Is Depicting Ariel as a Black Woman in the New Disney Little Mermaid Movie Cultural Appropriation?

Recently, the casting of Halle Bailey as Ariel in Disney's live-action adaptation of The Little Mermaid has sparked a heated debate on the topic of cultural appropriation. Here, we explore the key points to consider as we analyze this thorny issue.

Cultural Context of the Original Story

The original tale of The Little Mermaid was penned by Hans Christian Andersen, a Danish author, and it reflects European cultural elements. However, when stories are adapted and reinterpreted, they often resonate with contemporary audiences and diverse cultures. Disney's version of The Little Mermaid, while rooted in Andersen's original narrative, takes on a life of its own, separate from the Danish author's work. The 1989 animated film established Ariel as a character beloved across cultures, and her story has been embraced globally. This adaptation has transformed a traditionally white character into an inclusive and diverse one.

Representation and Inclusivity

The casting of a Black actress as Ariel can be seen as a significant step toward greater representation in media. It challenges traditional portrayals and allows for a broader range of audiences to see themselves in iconic characters. The concept of a mermaid, while rooted in European folklore, has counterparts in many cultures, which allows for flexibility in how characters are depicted in adaptations. This inclusivity expands the boundaries of what is considered culturally appropriate, giving more voices a platform.

Cultural Appropriation vs. Cultural Appreciation

Cultural appropriation typically involves the unacknowledged or inappropriate adoption of elements from one culture by members of another culture without understanding or respect for the original significance. In the case of Halle Bailey's portrayal of Ariel, the casting choice can be interpreted as cultural appreciation rather than appropriation. Celebrating diversity and reflecting modern values of inclusivity and representation is at the heart of this decision.

One-Way or Two-Way Street

Cultural appropriation is often discussed in terms of power dynamics, where dominant cultures adopt elements from marginalized cultures without acknowledgment or respect. However, the casting of a Black Ariel does not involve these same dynamics. It is an inclusive reinterpretation of a fictional character, not the appropriation of specific cultural symbols or practices. This reflects the evolving conversation about cultural representation, highlighting the need for adaptations to reflect the diversity of society. Characters can be reimagined in ways that may not align with their original depictions.

Conclusion

In summary, the casting of Halle Bailey as Ariel can be viewed as a progressive move towards inclusivity and representation rather than cultural appropriation. It highlights the importance of reinterpreting classic stories to reflect a more diverse world, allowing for broader connections and relevance across different cultures. The evolving nature of cultural representation underscores the need for adaptations to resonate with a global audience, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued.

As the conversation about cultural representation continues to evolve, it is crucial to approach storytelling with an open and inclusive mindset. This not only enriches the stories themselves but also fosters a more connected and accepting global community.