Why Disney Needs to Wake Up to Woke Culture
As one of the largest media conglomerates in the world, Disney’s influence on popular culture cannot be denied. From its iconic cartoons to its Marvel superheroes and Star Wars franchise, Disney has been a cornerstone of entertainment for generations. However, in recent years, the company has faced criticism for its lack of diversity and representation in its content.
The rise of “woke culture” – a term that refers to a push for social justice and awareness – has forced businesses and organizations to re-examine their values and practices. Disney, although a pioneer of animation and storytelling, has been slow to adapt to the changing times and has therefore lagged behind when it comes to embracing diversity and inclusivity.
What is Woke Culture?
Before we dive into why Disney needs to wake up to woke culture, it’s important to understand what the term means. Woke culture represents a growing movement towards social awareness and advocacy for marginalized communities. The term is often associated with activism, political correctness, and a push for greater representation and inclusivity in media and society at large.
The movement has gained traction in recent years, particularly with the rise of social media and the internet’s ability to amplify voices and causes. With greater access to information and a heightened awareness of the ongoing struggles of marginalized communities, there has been a shift towards more progressive values and a rejection of traditional power structures and narratives.
Disney’s Responsibility as a Cultural Icon
As a cultural icon with a massive reach and influence, Disney has a responsibility to reflect the diverse perspectives and experiences of its audiences. However, despite some recent efforts towards greater representation (such as the introduction of a black princess in “The Princess and the Frog”), the company has a long way to go.
Many of Disney’s classic films and characters, such as Cinderella and Snow White, perpetuate harmful stereotypes and reinforce traditional gender roles. The company’s lack of representation of LGBTQ+ characters and people of color also perpetuates a culture of exclusion and erasure.
The Financial Case for Woke Culture
Beyond the social and moral responsibility of embracing woke culture, there is also a financial incentive for businesses like Disney to diversify their content. As society becomes more diverse and inclusive, audiences are demanding greater representation and are choosing to support companies that reflect their values.
In recent years, films and TV shows that feature diverse casts and stories have outperformed those that do not. “Black Panther,” for example, became one of the highest-grossing films of all time and received critical acclaim for its portrayal of black culture and identity. Similar successes have been seen in TV shows like “Pose” and “This Is Us.”
By embracing woke culture, Disney has the opportunity to tap into new audiences and markets, creating a more financially successful and sustainable business model.
The Benefits of Woke Culture for Disney
Embracing woke culture isn’t just about ticking boxes and avoiding controversy. It represents an opportunity for Disney to create more compelling and diverse stories that reflect the experiences and values of their audiences.
Woke culture encourages creators to rethink traditional narratives and to explore new perspectives and ideas. By embracing diversity and representation, Disney can create stories that are more nuanced, complex, and socially relevant. This, in turn, can result in greater critical acclaim, a stronger fan base, and a more loyal audience.
Conclusion
While Disney has been slow to adapt to the changing cultural landscape, the company has the opportunity to become a leader in woke culture. Through greater representation and inclusivity, they can create more compelling stories that resonate with a broader audience and reflect the diverse perspectives of their viewers.
Embracing woke culture isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s also the smart thing to do. By tapping into new audiences and markets, Disney can create a more financially sustainable business model that is built on the values of diversity and inclusivity. Ultimately, by waking up to woke culture, Disney can create art that is more meaningful, relevant, and enduring.
