Emporium Window on Main Street, U.S.A. Honors Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders
Originally published at Disney Parks News
In celebration of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, guests visiting the Disneyland Resort can find an all-new window display honoring Children’s Day. A holiday which is celebrated in many cultures, including Japan and South Korea. Through the collaboration of the Disneyland Resort Enhancement team and COMPASS, a business employee resource group dedicated to advocating, celebrating, and educating on behalf of the AANHPI community. This special window display was brought to life outside the Emporium on Main Street, U.S.A.!
“Children’s Day, as it is celebrated in Japan, is a day for parents to wish for prosperity for their children and look to a bright future,” said Hiroe Saito, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Food and Beverage production manager.
The new display features Victorian-era furniture and traditional games from a variety of different AANHPI cultures.
“Since we have the storybook windows year-round, I developed a story for this window too,” said Brianna Mitjans. She’s a Resort Enhancement cast member. “I centered it around a Japanese family celebrating Children’s Day. Showcased all of the games they collected during their travels. Which are from various AANHPI cultures.”
Varieties of games such as Sungka (Philippines), Traditional Indian Chess, Mahjong (China), Konane (Hawaiian Islands & Polynesia), Nei-pat-ko-no (Korea) and Kendama (Japan) can be found in the window.
“The ‘koinobori,’ the carp streamers in the back, are flown to symbolize willpower and success. In reference to the old Chinese story of the carps’ strength and determination to swim upstream.” Said Allie Kawamoto, COMPASS co-chair and Hotel Experience Integration manager.
This May, the Disneyland Resort is encouraging guests and cast members to rise together like the koinobori. To honor the many traditions and contributions of AANHPI communities. You can discover more opportunities to participate in AANHPI Heritage Month at the Disneyland Resort. This May through the Disney Parks Blog. Want to join the teams bringing the magic to life at Disneyland Resort? Click here to learn more about available roles and apply today!
