Disney world has announced that they will be changing the term, “Fairy Godmothers in Training” for employees who dress children as iconic Disney characters to a gender-neutral term in efforts to be more inclusive.
Cast Members who work at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique in Magic Kingdom and Disney Springs who help dress children as princesses and knights with makeup, hairstyles and costumes will now be called “Fairy Godmother’s Apprentices” according to an update on the Parks’ website.
“With the wave of a magic wand—plus a few hands-on tricks of the trade—our Fairy Godmother’s Apprentices will pamper and primp your child until they look storybook stunning. Children can choose a hairstyle then add makeup, nail polish and accessories—even a Disney costume,” The Walt Disney World Website said in a statement.
The entertainment company said the change was made to allow men to work at the Boutiques, which previously only allowed female cast members to hold the title, “Fairy Godmothers in Training”.
Chairman of the Disney parks division, Josh D’Amaro said this is just one of many changes the company has made to allow “greater flexibility” for Cast Members to express themselves authentically.
“We’re updating them to not only remain relevant in today’s workplace, but also enable our cast members to better express their cultures and individuality at work,” D’Amaro said.
The company now allows Cast Members to showcase “Forms of personal expression surrounding gender-inclusive hairstyles, jewelry, nail styles, and costume choices” while working, including to show off “appropriate visible tattoos” as well.
