Disney has its first African American princess, Tiana, in the new interracial film set in New Orleans - “The princess and the frog” - which is to be released in December this year. However, like everything tagged interracial, controversy hasn’t escaped this one either. And it all revolves around the Black princess’ love interest Prince Naveen of Maldonia, a white man.
“It seems to cause some controversy that the princess falls in love with a white prince in the movie”, says Brown, Bang Media. Apparently people are questioning the racist nature of Disney and feel they should have let a Black man be Prince too.
Who said Disney’s first Black princess must have a matching Black prince? I thought people would applaud interracial love since its breaking down segregation. In my opinion, the demand for Disney’s leading couple to be Black is what’s racist.
Do you think there is any real substance to this controversy?
Tags: interracial dating, interracial dating sites, black women black men
Popularity: 22% [?]
Comment by areyouready on 30 March 2009:
From what I have read, the prince is not a white man, but either a mixed individual (Creole?) or Brazilian & Indian (from India) mixed.
I agree the fact that some people are jumping on the race of the prince in and of itself is racist. So black women can only have black princes? I do not think it is that deep with what Disney is doing. I think they are in the business to sell movies, not make social statements. It is we the people that say if it makes a statement and from the polls I have seen 70% or more of America does not care what race the prince is.
Comment by brownpapi on 30 March 2009:
brazilian isnt a racial background..its a nationality
Comment by CutieHoney on 30 March 2009:
The prince is not white. Hollywood get away with pairing blacks with any other race but black, so it will not be labeled a “Black Movie”.
Comment by BrownGirlLDN on 30 March 2009:
I remember reading this story a little while ago in the free paper on the tube and thinking WOW it’s about time that a black woman wasn’t immediately paired with a black man as a matter of course.
I don’t know why the assumption has to be that the black princess *should* have a black prince.
Instead, isn’t it better that our kids know there is more to choose from in the world of romance than just that which is portrayed time and time again on TV already, i.e. black women with black men…
Comment by Cocoacutie94 on 30 March 2009:
I agree with you Brown girl. I think it’s a great idea! Our sexiness hasn’t been accepted as much in society, that’s why you rarely see it. Now let’s have a movie with real live people where the Black woman does not have to be paired with a Black man. Denzel Washington, Will Smith, Wesley Snipes and Don Cheadle have always co-starred opposite women of other races without it being an issue, so why can’t Gabrielle Union or Kerry Washington do it without it being an issue. Peace and Love People!
Comment by Chosen519 on 30 March 2009:
I wonder what the box office numbers will be. Will this movie bring in the dollars? Are we really there yet??
Comment by homesteader on 30 March 2009:
A carton , made into a Prime time Movie , Actors , actresses and real Life Drama . Halley Berry and Pierce Brosnan - Bond James Bond / Die Another Day .
Comment by Shellyb on 30 March 2009:
This is not the first…Disney’s Pocahontas … Native American woman - European white man. Didn’t we already have this controversy?
Comment by salsera77 on 30 March 2009:
I say flood America with these bw/wm images so much so that it becomes commonplace and shuts up the naysayers!!! HA!
Comment by o on 31 March 2009:
But wasn’t Pocohantas’ lover, John Smith, white, in real life?
I am in support of the film as is and I plan to support it.
Comment by o on 31 March 2009:
But wasn’t Pocohantas’ lover, John Smith, white, in real life?
I am in support of the film as is and I plan to see it 10 times and buy 10 copies.
Comment by Mahogany5 on 31 March 2009:
Why is Inter Racial dating in a cartoon such a big deal.
Love is Love off or on the screen
Who cares what color people are??
Comment by only_otter on 31 March 2009:
As for disney caring about interracial things, it’s only about the money,now saes of their merch will go up because for the first time, little black girls will have a princess to call their own and little white girls will still the dolls in their collection.
I think it’s a great marketing move.
******* mental note, invest in disney. **********
Comment by AptlyNamed on 31 March 2009:
I think if art imitates life - and animation is clearly an art form, then it makes sense that this particular reality be reflected. Even if its for children to see.
It may plant a seed of open-mindedness and tolerance in a young mind. After all, it is Disney and they like their stories to have a moral.
At the very least, it shows that couples don’t HAVE to “match’ for them to be a loving couple. It also fairly represents a large population of mixed race people - FINALLY, a positive media representation!
Since this particular platform requests responses from its readers, I do not agree with Khamrii with regards to the topic being posted. It may be a cartoon, which generally is marketed to children. However, it is the PARENTS and adults who decide what the children would watch - since it’s likely, they are paying for it and/or will bring it to a child to watch.
NOTE: I also find it ironic that someone who would refer to another person as an ‘IDIOT’ can’t spell ‘ridiculous’.
This is a forum, not a means to insult someone for opening up a topic for discussion. There are many perspectives one can hold - take it or leave it and move on with your day.
For someone who doesn’t watch TV - I appreciate the post.
Comment by PoeticwineJ on 31 March 2009:
Get over it… I think its a great step. This is nothing new. Keep up the good work Disney!
Comment by Glock on 31 March 2009:
Good point Cocoacutie, however your sexiness is noticed in society more than you think.
