“it’s a small world” celebrates the global cultures and heritage of people from around the world, but the attraction became more inclusive in its diverse collection of more than 300 audio-animatronic dolls last night. The beloved opening day attraction in Magic Kingdom has added its first child in a wheelchair to better reflect all children from around the globe.
When Walt Disney World opened its gates in October 1971, “it’s a small world” ushered in guests to a ten-minute boat ride around the globe. While it wasn’t the first version of the attraction, which originally debuted at the 1964 World’s Fair before appearing at Disneyland, it quickly became a guest favorite. A tour around the world introduces guests to more than 300 children and, in turn, offers a glimpse into their culture and heritage.
Just as it is a learning experience in global citizenship, “it’s a small world” also allows children from all backgrounds to see themselves within the diverse representation of its audio-animatronic dolls. A new doll that uses a wheelchair now allows children or family members of guests with different mobilities to also feel included.
VIDEO: New Doll in Wheelchair at “it’s a small world”
The ENABLED Business Employee Resource Group, a cast member-led organization with shared passion around accessibility, was among the first to visit the newest Mary Blair-inspired doll at “it’s a small world.”
“The parks are very special to my family,” Liv, a member of the ENABLED leadership team explained to the Disney Parks blog. “My sister Chloe used a wheelchair, so to see a character in such an iconic attraction that puts the spotlight on accessibility makes my heart feel full.”
Disney’s mission to ensure “it’s a small world” remains an inclusive and diverse experience began at Disneyland this past November. Two children in wheelchairs were added to the Disneyland version of the attraction with the promise that these diverse dolls would also be added to Magic Kingdom and Disneyland Paris soon. Today, guests visiting Magic Kingdom can get the first look.
Are there other dolls you would like to see represented throughout the “it’s a small world” attraction? Let us know what doll you might like to see included next in the comments below.
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