Disney World and Disneyland have opened their Fairy Tale Weddings packages to include same-sex couples. Previously, Disney required a valid marriage license from California or Florida, both of which do not allow gay marriages. By lifting this requirement, Disney Parks and Resorts spokesman Donn Walker was quoted by Reuters as explaining, "This is consistent with our policy of creating a welcoming, respectful and inclusive environment for all of our guests."
Disney faced criticism for their policy banning same-sex weddings, and recently came under attack from gay web site AfterElton.com, who is claiming credit for Disney's about-face. On the flip side, religious conservative groups such as the Southern Baptist Convention, who have criticized Disney for gay-friendly policies in the past, will no doubt disapprove.
I personally am happy to hear about the change of heart. As Mr. Walker went on to say, "We are not in the business of making judgments about the lifestyle of our guests. We are in the hospitality business and our parks and resorts are open to everyone." What do you think?
Related:
Disney Makes Gay Wedding Dreams Come True from About Gay Life
Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings Now Truly Fair from About Honeymoons
Same-Sex Marriage FAQ from About Marriage
Disney will not have to worry me, wife and Grandchildren ever going again. Let the Gay Elton John and his husband and the likes of their kind take over the park and ride the roller coasters all they want too. We want be taking up any seats.
Tracy & Donna Young
Lawrenceville, GA 30043
I congratulate Disney for working towards an inclusive society. As for the people that are unhappy with this, it’s their lost. Not only are they losing Disney but the opportunity to show their children how great is to be acceptant of diversity.
Walt Disney World should be geared towards children and families. This is not family friendly. Their Gay Day is rediculous enough- Do they have Heterosexual only day?
Families are families, no matter if the parents are of the same or opposite sex.
Disney DOES have a heterosexual day, well, actually is more like heterosexual year: it runs non-stop 364 days a year.
It would be great not to have a “gay day” (which, by the way, it is not exclusive for gay people), but so far, discrimination and homophobia are still running around and some gay people and their families and friends want a day to enjoy Disney hassle-free. Until that day, the day where there is no need to point out that everybody is welcomed because it is OBVIOUS that everybody is welcomed, there is the need of special days. Maybe in the future, Lisa, we will see a totally acceptant, non-discriminating society. I am glad you too are against hate and bigotry.
I think we are losing all moral values in thios country. Our bodies alone tell us we need the opposite sex to enjoy love making and procreation. Walt disney must be rolling in his grave over this one!!!!
I think its great. Its about time we came out of the dark ages. After all, they’re people too, they vote, buy food, gas, rent or buy homes. Bet if you’re selling you don’t ask. Go Disney, every one of God’s people have a choice, but He never gave us the choice of JUDGEMENT. The people acting so better than thou, must be heatherns.
Honestly gay days, though having good intent, are just a hassle here in Orlando. People come out of the parks barking about how its turning into a “sissy nation” and “morals and families” and blah blah blah. I agree that we don’t need a special day proclaiming your sexuality as you go through the park. I however do not agree that seeing gay people in the park is suddenly going to turn all of your children homosexual.
The only thing those chidren are really seeing is the loud bands and huge rides and lines that seem to stretch for miles.
I never think to myself before going to a theme park “man, I hope I dont run into a bunch of gays today…” NO!” I think “Man I hope there arent a bunch of northerners whiter then snow walking around our theme parks in speedos, fanny packs and smelling like b.o. mixed with sunscreen.” Sadly there always is and there are always going to be homosexual individuals. Get over it!