Disney is keeping to its commitment to diversity and inclusion and plans to include a black Santa Claus in Walt Disney World's Christmas holiday celebrations this year.
Disney has been heavily committed to reviewing every aspect of the company and its content library, including representations of characters in the theme parks.
We have already seen changes made to attractions, including the recent changes to the Magic Kingdom's Jungle Cruise and the upcoming changes planned for Splash Mountain.
The commitment to diversity and inclusion is being spearheaded by Carmen J. Smith, who has recently been promoted to Executive Creative Development Product/Content & Inclusive Strategies for Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, with a focus on Imagineering, including Live Entertainment, as well as Consumer Products, Games and Publishing.
In her newly expanded role, Carmen advises on content to make sure that Disney stories, characters, and products are culturally accurate, authentic, inclusive, and devoid of stereotypes.
During the holiday season at Walt Disney World, Santa Claus can be found at Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney's Hollywood Studios, and Disney Springs.
The first appearance of a black Santa Claus at Walt Disney World may come to the Magic Kingdom at an upcoming night of the new 'Disney Very Merriest After Hours.'
During the ticketed event, Santa Claus makes an appearance in the 'Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime parade' as the finale float which you can see in the video below.
Disney is yet to make an announcement about diversifying the representation of Santa Claus at Walt Disney World, and details here should be treated as speculation.
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