Disneyland Cast Members Celebrate Raya During Special Meet and Greet
Originally published at Disney Parks News
Now through Feb. 13 under the forest canopy in Redwood Creek Challenge Trail at Disney California Adventure park, guests can encounter the heroic Raya from “Raya and the Last Dragon”.
A few Disneyland Resort cast members belonging to the Business Employee Resource Group COMPASS (Community of Pacific Islanders, Asians, and Allies) experienced a special meet and greet with Raya prior to her public debut.
Maya Kantak whose family is from India and South Asia appreciates seeing a representation of diverse cultures at Disneyland Resort. Even when the culture isn’t her own.
“Even though Raya doesn’t directly represent my culture,” Maya said, “it’s a great learning experience for everyone to be exposed to other cultures. Representation is just as important in influencing people who aren’t familiar with or don’t identify with that culture.”
Meagan Manuet, who has Filipino heritage, said “seeing an Asian character as the main character was incredible. Growing up I loved Mulan. But since my heritage is from the Philippines, it means so much to have a [Southeast Asian] character for my daughter to look up to.”
Disneyland Resort Business Employee Resource Groups (known as BERGs) support and enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion goals. Cast members are encouraged to get involved in BERGs as members or allies.
