PETA is demanding that animal-themed carousels like those found at Magic Kingdom and Disneyland Park become a thing of the past, as the organization says that such attractions are harmful to animals because they teach children to disrespect animals and go so far as to celebrate that disrespect.
On Monday, PETA, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, sent a written request to the president and CEO of the largest manufacturer of rides in the United States, Wichita, Kansas-based Chance Rides, in an effort to stop the manufacturer from producing animal-themed carousels.
The letter, addressed to Aaron Landrum and written by PETA president Ingrid Newkirk, claims that such rides “normalize the use of animals as conveyances and amusements.”
“Children learn through play, and teaching them to have respect and compassion for all living, feeling beings can help create a more just and merciful world,” says Newkirk, who authored the book 50 Awesome Ways Kids Can Help Animals.
“PETA urges Chance Rides and all other carousel manufacturers to hit the brakes on old-fashioned animal-themed rides and embrace designs that engage children’s imagination and showcase human talent.”
The letter, dated February 6, specifically asks for the end of the “manufacture and sale of animal-themed carousels” and requests that in place of animals, other figures be exclusively produced, including those “in the shape of vehicles, such as cars, unicycles, tractors, airplanes, rockets, and bulldozers, that children are drawn to or even more whimsical designs, like shooting stars, rainbows, or brooms.”
In the letter, PETA concedes that such a request is “unexpected but important.” As the basis for PETA’s request, the letter states the following:
Animal-themed carousels unintentionally celebrate the exploitation of sentient beings. Animals used for rides and other forms of entertainment—including camels, horses, elephants, and dolphins—are confined and in servitude, never free to pursue their own lives and interests. They’re also sometimes beaten, tormented, and even slaughtered when their bodies wear out.
All animals are thinking, feeling, affectionate, playful, and social beings who form strong bonds with their offspring if permitted to keep them (a rarity). They crave freedom from oppression. Animal-themed carousel sets reinforce the notion that these sentient beings are simply here for our entertainment rather than individuals with the same capacity to experience fear, pain, joy, and love as any of us.
According to PETA, the decision by ride manufacturers–and presumably theme parks like Disney World and Disneyland that offer animal-themed carousels as amusement attractions to their guests–will ultimately send two messages, deemed “powerful” by the organization:
Animals are to be respected, not exploited, and companies can and should evolve to keep up with the times. In 2018, following talks with PETA, Nabisco replaced the more than 100-year-old design of caged animals on its Barnum’s Animals Crackers boxes with imagery of wild animals roaming free.
In 2019, after a push from PETA, Trader Joe’s redesigned its Bamba Peanut Snacks, toilet paper, and organic peanut butter packages to no longer include images of elephants performing tricks. And just last winter, after hearing from PETA, Dukal Corporation stopped selling bandages depicting animals in circuses.
The letter concludes with Newkirk asking the Chance Rides CEO to pledge to stop “promoting this abuse by no longer producing carousel figures in animal forms.” There’s no word yet about his response to PETA’s request.
Walt Disney World is known for being the epitome of magical experiences and joyful memories.
Amongst the magical day-to-day, it’s easy for tourists to forget that the sprawling resort actually sits right in the heart of what used to be swampland, and many of its residents, including the American Alligator, avoided evictions when Mickey Mouse came to town.
Florida’s sub-tropical climate, high humidity, and beautifully designed landscapes make it the perfect place for exciting amphibious reptiles to take up shelter.
As Central Florida, where Walt Disney World is located, acts as a gateway to one of the last wild frontiers of the state, the Florida Everglades, it isn’t uncommon to have run-ins with wildlife all over Disney World, including Magic Kingdom and its numerous resort locations.
Sadly, most memorable, a fateful incident in 2016 brought attention to the presence of alligators in the vicinity of one of these resorts.
Since that day, savvy guests have had the presence of dangerous reptiles seared into the back of their minds, and Disney has taken steps along with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission to create a more sustainable future for tourism to live in harmony with the abundant wildlife that calls Walt Disney World home.
In June 2016, tragedy struck when two-year-old Lane Graves was attacked and killed by an alligator near Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort.
This unfortunate incident sent shockwaves through the community and prompted Disney to embark on several initiatives to enhance safety protocols and prevent such incidents in the future.
After the incident, Walt Disney World took immediate action to prioritize the safety of its guests while maintaining the enchanting atmosphere that has made it beloved worldwide. The resort implemented the following safety measures:
Perimeter ropes: Disney erected permanent rope fixtures and barriers around the water bodies within the resort to restrict access to guests and wild animals, reducing the chances of accidental encounters.