Comment by LatinoLova on 31 March 2009:
I am a Latino(Colombian)/white man who has noticed that after dating black women since sixth grade,having a bi-racial daughter with my first serious girlfriend and a bi-racial son by my ex-wife,that over the years I have started to notice more “reverse” racism from some black families and from many black males that only want black females to date/marry in the black community/ethnicity.
I did some contoversy papers drawing on issues concering dating outside the black community from Ebony Magazine from January or Febuary 2004 dealing with black men dating any race they wanted and an article that was a follow-up for the black women that were scrutinized by the black community,but mostly by black men, in I think March or April 2004.
From my personal experience& the articles published I just feel like their is a new kind of racism/conflict arising. I’ve always had to deal with alot of insecure black males saying/shouting she must be with him for his money,he must eat pussy good,or he’s just trickin’off,cuzz it could’nt be because they love each other especially his wife& their mixed kids, or he’s just sprung on dat black pussy kinda comments.
These kinda comments about the movie along with the comments said and shouted in public that really make me regret having been willing to give my life in the wars and special operations while in the Marines as a ForceRecon Marine and as an Embassy bodyguard.
Comment by Dejavue on 1 April 2009:
I’m simply excited at the fact that I can take the little black girls in my life to see such a film. It’s rare that in the movie industry that we even see the black female depicted as a princess…Coming To America is the only film that I can really remember that’s had one. So what if her prince happens to white???? The controversy sends the wrong message to little black girls everywhere! Are we not worthy of finding love with someone of another race or should it only be left to the black man to date out of his race. I agree with the LatinoLova…he hit the nail on the head! Good for Disney for shacking things up and getting people to open there minds to this issue. It will be interesting to see how the movies does at the box office and my hope is that all parents will take their young children to see the movie and embrace the change. I personally find it empowering!
Comment by NOPLAYER on 1 April 2009:
My goodness, it’s just a cartoon. It’s target viewers are children. Why must everything be so blk and wht. Why can’t it just be a movie for kids to enjoy and base their own opinions about it.
No wonder Jesus said ” unless yea becaome as a child, yea can not see the kingdom of heaven” !
As adults we’re so close minded and our minds are like lifeless soil that cant produce nothing but mud when you add seeds and water to it.
Children are different, their minds are so open and curious to learn about different things.
It’s no accident that we call pre-school kindergarden, it’s a German word that means children’s / garden.
I think alot of us could stand to go back to kindergarden and hopefully unlearn some of this foolishness we’ve learned as adults!
Once again, it’s only a childrens movie !
Comment by homesteader on 1 April 2009:
Yes and History , remains just the Past / It’s over Folks . The Future is full of Happiness for those that Truly Seek it .
Comment by Atlast on 1 April 2009:
Has anyone thought about the fact that for the first time there are black little girls in the white house. Sounds like an interesting marketing ploy by the part of Disney. Hmm, just wondering.
Comment by homesteader on 1 April 2009:
History in the maken’
Comment by PrettyGurl on 1 April 2009:
I’m glad we finally got a princess! However I dont see the big deal, so what the male is not black.. Im glad that children can keep the thought that color has no bounds..
Comment by SunshineGurl85 on 2 April 2009:
I was very excited to hear that Disney will have a black princess for the time ever. But who wrote the rules that her prince had to be black? Her prince could be from Mars and green for all I care! Just like today in society, your true love isn’t based on skin color but what is in their heart and mind.
Comment by MelisUK on 2 April 2009:
This article makes me laugh.
Comment by Nikki29 on 2 April 2009:
It’s so sad that the race issue will never end.I really wish people would grow up and let people live their lives in peace. I say its about time Disney came out with a African American princess. Both of my nieces are mixed from my mixed baby sister and I think its great that they can see #1 a Black princess and #2 that they don’t have to listen to anyone except their hearts when it comes to love. I call my oldest niece Sista Queen anyway. I can’t wait to take them both to see it.
Comment by Atlast111 on 2 April 2009:
The History we don’t know. England had a Black queen in the 1800’s Her name was Charlotte Sophia. She was married to King George III. They loved each other deeply, had 17 children. There were no royal scandals during their reign. Probably the reason we don’t know about her is that she was an abolitionist and was trying to get George to get rid of Slavery throughout the British Empire. By the way, they currently did DNA testing on King George’s hair, (you might know him as the crazy king who lost the American colonies) and they found traces of arsenic. The truth is that we don’t need Disney to define our royalty. We, Black women are descendants of African chiefs, kings and queens. Indeed, we are the descendants of the culture that founded the first University (the University of Timbuktu) and on and on. It’s great that our children will see cartoons that allow them to seed themselves in the mainstream culture and perhaps even claim their royalty, but the truth is that we already have it.
Comment by PrettyGurl on 2 April 2009:
Hello AtLast, I was so intrigued to what you said that I did a little research.. It seems that noone wants to acknowledge that Queen Charlotte was black, which is kind of sad.. You can even tell in photos whether by white or black photographers she had African ancestry (which doesnt surprise me alot of people do). I’m getting off the subject a little but I thought I would let you know, I was one “who didnt know”.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charlotte_of_Mecklenburg-Strelitz
Comment by fkoi on 2 April 2009:
If we look to Disney to be the arbiter or what is correct along sociological lines we are in big trouble. And wouldn’t be great if a children’s film was the only place left to find racial controversy?
