From Appropriation to Allyship: Representation of Cultural Values in Disney/Pixar’s Animated Animals

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Saturday 3:45 pm - Gold 4
  In Roundtable Session: Comics, Literature, Animation, and the Arts as Curricular Frames

Abstract

This proposal describes a critical analysis of how three approaches to cultural incorporation (appropriation, appreciation, allyship) were linked to animal representations in Disney animated films. These approaches matter because they reflect the (a) extent to which creators were invested in cultural accuracy and (b) how their positions gave control of how cultural information was conveyed. These approaches aligned with the content of films across the decades (e.g., Saludos Amigos, Brother Bear, Turning Red). Given the potential impact of Disney animated films on children, it is worthwhile to explore the exclusion/inclusion of authentic portrayals via animal characters. The findings from future research can help educators make more informed choices about the value and role of Disney content in children’s hidden curriculum activities.

Authors

• Jacki Fitzpatrick, Texas Tech University

• Rajib Ahmed Faisal, Texas Tech University