Clear and visible signage was placed throughout the resort, reminding guests of the potential presence of wildlife in the area and providing safety guidelines to follow.
Disney established a dedicated team of wildlife specialists responsible for monitoring the wildlife population within the resort and ensuring the safety of both animals and guests. They work closely with local authorities and experts to remain updated on wildlife behavior and implement necessary precautions.
Disney World followers got to see this team in action recently when a black bear, another common Florida species that can be dangerous, was spotted in the Frontierland area of Magic Kingdom, prompting an entire shutdown of most of the park for around half a day.
Walt Disney World has a longstanding commitment to wildlife conservation and environmental stewardship. They actively engage in several initiatives to safeguard the natural habitat and promote biodiversity. Here are some examples:
The Walt Disney Company supports various conservation and research programs dedicated to protecting and preserving wildlife. These initiatives aim to understand animal behavior better, promote habitat restoration, and raise awareness about the importance of conservation.
Disney incorporates educational elements into its theme parks and resorts to raise awareness among guests about the importance of wildlife conservation and the need to respect natural habitats. Through informative displays and interactive experiences, visitors understand the interconnectedness between humans and wildlife.
Despite exhaustive efforts to educate guests regarding the potential dangers lurking in waterways around Walt Disney World, like Seven Seas Lagoon, where the Lane Grave incident occurred, some guests ignore the danger and enter bodies of water around the property anyhow.
Most recently, a guest to Magic Kingdom reportedly jumped from the rafts that carry visitors to Tom Sawyer Island, while another at EPCOT jumped from one of the bridges in the World Showcase.
A quick search online, specifically on YouTube, reveals several videos of Walt Disney World guests fishing dangerously close to the lakes and ponds that scatter around the property, while some even show daring visitors swimming.
It’s hard to imagine anyone willing to enter a body of water that could have a 920-lb alligator lurking below. However, whether it be stupidity or ignorance, it does still happen around Walt Disney World.
If you’ve been to Walt Disney World enough, chances are you’ve had your fair share of wildlife encounters. It isn’t uncommon for Grand Floridian Resort guests to run across a variety of slithering serpents or for guests aboard the Disney Skyliner, boat service, or even the Monorail to spot alligators from their high vantage point.
Although it certainly isn’t news that the American Alligator calls Florida home, it’s never a bad idea to continue educating the public, especially travelers unfamiliar with the state of Florida and its wildlife, when it comes to a possible encounter with an alligator at Walt Disney World.
It seems that some people are convinced that gators (affectionately nicknamed by locals) are more myth and reality for some guests. Still, one image shared to Reddit recently suggests that they are certainly out and about at Disney, reinforcing to guests that they should adhere to Disney’s rules about entering their waterways.
User u/daveoski posted a clear photo to the Walt Disney World subreddit, a beautifully captured one of a scaly lizard hunting the surface near the campgrounds at Fort Wilderness Resort.
“Took the boat from MK to the campgrounds for a hoop dee doo reservation and was able to capture some pictures.”
This particular alligator was spotted hanging around the Fort Wilderness Campground area, a very popular resort that many Disney World guests enjoy during the holiday season in Florida.
Fort Wilderness, although not a monorail resort like Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, is close to Magic Kingdom, a place full of small children and families enjoying magical experiences throughout their day.
The gator attack incident at Walt Disney World in 2016 was a tragic event that led to increased safety measures and a renewed focus on wildlife conservation.
Ultimately changing the lives of Melissa Graves and Matt Graves forever, the loss of their young son, Lane Thomas Graves, should serve as a reminder that although Disney World is a magical place, it is not immune to accidents and danger.
Walt Disney World remains committed to providing guests with a safe and magical experience while demonstrating responsible stewardship of the environment.
By continuously evaluating and improving safety protocols and actively participating in wildlife conservation efforts, the Resort ensures that the enchanting world of Disney harmoniously coexists with the natural wildlife that calls it home.
In the event of an alligator sighting, guests are advised to immediately report it to the nearest Disney Cast Member and follow all safety guidelines provided.
As per Disney World rules and regulations, signs are clearly posted showing the immediate dangers of wildlife and the risk they pose to guests. There is a reason that Disney does not allow free-swimming in their waterways, and alligators are big part of that, so, stay dry!
