This September, the Walt Disney Corporation comes out as gay as it plans to hold a massive LGBTQ+ rights summit. The conference will be held in Central Florida and will bring together leaders and other professionals from around the world. According to the Tampa Bay Times, the summit is meant to fight back against Florida’s governor. Ron DeSantis, which has itself challenged and opposed diversity and inclusive learning in the workplace. The conference will take place at The Walt Disney World Resort from 11 to 14 September.
The timing not only coincides with DeSantis’ training against diversity, but also with a growing number of anti-LGBTQ+ bills, in particular against transgender people, that are under threat and are currently being passed across the country, including in Florida. One such bill includes the state’s Educational Parental Rights Act, or, as it is colloquially known, the Don’t Say Gay Bill. After the bill was passed, Disney and DeSantis got into an argument as the former opposed the bill.
Along with DeSantis’ anti-inclusive views in the professional workplace, he also opposed the teaching of DEI in colleges and universities, accusing them and corporations of trying to “push the ideology of awakening through the ranks of their employees—and signal virtue in the process.” He had also previously appointed Disney’s five-member board of directors, hoping the legislature would “reevaluate — and even cancel — the Disney special deal.” Ironically, the board had no significant power over Disney content. This included an attempt to ban COVID-19 restrictions at Disney parks and resorts.
Apple, Amazon and more to set up booths at LGBTQ+ conference
The event is hosted by longtime sponsor Disney Out & Equal, a non-profit organization that advocates for LGBTQ+ inclusion in the workplace around the world. They offer programs, partnerships, events and more to raise awareness and “transform jobs”. Out & Equal is currently hosting the largest LGBTQ+ conference that has been running for over 20 years. US companies including Apple, McDonald’s, Amazon, Uber, Boeing and more have booths at the event. Government organizations such as the CIA and the State Department are also listed as sponsors and will have booths.
While the conference is a step in the right direction, it also has its share of irony. It’s no secret that Disney has often struggled to represent queer characters, often relegating them to supporting roles with one-off moments. However, that doesn’t mean that the Disney media haven’t made any effort in recent years with shows like Owl House, AndorAnd Willow. Still, Disney shows and movies leave queer audiences wanting more.
The Disney Summit runs from September 11 to 14. In the meantime, review Saturday night lifeA look at the Don’t Say Gay Bill below:
Source: Collider
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