A Celebration of Inclusion
Just in time for the 25th anniversary of It’s a Small World Holiday, Disneyland introduced two new inclusive dolls in wheelchairs to the beloved attraction. This heartwarming update celebrates diversity and brings authentic representation to the iconic message of global unity.
These dolls mark a major milestone as the first wheelchair figures featured in the Disneyland version of the ride. According to Erin Quintanilla, Accessibility Manager and co-chair of the ENABLED Business Employee Resource Group (BERG), “This is the first time someone like me is represented in an attraction at the Disneyland Resort. It’s a big deal.”
Inclusive Design by Imagineering
Walt Disney Imagineering led the inclusive design process. They worked in collaboration with Resort Enhancement, Animation, Wardrobe, and the ENABLED BERG. Their shared mission was to ensure authentic, artistic representation through every detail.
A doll representing a Latin American child appears in both the Latin America scene and the ride’s finale. The outfit honors the legacy of Alice Davis, who created the original designs for the attraction.
From a realistic bend in the knees to carefully crafted push rims, each wheelchair element reflects how a child uses mobility aids independently. Erin emphasized, “It’s also critical that the dolls move just like everyone else in order to be fully inclusive.”
Representation Matters
Sarah Nguyen, Guest Relations Hostess and ENABLED BERG member, shared her emotional reaction. “When I was a child, I didn’t see any representation of people that looked like me… I never thought I would see something that represents me so accurately.”
Collaborative Effort Across Teams
Park Decorator Cassandra Siemon researched real-world wheelchair use to guide the project. She praised the ENABLED BERG’s vital input: “It became important that we all wrote this story together.”
Meanwhile, Welder John Cunningham, who built the wheelchair frame from scratch, described it as a deeply memorable Disney moment. “It’s not just decorative, it’s symbolic.”
Expanding the Magic
Walt Disney Imagineering Producer Michele Hobbs said, “The emotion and sheer dedication by everyone involved was inspiring.” This project left a lasting impact on the Imagineering team and Disneyland Resort cast members alike.
Inclusive dolls are also expected to be added to the it’s a small world attractions at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Paris later this year.
Inclusive dolls are expected to debut at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Paris in 2023.