Walt Disney World Resort is the most iconic and magical vacation destination globally, drawing millions of guests each year to immerse themselves in a world of enchantment and wonder. With its vast array of theme parks, resort hotels, entertainment, and dining options, Disney World offers an exciting and magical experience for guests of all ages.
Due to Walt Disney World Resort being a popular tourist location, Disney has a list of rules they enforce before allowing guests to enter into the parks. Disney World is home to four theme parks: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Each park sees thousands of guests daily.
According to recent reports, Disney World is now testing a new security measure that may help speed up the lines, and be easier for Disney security to see inside of bags. Disney is testing out an all-new machine that will allow guests with bags to be able to place their bags in a bin, a procedure similar to what guests might encounter at an airport or other facilities.
This new machine will allow guests, instead of walking in line with bags, to head to another security line if the scanner flags something unusual. But it will allow Disney security to see what is inside guests’ bags without opening them. If necessary, security personnel may still perform a manual check of the bag.
To maintain a safe environment, Disney World guests are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the complete list of prohibited items before their visit.
Disney World’s official website includes a list of items that are prohibited inside the parks. These items include but are not limited to firearms, ammunition, knives, and weapons of any kind. Guests cannot bring in self-defense devices, any illegal substance, fireworks, alcoholic beverages, wagons, selfie sticks, and several other items. For the full list, guests can head to Disney’s official website.
Disney has these safety measures in place to keep Cast Members and Disney World guests safe. Disney works hard to protect the safety of people inside their parks.
In a momentous occasion marking a significant step forward in the transformation of Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Park, the long-awaited revitalization of the iconic Splash Mountain ride has finally begun. After its closure last year, the attraction has now experienced an exciting development. For the very first time in months, the refreshing sound of gushing water can be heard once again as the flume ride was recently filled with water. This crucial preparatory step is an essential milestone in the ride’s transition into the enchanting world of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.
The anticipation for this transformation has been steadily building among Disney fans and guests alike, who have eagerly awaited the next chapter of this beloved attraction. Known for its thrilling dips, splashes, and captivating storyline, Splash Mountain has long been a favorite among visitors of all ages. However, the time has come for this classic ride to be reborn with a unique twist inspired by the magical and vibrant world of Princess Tiana from Princess and the Frog.
As the water funneled down the familiar flume channels, it signaled the beginning of a new chapter for the Splash Mountain attraction. The ride’s transformation is a testament to the innovation and creativity of the renowned Walt Disney Imagineering team, who have seamlessly merged the iconic aspects of the ride with the captivating world of Tiana and her Bayou Adventure.
Imagineers meticulously designed every aspect of this transformation to transport guests directly into the heart of Tiana’s enchanting bayou. From the moment guests embark on their journey, they will be immersed in the sights, sounds, and vibrant atmosphere of New Orleans and its surrounding natural wonders. As the flume boat glides through the bayou, theme park guests will encounter familiar characters from the beloved film, such as Tiana, Prince Naveen, Mama Odie, and the jazz-loving alligator Louis.
Another big milestone for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom Park — the flume after the 50-foot drop was filled with water last night for the first time since Splash Mountain closed!
The near completion of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort represents another fantastic addition to the vast array of unforgettable experiences available at Walt Disney World Resort. It also exemplifies Disney’s commitment to continually crafting new and immersive adventures for guests of all ages. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Princess Tiana or a first-time visitor to the magical world of Walt Disney, this transformative ride is sure to create lasting memories and capture the hearts of all who embark on this enchanting adventure.
Prepare to be swept away by the rhythmic melodies, thrilling water effects, and immersive storytelling that await you on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. With its vibrant setting, beloved characters, and unforgettable moments, this reimagined attraction promises to be a must-visit destination for all those seeking a taste of the magic that only a Disney Park can deliver. Let the anticipation build as we eagerly await the grand unveiling of this extraordinary journey into the heart of the bayou alongside Princess Tiana later this spring!
It seems people and water go together like peas and carrots, especially at Walt Disney World. In recent months, Disney has experienced an increased number of guests leaving ride vehicles to enter the water at popular attractions at Magic Kingdom, bathing in fountains, or jumping from bridges at EPCOT.
January 31 wasn’t much of a different story as early reports via Facebook user Jennifer Jarrell show a guest following suit near Tom Sawyer Island at Magic Kingdom.
Posted to a private Annual Passholders group on Facebook around 9:30 p.m., Jennifer’s post shows a Magic Kingdom guest, with a life preserver, who had reportedly jumped from his small watercraft (raft) while on his way to the popular hideaway tucked away in Frontierland at the flagship park in Walt Disney World Resort.
