities feel more comfortable when they visit our parks. In consideration of these ideals and in light of changing social norms, we decided to make this change.

So far, the change is only reflected in pre-recorded announcements for parades and shows, as well as at the Country Bear Theater and The Enchanted Tiki Room: Stitch Presents Aloha e Komo Mai. The rollout will extend to more attractions in the coming months.

Disney Parks around the world have taken steps recently to be more inclusive of all Guests, including featuring same-sex couples and disabled children on the cover of park Guide Maps. Additionally, the Walt Disney Company introduced “inclusion” as its fifth key in Cast Member training last September.

Do you feel like this change will make your visit to Tokyo Disney Resort feel more inclusive? Be sure to let us know in the comments below!