It seems no institution is immune to the influence of political division, and now, even children's cartoons have become a surprising battleground. A recent Rasmussen Reports survey revealed a significant portion of Americans are actively avoiding Disney movies due to perceived political messaging. This dissatisfaction transcends party lines, although Republicans express it more strongly.
While politically charged cartoons aren't entirely new (consider Disney's wartime "Der Fuehrer's Face" or the environmentally conscious "Captain Planet"), the current climate is different. Past examples often reflected broader societal consensus, whereas today's cartoons delve into highly divisive topics. This shift, fueled by the "social justice" focus of recent years, pressures companies like Disney to take stances on controversial issues, even in children's content.
This trend has impacted Disney's performance, with films like "Lightyear" and "Wish" underperforming at the box office. In response, some conservative groups are creating counter-programming with a right-leaning perspective, further fueling the politicization of children's entertainment. This raises the concerning prospect of a future where toys and entertainment are categorized not by gender or age, but by political affiliation.
However, children deserve better than to be pawns in adult political battles. Indoctrinating them into today's controversies ill-prepares them for the future. More importantly, it instrumentalizes children, making them a means to an adult end.
Instead of focusing on fleeting political debates, children's entertainment should prioritize character development and timeless values. We need stories that, like J.R.R. Tolkien suggested, "allow for growth." Stories that explore universal truths, showcase beauty, and inspire goodness.
These stories empower children to navigate their own lives, understand the interplay of good and evil, and develop the fortitude to make their own choices. If we want to cultivate future leaders, we must reclaim the space of children's entertainment and focus on nurturing their development, not indoctrinating them into our current political divides.