Jennifer captioned the photo as follows:
“Anybody got news or info on the jumper from Tom Sawyer rafts today around 2:00 p.m.? We watched him refuse to swim to the side after they threw him a life preserver. Curious to know what happened.”
As it’s always big news when someone breaks the rules in such a dangerous manner at Walt Disney World, the post has garnered a ton of reactions and comments. Many are quick to point out the growing problem of guests entering waterways around Walt Disney World property.
Of course, anyone familiar with Central Florida will tell you that no matter how appealing those ponds, rivers, lakes, and creeks may look on a hot day, it’s never a good idea to go in blind. Sadly, the worst-case scenario played out in 2016 when a small child was killed by an alligator while visiting Disney World’s Grand Floridian Resort.
Although the body of water in question today was located inside the park, it is not safe to assume that it is free of potentially dangerous wildlife.
In fact, Tom Sawyer Island, where the incident occurred, saw half of Magic Kingdom shut down last year when a black bear was spotted in that area of the park. Despite the danger of drowning, wildlife remains a serious concern in terms of guest safety, especially in waterways in and around Walt Disney World.
In fact, one commenter pointed out that this particular body of water in Magic Kingdom is the only one where they’ve actually seen an alligator, further pointing out how silly the act of rule-breaking was.
It’s unclear at the moment what happened to the guest or how the situation was resolved. Certainly, behavior like this will earn guests a lifetime ban from Disney property, especially as the consensus believes it wasn’t an accident. Others who were present solidified Jennifer’s claim that the guest in the water refused a life preserver from Cast Members.
Because of this, the assumption is that he most likely made the conscious decision to enter as opposed to falling in.
For those unfamiliar, Tom Sawyer Island at Magic Kingdom is a unique and adventurous attraction that takes guests on a journey back in time to the days of Mark Twain’s famous characters. Located in the heart of the park, this immersive experience offers visitors a chance to explore an island filled with secret caves, wilderness trails, and hidden treasures.
As soon as guests step foot on Tom Sawyer Island, they are transported to a world of imagination and excitement. The island is accessible by raft, which adds an extra touch of adventure to the experience. Once on the island, visitors can embark on their own explorations at their own pace.
One of the highlights of Tom Sawyer Island is Fort Langhorn, a detailed replica of a frontier fort from the 19th century. Inside the fort, guests can climb to the top of the watchtower for a stunning view of the surrounding area. They can also wander through the interior rooms and learn about the history of the American frontier.
Nature lovers will be delighted by the lush wilderness trails that wind through the island. As guests wander along the paths, they can encounter picturesque waterfalls, hidden caves, and even a barrel bridge. The island is designed to provide a sense of tranquility and escape from the bustling theme park, offering a chance to reconnect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the outdoors.
For those seeking even more excitement, Tom Sawyer Island features an eerie and mysterious underground passage, one known as Injun Joe’s Cave. As guests explore the dimly lit tunnels, they can discover hidden secrets and relics left behind by the infamous character from Mark Twain’s stories.
The cave adds an element of mystery and suspense to the overall experience, keeping guests on their toes.
Tom Sawyer Island is not just about adventure and exploration but also offers opportunities for relaxation. Guests can find respite at Aunt Polly Dockside Inn, a charming spot to sit back and enjoy a picnic while overlooking the scenic Big Thunder Mountain attraction in Frontierland and the Haunted Mansion in Liberty Square.
It’s the perfect place to take a break, refuel, and soak in the atmosphere of the island.
Tom Sawyer Island at Magic Kingdom is a captivating and immersive attraction that allows guests to step into the world of Mark Twain’s beloved characters. From exploring Fort Langhorn to wandering through the wilderness trails, there is no shortage of adventures on this secluded island.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique experience, Tom Sawyer Island offers something for everyone.
As per Jennifer’s Facebook post, the incident happened on the small rafts that escort guests to and from the island. During a trip, the guest apparently made the decision to jump into the water. These situations are becoming more prevalent at Walt Disney World, with incidents occurring in a few different spots over the last year or so, but even as they rise in popularity, they don’t decrease in danger.
Simply put, when guests enter a Disney Park, they are agreeing to act in accordance with Disney’s rules and regulations. Of course these are in place to protect the Walt Disney Company from lawsuits, but also to keep guests and Cast Members safe while enjoying a magical time. Stay out of the water, people.
