It's crazy to me to think of how it's already been over two years since Disney's "Frozen" came out. It seems like yesterday I was belting the lyrics to "Let it Go"... probably because it was.
"Frozen" was a hit because not only was it a fantastic animated movie with crazy catchy songs, it's considered arguably the most progressive animated Disney film so far. Disney gave the whole "helpless princess is rescued by terribly charming prince" thing a rest, and instead opted for a plot insisting women can be their own heroes. Additionally, the song "Let it Go" is widely believed to allude to coming out. The shame Elsa feels about hiding her powers in a society that fears them can resonate with people in our own society who have hidden their sexuality for fear of being ridiculed or rejected. "Letting it go" is acknowledging those fears and pushing them aside, choosing to be yourself whether people like it or not.
This can apply to any aspect of being yourself, not just sexuality. But what if Disney chose to take that idea and run with it? Many people online have spoken out that this is exactly what Disney should do in "Frozen's" sequal: by giving "Frozen" star, Elsa, a female love interest.
People have taken to the Twittersphere, voicing their support of the idea loud and proud, using the hashtag, #GiveElsaAGirlfriend.
Some artists have even drawn what the lucky lady would look like.
I have to say, I think this is an awesome idea. Disney is such a huge part of our culture, and what child doesn't look up to the characters he or she sees in Disney movies? The problem is, growing up, children are really only exposed to predominantly straight media and entertainment. They (for the most part) do not grow up seeing anything that says "gay is OK too". Elsa, the would-be first ever lesbian princess, would teach kids from a young age that love is love, no matter the gender.
I imagine gay kids growing up with a gay Disney princess will have a much easier time coming out. Representation is everything.
And imagine the greater acceptance this generation of kids might have in general, if Disney were to implement something like this. A child notices her friend has not one, but two mommies. She is confused at first, but then smiles with recognition. "Your mommies are just like Elsa and her girlfriend," she beams.