On one hand it is great that Disney has promoted a Black cartoon character to royalty. Instilling in little girls the concept that being a princess is a good thing is completely another thing. There are so many other role models that are a thousand times more worthy for a child to aspire to become. Whether she falls in love with a white/brown/yellow/black/blue-skinned prince is so irrelevant that it hardly seems to deserve mention, except perhaps on an interracial dating site.
The fact that it ignites controversy, even on an interracial dating site, says more than a thousand movies could. I would guess that we have all experienced repercussions due to our dating preferences but there are certainly many better reasons to opt for seeing or rejecting a movie than with whom the main character prefers to go to a movie.
I will say that in many of the images I’ve seen of Tiana, she looks like Cinderella with a dye job after many sessions at the tanning salon. Disney doesn’t have a strong record in political correctness. On the other hand they have built first a “Land” and then a “World” based on fantasy. Can we rationally expect more from them?
Comment by homesteader on 3 April 2009:
Fantasy ; The world in ones’ own mind is a Fantasy Trip , Day bye Day . Cartoon Artists are some of the hardest working Artists as I have heard . Drawing the same images over and over with a slight movement in each frame . We await comments after the film has been Viewed by Many . If you are to look closely , there are MANY MOVIES on DVD that have inter-racial Romance stories . One of my Favorites is ” Bringing Down the House ” with Eugene Levy , ” Today You Die ” with Steven Seagal and Many others which show People just being people . After We see the Film , We shall tell more of how Enjoyable it was to Watch . Have any who are commenting , Actually seen this Cartoon yet are are We just all Blowing Smoke to the Wind . We are just another Happy Relationship / Daily that started at AfroRomance - Proof of the Pudding so to speak .
Comment by BLKDIAMOND on 3 April 2009:
All I can say is that I am making sure my daughter sees this movie, we watched it on th epreviews of a video we recently bought which was bolt.The movie seems cute, not sure that me or my child will be concerned about who she falls in love with it is just a movie to show that blk girls can be princesses too, not that it was ever a problem. Im a fan of Disney.
Comment by BrownB09 on 3 April 2009:
It’s sad that people are making an issue over such a thing! There are so many other things going on in the black community that I am concerned about,such a thing is so ridiculous! First of all, Its a cartoon. What many people should realize is, these kind of cartoons can help our children learn about the diversity within our country, and help them grasp the dynamic concept that are many people unlike ourselves
Comment by snapdrag44 on 3 April 2009:
Our country just elected a multi-racial president, how soon we forget. It is about time a movie like this has surfaced. When the movie, Something New came out it was well received. Let our children know that love comes in all colors.
Comment by Fee Fee on 4 April 2009:
I agreed with your BrownGirl & Pretty Girl.
This cartoon is for the children, it will show them that love is like a rainbow, with all it’s beauty and mystery it comes in many colors
Comment by Layla32 on 4 April 2009:
Okay, because I see this as propaganda more than anything, where are the controversies posted? People do not fall for it, don’t let someone write a commentary “claiming” something that you have not seen proof of anywhere. I want to see it, I want to read the thousands of petitions, I want to see where Disney is being picketed because of this movie.
Now, my personal opinion of Disney is that he is a well pedophile and racist, and if you do any research on him, you will see. I congratulate a guy named Lenon Honor who is breaking ground. If you want to see the real issues, check out his work, google him or catch him on youtube.
I could care less about this film, and I would never take any of my children or anyone else’s children to be conditioned by this nonsense on television or in the movies. Why are we so caught up in needing validation racially or otherwise? It just keeps up fighting against each other and it is quite stupid.
There is nothing wrong with showing love regardless if it is black men loving black women or non-black men loving black women, but let’s not use it as a springboard to attack, degrade, black men or women because then you are falling for the trap.
I would say more, but I’m pretty much done for now.
Comment by BrownB09 on 4 April 2009:
Layla, you make a very interesting point!
Comment by homesteader on 5 April 2009:
Lighten up , childrens entertainment and We try to Judge [ this was not meant for a bunch of old folks that are set in their ways } This is for Our Future Leaders to Laugh and Enjoy - it is called Entertainment / We as a Whole haven’t even seen this as of the Present Time . My theory would be to ask the children what they Enjoyed about this Cartoon , After they walk out of the Theatre doors . Remember to give them enough money for popcorn and candy along with a Drink while they watch the Cartoon .
Comment by homesteader on 5 April 2009:
Yes as a child , I was Responsible enough to be allowed to go to the movies / Bye Myself . 25 cents for admission , 10 cents for popcorn and a nickel for a Mars bar - 2 Films and intermission with cartoons and a world war II SERIAL . Before the second movie and the ten block walk home afterwards . Mutual Respect for All others carried Me / Safely though younger years of Life .
