Disneyland removes 'zip-a-dee-doo-dah' from parade over ties to controversial 1946 film
'Zip-a-dee-doo-dah' originated in the 1946 film 'Song of the South,' which has been criticized for idealistic view of th post-war South and racial stereotypes
Disneyland has removed the phrase "zip-a-dee-doo-dah" from the music of its in-park parades due to racial sensitivity concerns.
The phrase was previously used in the music of the Disney "Magic Happens" parades before the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic forced the events to cease performance, according to the OC Register.
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Mickey Mouse participates in a parade during a 100-year celebration focusing on the Walt Disney Co. turning 100, at Disneyland. (Dania Maxwell / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images. / Getty Images)
Disney made the change due to the phrase's origin in the 1946 film "Song of the South," long criticized for its idealistic portrayal of the post-war South and racial stereotypes.
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Multiple park attractions and events referencing "Song of the South" have been closed or altered by Disney in recent years as the company continues to distance itself from the film.
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Minnie Mouse participates in a parade during a 100-year celebration focusing on the Walt Disney Co. turning 100, at Disneyland. (Dania Maxwell / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images. / Getty Images)
Walt Disney World permanently shut down Splash Mountain in January because it features characters and music from the movie.
The ride, which is now shut down for a revamped attraction that is scheduled to open in 2024, broke a Walt Disney World record on its final day of operation.
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Views of Splash Mountain are seen at Walt Disney World Resort's Magic Kingdom. (Bryan R. Smith/AFP via Getty Images. / Getty Images)
In a previous statement, Disney said, "With this longstanding history of updating attractions and adding new magic, the re-theming of Splash Mountain is of particular importance today. The new concept is inclusive – one that all of our guests can connect with and be inspired by, and it speaks to the diversity of the millions of people who visit our parks each year."