ORLANDO, Fla. — Walt Disney World announced changes to its employee dress code Tuesday as part of a renewed emphasis on diversity and inclusion.
In a statement posted to the Disney Parks blog, Chairman Josh D’Amaro outlined a number of measures the company is taking to create an environment where all feel welcome.
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In 2019, D’Amaro writes, they gathered input from Disney cast members around the world who offered more than 100 ideas for cultivating an inclusive environment.
In order to create magic for everyone, we must include everyone. Our Chairman shares an update on how we’re building a Disney where all are welcome and everyone belongs: https://t.co/sJNjOlMFgv pic.twitter.com/yUGWv3nVLk
— Disney Parks (@DisneyParks) April 13, 2021
One suggestion they’re adopting is a new approach to their dress code for cast members, allowing for more flexibility with regard to permitted forms of personal expression including “gender-inclusive hairstyles, jewelry, nail styles, and costume choices,” as well as allowing visible tattoos deemed to be appropriate.
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D’Amaro says the change is meant to help them remain relevant in the modern workplace, and to enable cast members to “better express their cultures and individuality at work.”
D’Amaro says they’re also updating some Disney attractions to be more inclusive, creating partnerships with more diverse companies, and committing to community programs.
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“Our goal is to have more representation and accountability across our organization,” D’Amaro writes. “This is just the beginning as we continue to work toward a world where we all belong.”
Read the full statement here.
Cox Media Group