Comment by charmyluv on 5 April 2009:
this article is a joke
Comment by TBOO45 on 6 April 2009:
ITS THE ADULTS MAKIN A BIG DEAL OUT OF IT ANY WAY , WHEN YOU ARE LITTLE YOU DONT SEE COLOR ANYWAYS, YOU JUST SEE ANOTHER HUMAN BEING, AND THERE IS REALLY NO SUCH THING AS RACE, ITS THE HUMAN RACE…..
Comment by Beauford on 6 April 2009:
I am a “White Prince” to my “Black Princess”. So now, I can romantically take her to this movie! We already know how folks look at us in public, and about the whispering, and such. We both give our relationship to God! As a matter of fact as Christian believers we understand the Bible as saying there is only one race, the human race! We are all just different models and shades of color of the same (human) race. The image of God. What if we judged people by what color and model of car, or house, oooops, I guess we do. Never mind, I guess humans will always find something to “hate”, huh?
Comment by BrownB09 on 6 April 2009:
Beauford, I agree with you 100 percent!
Comment by CUTIEPIE43 on 7 April 2009:
I’VE YET TO SEE AN ADVERTISMENT FOR THIS FILM, BUT WHEN I DO I’LL BE PAYING CLOSE ATTENTION TO MY BI-RACIAL TWINS(1B,1G)REACTION TO IT.
MY PERSONAL OPINION, WHO CARES! KIDS DON’T SEE COLOR. NOW ON THE FLIP SIDE IT’S GREAT TO SEE A GIRL/WOMAN OF COLOR BEING POTRAYED AS WE(THE PUBLIC) DON’T GET ALOT OF THAT. ON A SIDE NOTE, I DON’T GIVE A DAMN WHAT DISNEY OR THE PUBLIC IS DOING OR SAYING IT MEANS NADA TO ME OR MINE.
MY MOTTO IS I DEAL WITH THAT CRAP OUT IN THE STREET BUT ONCE I ENTER MY DOMAIN THAT CRAP IS NULL AND VOID. HELL ALL CATS ARE GREY IN THE DARK. YOU FEEL ME ON THAT!
Comment by patwill on 8 April 2009:
no there is no substance in the controversy people need to realize that times are changing and animation almost always reflects this just look at the racist warner brother cartoons from way back when or the world war 2 infused toons in the 40s
Comment by ditzydame on 8 April 2009:
I disagree that little kids don’t see color http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ybDa0gSuAcg
The saddest thing is the expression on little girl’s face on the end as she makes her conflicted choice. No child should have to feel that way.
Comment by sgh79 on 8 April 2009:
http://disney.go.com/disneypictures/princessandthefrog/
Comment by dolly48 on 8 April 2009:
i dont care if its a cartoon or not…i think an interracial romance is not necessary,or proper.
Let’s just be clear.. as a BLACK doll collector, I think we need postive images for our children. Hello??? have we forgotten the “black doll” test given decades ago, and then again more recenly with the same results?
Black children need to see positive images of their community.
End of story.
Comment by www.afroromance.com/mstiff4bsm23 on 8 April 2009:
I agree with most everyone else,this is ridiculous why do people always have to make dumb controversy over children’s programming I mean get over it, its for the kids to watch not us.Not only that but if we say that this princess needs a black prince because she is black, its not only ignorant on our part as a parent and an adult but its teaching our children that they should only date inside their own race,which is not right at all because we should be able to be with who makes us happy whether its white, black, polka dot,striped green,purple or red. Whoever is making this nonsense over kids cartoons sounds to me like they need to get a hobby or a wake up call. uhhh come on people get over the b.s. already its 2009 we should have got over this before it started GROW UP!
Comment by AlicenD8Land on 9 April 2009:
Until resently I would have never considered dating outside of my race. Sure, I looked but I didn’t touch. A friend of mine asked me “Why?” My only answer- I was taught not to. Which is one of the dumbest answers I’ve ever given in my life because I was also taught to think for myself. So I invite Dolly48 to think about this- Everyone is entitled to their opinion. I’ve studied the “black doll” test you’re refering to. The best book that I can think of to explain the horror of that mentality is Toni Morrison’s The Bluest Eye. Yes, childern of color should have role models on the the big screen. But most “Black” people born in this country ARE interracial. That’s why we are labeled as Black. No other label fits. The color black is the combination of all colors. That’s why Black Americians’ skin color, facial features and hair texture has such a wide range. What’s the old saying “One drop makes you black”? I could understand the logic of your arguement if it was consistent with your profile. Please explain to me why it’s ok NOT to practice what we preach to our childern? Thanks!
Comment by PrettyGurl on 9 April 2009:
also, why are you on an interracial site dolly if you think interracial relationships are wrong? wow, and we wonder why so many blk kids are growing up with “im the victim” mentality.. I think its some of our own people who teach them that. *shakes head*
Comment by Cocoacutie94 on 9 April 2009:
That’s what I wanted to know. Why are you on here if you think interracial dating is wrong? People should date according to compatibility in addition to attraction. Evolved people have the advantage of realizing that many times, race has nothing to do with compatibility.
