Disney continues to refine its legendary "Disney Look" with some major changes for 2021 as the company shifts to a policy of inclusion.
In a statement today, Disney Parks chairman Josh D'Amaro said, "The world is changing, and we will change with it, and continue to be a source of joy and inspiration for all the world. We’ll never stop working to make sure that Disney is a welcoming place for all."
In the latest revision of the "Disney Look" which impacts all of Walt Disney World's Cast Members, all references to gender have been removed, focussing on the Cast as one.
All Cast Members now have the same options, which includes makeup, jewelry and nail polish.
For the first time, visible tattoos on Cast Members are now permitted, except on the face, head or neck. The size must be no larger than the Cast Member's hand. Obviously, tattoos that are offensive are not acceptable.
Hairstyle and length is now at the discretion of the Cast Member, and can now include a full shaven look, even including lines and shapes, as long as they are not offensive. Non-natural colors such as green and pink are not permitted.
Restrictions on facial hair have been significantly relaxed, with all mentions of length and shapes removed. The only requirement now is that facial hair should be groomed and well maintained.
Two earrings per ear are now permitted, with a maximum size of 2 inches.
Nail polish continues to be limited to one solid color or a French manicure look, decals and charms are not allowed. Nail length is capped at a quarter of an inch beyond the fingertip.
Josh D'Amaro, Chairman Disney Parks Experiences and Products said, "Our new approach provides greater flexibility with respect to forms of personal expression surrounding gender-inclusive hairstyles, jewelry, nail styles, and costume choices; and allowing appropriate visible tattoos. We’re updating them to not only remain relevant in today’s workplace, but also enable our cast members to better express their cultures and individuality at work.
Moving forward, we believe our cast, who are at the center of the magic that lives in all our experiences, can provide the best of Disney’s legendary guest service when they have more options for personal expression – creating richer, more personal and more engaging experiences with our guests."
The new "Disney Look" is expected to come into effect for Walt Disney World Cast Members over the next couple of weeks.
The famous "Disney Look" dates back to the late 1950's and was strictly enforced for decades. Originally, a clean shave and neat haircuts were an absolute requirement to work at the parks. Disney has made several moves in recent years to gradually relax the guidelines.
The changes to the look also come alongside an update to the legendary Four Keys foundation, which now includes a fifth key - Inclusion.
For more than 60 years, the Four Keys of Safety, Courtesy, Show, and Efficiency have been instilled in every Cast Member from day one of their Traditions training, and is a guiding principle of guest service for the company.
The new key represents the company's commitment to cultural transformation, and with it being part of the keys, it will be part of everyday working life for Cast Members.
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