A small change to a Disney Parks staple is set to go a long way towards LGBTQ+ inclusivity.
The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique in the theme parks functions as a cute little transformation station for children between the ages of three and 12 to become a princess or knight for the day.
Previously, the cast members who helped the kids step into their fairytale persona were referred to as “Fairy Godmothers in Training.” This was in reference to Cinderella and the fairy godmother that helped get her ready for the ball where she met her prince.
However, Disney has announced that they are now changing that particular job title to “Fairy Godmother’s Apprentices.” It’s a subtle change that will better allow cast members of any gender to take on that role – something particularly meaningful to the company’s employees.
To no one’s surprise, bigots are already up in arms over something that is completely harmless, with Republican candidate for Congress and current Disney employee Jose Castillo telling Fox News that this is somehow proof of Disney’s “radical agenda” and “pandering to the fringe left.”
\u201cOh my pearls! They\u2019re changing the name from \u201cfairy godmothers in training\u201d to \u201cfairy godmother\u2019s apprentices\u201d. The horror, the horror, agghhhhhhh\u2026\u201d— Me llamo Jemes (@Me llamo Jemes) 1658419809
\u201c@NBCNews I know this is very, very, very scary for people, like the switch from \u201cstewardess\u201d to \u201cflight attendant\u201d and from \u201cwaitress\u201d to \u201cserver.\u201d How frightening it is to include everyone. So much better and more comfortable to exclude and be intolerant!\u201d— NBC News (@NBC News) 1658500685
Others have, of course, called for a boycott of Disney over this change.
It isn’t remotely clear how this minute shift in language – which doesn’t erase anything about the Disney canon or create awkward terminology for anyone – is actually offensive or concerning in any way. Alas, some people will take any opportunity to stir up faux outrage and cry about “wokeness.”
The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutiques at both Walt Disney World in Orlando and Disneyland in Los Angeles are currently closed but will reopen on August 25.