Comment by CUTIEPIE43 on 10 April 2009:
QUESTION: HAS ANYONE WATCHED THE MOVIE “SPEED RACER”? I HAVE AND I DON’T HEAR ANYONE MAKING A BIG DEAL OUT OF SPEED RACERS BROTHER HAVING A BLACK WOMAN AS GIRLFRIEND/COUNTERPART ALTHOUGH IT’S NOT SPECIFIED WHAT THE TWO ARE BUT IT’S CLEAR THAT THEY ARE A COUPLE. SO WHAT’S THE BIG DEAL? YOU LIKE/LOVE WHO YOU LIKE AND KIDS WILL TO. PRETTY SIMPLE TO ME.
Comment by homesteader on 10 April 2009:
No We haven’t watched it , We shall look for it in the DVD section , Thank you .
Comment by dolly48 on 10 April 2009:
Thank you for your responses.
First, I do not believe interracial dating is “wrong”. Based on the context of our subject, the Disney film, I believe it is wrong and inapproiate to portray this “romance”.
“Prettygurl??”, you are right that some Black children grow up with a victim mentality; it is because films such as Disney’s try to invoke the theory that everyone is white or wish they were. Or, rather, that we need a white partner to “save” or rescue us. Thanks for proving my point. (Knodding my head in agreement)
AlicenD8Land, I agree that all are entitled to their opinions, yet when I posted mine, you seemed disappointed. Talk about “practicing what you preach!” Things that make me go “Hmmmmmm”.
I can’t agree with your definiton of “Black”. As far as the “one drop” law goes, that would make EVERYONE on EARTH black (according to the opinion you say I am entitled to)
The fact that (according to your statement) you were raised not to date interracially says a lot. WE (my loving sisters and I) were raised to love and respect all, but to still LOVE our BLACKNESS and EMBRACE it.
I have dated outside my cultural background. I enjoyed myself. Had fun. But I was black before I went on the date, during the date, and after the date. It seems to me that as soon as SOME people start dating opposite their cultural background (what some may call “race”)They become that “race”. They lose their own idenity. BELIEVE me, that is not me!
Personally, I am tired of seeing “sistas” wearing weaves or “blond” hair? Hello? Then they have the nerve to say they are “proud ‘Black’ women”??????
(hello, Tyra, Mary J, Beyonce, are you listening??)
What the helm?
BTW, God Bless Erik LaSalle. some of you may remember when he was on “ER” that he refused to have a relationship with a white female on the show. He did so because that medium had him in a relationship with a black female, and they were always in conflict. When the white woman came along, the writers had her be his “great white hope”. The relationship was loving and kind.
Erik said: “no way!” and stopped it. What courage!
Do we want to tell black children the only way they can get love is through the arms of those outside our cultural backgrounds?
Comment by BrownGirlLDN on 10 April 2009:
Dolly48, thanks for your views but I take umbrage with some of the points you raise.
I agree with your views on keeping your identity regardless of who you are in love with. This is admirable and should be encouraged and practised by more people.
What I do take particular offence to is your stance that by wearing weave or dying your hair you are somehow “less black”. I honestly think there are more than enough shades of black for facilitate all the different kinds of black people. Some like dreads, some like braids, others like mohawks and damn, some even shave their heads. If I choose to dye my hair peroxide blonde, that doesn’t make me any less black than the day before I dyed my hair.
Also, your point that Disney are somehow to blame for little black kids growing up with issues just doesn’t ring true to me. Parents should be responsible for teaching their children life lessons. Teaching their kids to be happy with what they have and to work hard for the things that they would like.
I guess my final bit is that you state that Disney are making a statement by having a non black male as the princess’s knight. Maybe you’ve misinterpreted their message? Perhaps it really isn’t important what colour her prince is? Maybe the message is simply, the little black princess gets to live happily ever after…
The End?
Comment by lovely2see on 11 April 2009:
It’s a love story, pure and simple.
Comment by dolly48 on 11 April 2009:
BrownGirlLDN
The End? Let’s hope it is. First, I thank you for your views.
Second, I stand by my comments on “Black?” Blondes and those that glue or stitch fake “hair” to their heads to appear “Less Black”. I agree that Black people are all different shades, but we ALL can look gorgeous being that way, instead of another shade of “blonde”. (I must admit that maybe someday I will wear a blonde wig on Halloween, or some scary, silly event. I havent done so yet, Thank God.)
I agree that we can wear LOCS (like me) or braids, or a mohawk, etc. I just prefer my OWN NATURAL hair that grew from the scalp, not something cut from another woman in another country, from animals, or maybe even from the end of a horse’s Ass.
God knows where that fake crap came from; I’d rather my hair was a gift that GOD gave me personally. Of course, others are free to buy their hair from the supermarket, Dollar store, thrift store, or wherever.
I dont feel that Disney is to blame for children growning up with “issues”, but they certainly can add to it by not promoting positive images. Did you know Disney had a “coal black and the sebben drawfs” cartoon years ago? one of their songs had the line: “Black people got no reason to live”. The same man who wrote that music is the same man who wrote music for “The Princess and the Frog”.
I agree with you that Parents are responsible for teaching their children positive images, or life lessons.That is what my mother did! Shout out to my mom: “Thank you for teaching me BLACK is beautiful!!!” I taught my daughter that and am teaching my grandchildren the same thing!
Happily Ever after? Indeed we are!
Finally, I have not “misinterpreted” Disney’s message. They came through loud and clear.
