Disney+ is once again updating its content warnings for older films like Dumbo and Peter Pan, marking the latest shift in the company’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategy. However, before Disney’s approach, Warner Bros. has taken a more thoughtful and educational stance—one that acknowledges the past while fostering a deeper understanding of its impact. Let’s break it down.
Disney’s Evolving Content Warnings
Disney first introduced content warnings in November 2019, adding a disclaimer to films like Dumbo and Peter Pan that acknowledged outdated cultural depictions. The original warning read: “This program is presented as originally created. It may contain outdated cultural depictions.”
By October 2020, Disney expanded the warning to include a more detailed message:
“This program includes negative depictions and/or mistreatment of people or cultures. These stereotypes were wrong then and are wrong now. Rather than remove this content, we want to acknowledge its harmful impact, learn from it and spark conversation to create a more inclusive future together.”
Now, Disney has reverted to a shorter version of its 2019 warning: “This program is presented as originally created and may contain stereotypes or negative depictions.” This back-and-forth has left some questioning Disney’s commitment to its DEI goals.
In a memo obtained by Variety, Disney’s chief human resources officer Sonia Coleman outlined the company’s evolving DEI strategy, emphasizing values like inclusion and community. However, the constant changes to its content warnings suggest a lack of clarity and consistency in how Disney addresses its problematic past.
Warner Bros.’ Thoughtful Approach
In contrast, Warner Bros. has taken a more nuanced and educational approach to its classic cartoons. The studio’s content warning reads:
“The cartoons you are about to see are products of their time. They may depict some of the ethnic and racial prejudices that were commonplace in American society. These depictions were wrong then and are wrong today. While the following does not represent the Warner Bros. view of today’s society, these cartoons are being presented as they were originally created, because to do otherwise would be the same as claiming these prejudices never existed.”
This statement does more than just acknowledge the issue—it provides context and encourages viewers to reflect on the historical significance of these depictions. By presenting the cartoons as they were originally created, Warner Bros. avoids erasing history while making it clear that these portrayals are not acceptable by today’s standards.
Disney’s Missed Opportunity
While Disney has made efforts to address its problematic past, its inconsistent approach to content warnings undermines its DEI goals. The company’s decision to revert to a shorter, less detailed warning suggests a step backward in its commitment to sparking meaningful conversations about inclusion.
In contrast, Warner Bros. has shown that it’s possible to balance accountability with education. By presenting its classic cartoons in their original form while providing context, the studio demonstrates a commitment to learning from the past rather than erasing it.
As streaming platforms grapple with how to handle outdated and offensive content, Warner Bros. sets a strong example of how to approach the issue with thoughtfulness and integrity. Disney, on the other hand, still has work to do to align its actions with its stated DEI values.
In the end, it’s not just about adding a disclaimer—it’s about fostering a deeper understanding of the past and using it to create a more inclusive future.
