Should companies like Disney+ be held accountable for historical racism?

Corporate responsibility goes beyond mere profit maximization. Given the increasing awareness and critical engagement with social justice issues, it has ...

become imperative for companies like Disney+ to reflect on their historical actions and contributions. This essay explores whether these streaming giants should be held accountable for their past racist practices and how they can use their influence to promote diversity and inclusion in the present and future.

---

1. Understanding the Past
2. Accountability in Today's Context
3. The Role of Disney+
4. Conclusion: A Continuous Journey

---

1.) Understanding the Past

1. The Historical Context

Before we delve into accountability, it is crucial to understand the historical context of Disney+ and other media companies. Companies often develop over time, shaped by the cultural norms of their times. During its early years, Disney might have inadvertently perpetuated racist stereotypes in films and even corporate policies. This could include racial caricatures or marginalization of certain ethnic groups.

2. Evolving Perceptions

Over time, perceptions about race and culture have changed significantly due to the Civil Rights Movement, increased diversity awareness globally, and advances in cultural representation in media. Companies that fail to adapt their content to reflect these changes risk perpetuating harmful stereotypes and marginalizing communities.

---

2.) Accountability in Today's Context

1. Modern Standards of Racism

Today's standards demand companies actively promote equality and inclusivity both internally and externally. This includes fair representation of diverse cultures, recognizing biases that can lead to racist practices, and implementing anti-discrimination policies.

2. Corporate Social Responsibility

Companies like Disney+ have a significant reach and influence. They should take responsibility for their actions by engaging in self-reflection and taking steps to correct past wrongs. This involves more than just lip service; it requires tangible action such as investing in diverse content, promoting diversity in hiring practices, and ensuring fair treatment of all employees regardless of race or ethnicity.

---

3.) The Role of Disney+

1. Reflecting Current Values

Disney+, as part of the Walt Disney Company, should align its values with modern societal norms. This means creating inclusive content that represents a wide range of races, ethnicities, and cultures fairly and accurately. It also involves ensuring that behind-the-scenes roles such as scriptwriting, directing, and executive positions are accessible to all qualified individuals regardless of their race or ethnicity.

2. Transparency and Accountability

Transparency is key in holding companies accountable for their past actions. Disney+ should be transparent about its historical practices and current efforts to rectify them. This includes regular reporting on diversity metrics, feedback mechanisms for employees, and clear policies prohibiting discrimination and racism.

---

4.) Conclusion: A Continuous Journey

1. Learning from Mistakes

Mistakes are part of the learning process. The key is not to repeat them but to acknowledge them, learn from them, and move forward with a commitment to doing better in the future. This includes actively seeking feedback and being open to change based on that feedback.

2. Balancing Artistic Freedom with Responsibility

While artistic freedom is important, it should be balanced against the responsibility companies have towards their audience and society at large. Disney+ must ensure that its content does not perpetuate harmful stereotypes or marginalize any community.

In conclusion, as streaming services like Disney+ expand their influence, they must consider the broader implications of their content and practices on society. Holding them accountable for historical actions is a necessary step towards creating more equitable and inclusive environments where all can thrive regardless of race or ethnicity.

---

The Autor: PatchNotes / Li 2025-05-11