The End.
Comment by homesteader on 11 April 2009:
Is not ” Disney ” an entertainment corporation with a board of directors ? Do not they have a staff of thousands of different people employed by them ? Who eat on a regular basis because of their paychecks . In the end this will be a Cartoon movie made for the entertainment of children . How can anyone ” misinterpret ” what is not even due to be released until December as of the present unseen . I Personally hope the children Enjoy and Laugh throughout the whole showing of ” The princess and the frog . “
Comment by Kanzan on 11 April 2009:
The only people getting upset about this CARTOON are Black Men and White Women. Think about it…..
Comment by dolly48 on 11 April 2009:
Homesteader:
I just hope Disney does not have The Last Laugh.
Comment by homesteader on 12 April 2009:
I sure like to repeat when confusion seems evident in others : ” Disney ” is employment for many people , If Disney does not make a profit . Employees will be layed-off , soon enough hungry and with homes repossessed / families living on the street - because racial hatred does not allow children to go watch a Cartoon and spend money . Those that will stop their children from seeing this Movie are Hypocrites / with a chance of putting hard working people out of work by doing such and so . How ignorant can we be as hard as it is to find a job / to be the ones who desire to endanger another persons employment . I am not Senile , I see actions speak louder than words . But I do know Hunger from being out of work .
Comment by 420soulja on 12 April 2009:
wow its a movie for little kids like when we got a black man in offcies the true haters came right out just wait and see this is not the end of rasicem but this is a step it the right diriction when the world changes the media is the first thing to jump on the wagon this is just another starting point for the world
Comment by homesteader on 12 April 2009:
dolly48 , I am glad you do not work for ” Disney ” as it might be your job that is threaten by Meager Attendance at the Theatre . Happy Easter to all .
Comment by AlicenD8Land on 12 April 2009:
Dolly48
Thank you for your response. In your orginial message your meaning was unclear. I think you meant that most interracial relationships portrayed in Hollywood only show a “perfect” relationship between the two people involved. Most of the conflict is with people outside their relationship, ie; family, friends, strangers reaction to them. In this I agree. I wanted to understand what you meant. Everyone is entittled to their opinion. Unfounded opinions or opinions in direct conflict with our actions are dangerous. I wanted to make sure my message was also clear. I did not write my opinion. According to science we are all black.
Also, the definition of black I gave is from art. In mixing pigments the abstance of color is white. The combination of all colors is black. This is stated in any art text.
What I meant when I said “raised” was taught. Childern learn by observation. Only one person in my family dated outside of their race and I did not not interact with him or his wife often. This way of thinking was taught by the silent “rule”. No one told me no but they didn’t say ok either.
If someone is secure and satistfied with themselves they won’t lose their identity. What they “pick- up” will only enhance their gifts. Maybe that person already liked rock or the blond hair but was afraid to persue those things because they weren’t sure they would be accepted. I don’t know.
Hope I am clear. Thanks and have a nice day!
Comment by fearlesscrus on 12 April 2009:
AlicenD8Land, in science class I was taught that white is made up of all colors, and black is the complete absence of all color. Layla32, you need to realize that that Disney the corporation and Disney the man are not exactly the same. One is alive and well; the other is dead. Also, I disagree with everyone saying that this cartoon is only for children. Disney cartoons are skillfullly and wonderfully made to appeal to, and teach moral lessons to, all ages. I enjoy them immensely. And finally, how is it that a man who is 50% white, 45% Arabic, and only 5% black is BLACK when he’s in the White House; but a man who is predominately Creole and Native American is WHITE when he’s in a cartoon???
Comment by BrownGirlLDN on 12 April 2009:
Fearlesscrus,
Are you referring to Barack Obama when you talk about the man in the white house? The man that has a black father? The man whose father is from Kenya? The man whose father is a black man that would make him (by your description) 50% black?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barack_Obama,_Sr.
Where are you getting Arabic from?
I’m going by the above of course and by me not being American, maybe I’ve missed something but dude, seriously, what are you talking about? Are you privvy to some special information about his ethnic background that the rest of us aren’t?
If so, please enlighten us.
??
Comment by fearlesscrus on 12 April 2009:
BrownGirl,
I’ve enjoyed your posts. To answer your challenge to me:
It’s my understanding that the Kenyan father’s ancestry was mostly Arabic (I’ll forward documentation if I can find it again). Now this gets a little tricky, because black” is considered a race more than “Arabic” is, but even if you assume Obama is 50% black, it does not obviate my point that people are called either “black” or “white” on someone’s whim, without regard to their exact mix. How many times has Obama been called the first black president, even though at least 4 previous presidents were descended from blacks?
Comment by Cocoa Cutie on 12 April 2009:
Obama’s father doesn’t have one ounce of Arabic blood in him. He has an Arabic name, because the people in Kenya and nearby regions took on those names just like many African-Americans took on names such as Muhammad Ali, Jamal and Abdul. Black is the combination of all colors and White is the absence of color. Even if you were taught that in science, most people would have had the common sense to figure out that their teacher was completely incompetent.
