Disney recently partnered with Out & Equal, an organization that advocates for LGBTQ+ workplace equality. This led to updating the dress code policies for employees to ensure more diversity and inclusivity. They plan to provide more flexibility of self-expression by allowing employees to choose gender-inclusive hairstyles, fingernail styles, jewelry, and theme park costumes. Prior to this, Disney had specific rules on men’s hair length and sideburns, facial hair, and the restriction of nail polish for men. While a few rules are staying in place, such as hair color must be a natural color, they have largely relaxed the rules including allowing things like visible tattoos. In a statement to the press, Josh D’Amaro, chairman of the parks division, said, “We’re updating them [their policies] to not only remain relevant in today’s workplace, but also enable our Cast Members to better express their cultures and individuality at work…This is just the beginning as we continue to work toward a world where we all belong – including a more diverse and inclusive Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.”

While many of these policies were aimed at improving equality for LGBTQ+ Americans, Disney is pushing to make their parks a more welcoming place for all individuals. This means that Jungle Cruise will be undergoing major storytelling updates since it negatively portrays Native Americans. Splash Mountain will also undergo changes because the Disney movie, “Song of the South,” has racist undertones. The company also aims to make its products more inclusive and they will begin to offer costumes designed for guests using wheelchairs. 

Erin Uritus, the CEO of Out & Equal, described these policy updates as a “great moment for people everywhere” as “these changes will allow cast members to bring their full authentic selves to work.” She furthers this point by expressing that Disney is a prime example of “a company that is walking the walk on inclusion and belonging.” All of these changes are set to go in place on April 30th when the Parks officially reopen. Many hope that Disney being more inclusive and conscious of diversity within their parks will set an example and lead other big companies to do the same.