Comment by Amanda on 12 April 2009:
actually LatinoLova it’s nothing new. It’s just most don’t realize that the double standard exists. But many black women know its there
Comment by Ichibod on 12 April 2009:
Good point, CutieHoney. The same thing happened when Spawn came to theaters. Comic book fans were outraged when Todd Mcfarlane changed one of the character’s race to get more funding. Part of the fuss with this Disney issue is that romance has never been a staple or at least considered a major point of interest amongst blacks in film. We desire to see it more than we have in the past or in recent years. At times, all we see represented is some pseudo-ghetto love, love and crime, love and basketball. Our love songs were on point once, then they fell off an got extremely vulgar with no hint of romance.
Some blacks see this and wonder why a large company like Disney, MGM, Fox or Viacom can’t present an example of a black man and a black woman sharing the same kinda of love that, in reality, anyone couple can share. The problem with this is Disney is a part of the media. Looking to the media, whether it provides positive images when you want them or negative images when you don’t, is dangerous. I can understand and somewhat agree with the controversy, but I see it more the way CutieHoney does, because I’ve seen that marketing tactic before.
Comment by fearlesscrus on 12 April 2009:
Cocoa Cutie:
According to Wikipedia, “black is the lack of all colors of light” and “white is a balanced combination of all the colors of the visible light spectrum…” And why should I believe you know any more about Obama’s father’s bloodlines than you know about colors?
Comment by dolly48 on 12 April 2009:
Dear AlicenD8land:
Thanks for the clarification; it was not necessary as I understood what you meant.
However I do appreciate your taking the time to write.
Thank you everyone for your views.
Comment by Cocoa Cutie on 12 April 2009:
fearlesscrus,
It is true that black is the absence of color of light. However, color in light and color in matter are actually two different concepts relying on different theories and forms of measurement. Additionally, for those who are interested, Wikipedia can be a great tool, but it is not a reliable source. It is not accepted as a valid reference tool at most universities, colleges, high schools and even some middle schools.
Comment by homesteader on 12 April 2009:
According to the context of Black used at AfroRomance Webster states refering to people - Having dark skin , hair and eyes ; pertaining to a race characterizedby dark pigmentation as opposed to white .
Comment by fearlesscrus on 13 April 2009:
Cocoa Cutie,
Thanks for discrediting the ONLY authority cited here to assert Obama’s black ancestry.
Comment by NY_WM on 13 April 2009:
Comment by PrettyGurl on 2 April 2009:
“It seems that noone wants to acknowledge that Queen Charlotte was black, which is kind of sad.. You can even tell in photos whether by white or black photographers she had African ancestry (which doesnt surprise me alot of people do).”
Hi PrettyGurl,
There seems to be some controversy over Queen Charlotte. There are portrait paintings of her, but not actual (film) photographs. She died in 1818 and that technology was not available yet. Looking at her portraits myself, it seems inconclusive to me, although I think it is possible.
Comment by ditzydame on 13 April 2009:
FYI
Coal Black was not from Disney Studios it was a Bob Clampett cartoon (Beanie and Cecil.) Prince Naveen in the “Princess and the Frog” is not white, nor Creole and native American. He’s an indeterminate race from from a made up country outside the united states played voice wise by an actor who’s from Brazil.
Comment by dolly48 on 13 April 2009:
Ditzydame (you got that right).
Thanks for the clarification. “Coal Black” was a Warner Bros. “Cartoon”. Strange how you commented on that and not the facts of this racist “cartoon”. I guess that did not offend you as much as getting a name wrong. My Bad.
From my understanding about “The Princess and the Frog”, the original Prince was white until there was MUCHO feedback from the public. Now, of course, he is not Black but something else. God forbid a black person falls in love with another black person. Geez, what was I thinking?
Comment by NOPLAYER on 15 April 2009:
Comment for Atlast and PrettyGurl
I did a little reserch and found out that Queen Charlotte Sophia was not only the wife of Gorge III and the grandmother of Queen Victiria but she was a German princess.
The painting I’m looking at clearly shows that she was a woman of African ancestry.
I’ll add more as i find it.
Comment by homesteader on 15 April 2009:
Y ‘all got me stumped as I didn’t Realize that Cartoon Characters had any Nationality
Comment by Bopfoows on 16 April 2009:
terrific site this http://www.afroromance.com excellent to see you have what I am actually looking for here and this this post is exactly what I am interested in. I shall be pleased to become a regular visitor
Comment by Revolution00 on 16 April 2009:
Yay a black princess!! Screw the prince..
Comment by homesteader on 17 April 2009:
Enjoy the day soon night fall
Comment by Jabali on 2 May 2009:
I am naive, this I know. But tell me again WHAT is the big deal about a black woman loving a white guy. Happens all the time in the real world and now the cartoons have joined reality!
Comment by milla01 on 28 May 2009:
This article itself is one big comic show.
So what if the prince is white and the princess is black?
Instead of this film being a controversy, it should be a symbol of tolerance for black/white relationships; especially white men/black women, since it’s usually always the other way around.
I think it’s about time that we see some change and in this case on the big screen.
If we want to kill racism we should start by teaching children our tolerance; that way they grow up to accept and tolerate people and their differences.
People are just upset that the prince isn’t with a white girl as he is “supposed to”
my gosh!!! It’s 2009, not the 1920’s.
Comment by Girlstar7 on 7 June 2009:
For the first black disney princess film, I as a
proud black woman and newbie to the total interrace
thing. I feel that they should present a black
man with the black princess. Then if it does well
then introduce a black woman with a black man or
black man with a white princess.But? for the first
film, black on black is more setting. I still will
date whiite males though…lol
Comment by Girlstar7 on 7 June 2009:
I meant to say that after the film does well, then
present the next one with a black woman and white
male.
Comment by Miri2008 on 17 June 2009:
I remember when the Lion King came out, and I was wondering why Disney decided to portray the story set in Africa with animals rather than African people.
I was glad to see Pocahontas, because she was at least brown. Now, I’m thrilled to see that an actual black princess is coming up!
I tried to get a sneak a peak to see the prince, but the disney page barely flashes him - so can’t tell if he looks white or Spanish or Arabic or what.
It will be nice to see a continuation of movies portaying freedom for a black female to have an ‘other’ ethnic partner. Recent examples that come to mind:
Cinderella (1997 - TV): Brandy as Cinderella, Paolo Montalban (Phillipino) as the prince
Guess Who (2005): Zoe Saldana, love interest Ashton Kutcher
Haven (2006): Zoe Saldana, love interest Orlando Bloom
Star Trek (2009): Zoe Saldana (Lt. Uhura), love interest Zachary Quinto (Mr. Spock)
Something New (2006): Sanai Latham, love interest Simon Baker
Things We Lost in the Fire (2007): Halle Berry, husband David Duchovny
The Rich Man’s Wife (1996): Halle Berry, husband Christopher McDonald
Comment by bikerdude on 23 July 2009:
O.K. here is my take on this…. who cares if your black or white,i think these clows should just beat it. we are all in this togater , i am down with a black princess
Comment by bikerdude on 23 July 2009:
here is my take… who care if your black or white about time disney had a blk princess, all blk women are a princess in my book, if you dont like it then just beat it
Comment by jsjm on 27 July 2009:
I agree with bikerdude..
All black girls are princesses and we grow up to become black queens
who cares if her knight and shining armor is white…coddles to the princess in this disney movie lol
Comment by Enigma64 on 25 August 2009:
I think that pretty much everything that can be said on this has been said, and I can’t believe there is a controversy over this. It’s so trivial. I would like to respond to dolly48 however.
Why is it that sistas who want to go ‘natural’ are always puttin’ down sistas who don’t? Why do the ‘natural’ lovers hate on those who want to look different? Why do ‘natural’ lovers feel that only nappy hair or such styles as dreds identifies one as black? Is it a hidden insecurity that says that only those who wear their hair natural qualify as black, or identify as black?
Personally, I have no need to wear extensions or add-ons. My hair is naturally curly, and I can choose to wear it that way, or blow it out straight and wear it like that.
Despite being able to do either types of styles with my hair, still, I choose to occasionally wear either a wig, extensions, or weave. My purpose has nothing to do with trying to assimilate into the white race. It has more to do with fashion sense and the fact that I like to change it up, and look different, which includes changing my hair color or cutting my hair if I get bored with it.
I also tend to sport hats, headbands, a variety of jewelry and other accessories, per whatever outfit and look I’m trying to capture. I see it as a means of creative expression, and there’s nothing wrong with that.
I find it odd that most of the time, whenever I hear sistas talking down about those who regularly wear weave etc; and making claims that they are trying to identify themselves more with white people than black; they claim it is an insecurity in the weave wearer.
However, I see a pattern in the fact that these “naturalists” seem to be so angry at non-naturalists, in the fact that their complaint is always a claim of weave wearers being self-loathing for their blackness. It strikes me as a distinctive statement of insecurity of the “naturalists” because if they were truly so happy with their natural look and preference, they’d have no reason to dis those who don’t chose that same style and fashion.
So basically, I guess I’m asking you why some black women’s preference to wear weave is such a bug up your butt that it needed to be mentioned in this discussion. It just stood out to me as a non-related issue that it seemed you used to justify your position against what you seem to see as too much racial integration. I could be wrong, but that is what I saw. Peace and blessings.
Comment by smiletellsit on 27 September 2009:
This Disney movie is long overdue. The only portrayal of Africa/Afro/black characters/voices was Lion King about animals. Disney never had the courage until now to portray a black female/princess. BTW animation on this began before the Obamas entered the White House. Disney is a merchandising giant and they know that “black” dollars deliver huge profits.
Quick History: Originally, the character was named Maddie, a chambermaid, and the movie was entitled The Frog Princess. Not good. Takes Disney a while to get it right.
This animated interracial relationship is the latest practice by the marketing industry to represent everyone possible in a multimedia product to make the audience emotionally connect. Recent commercials show a homemaker that looks black, but actually Latina, but then again could be Asian and heck maybe just a dark-haired white woman. That’s their game. And in this case, they’re trying to give us a little of everyone to connect with.
Plus, all little girls fall in love with whoever the princess is, so no matter what race the little girl is, she’ll be falling in love, dressing up as, buying the products of and wanting to be Princess Tiana.