Disney Accused Of Brownface After Releasing Controversial ‘Moana’ Kids Costume For Halloween
Disney has come under fire for selling a pretty dodgy looking Halloween costume of one of the movie’s characters in upcoming Polynesian animation film Moana.
Last weekend, a costume of Polynesian god Maui went up for sale at the Disney Store and online, the getup consists of a brown bodysuit with traditional tattoos printed on the fabric. It’s just weird AF.
As a Poly I support our folk involved in #MOANA. But this? NO.Our Brown Skin/Ink's NOT a costume. @DisneyMoana pic.twitter.com/X0pacppAqV
— TheBlackSheep.com (@LivinOffTheGrid) September 18, 2016
The costume has predictably drawn controversy and who could be surprised? It’s essentially a brownsuit, which is a similiar breed of insensitive racial appropriation to brownface.
The costume description reads:
“Your little one will set off on adventures in this Maui costume featuring the demigod’s signature tattoos, rope necklace, and island-style skirt.”
Since images of the costume have surfaced online, many people on Twitter – including Polynesian users – have taken to social media, accusing Disney of appropriating sacred Hawaiian and Oceanic traditions.
We are not a costume.
Say no to this #Moana @TheRock https://t.co/UW38BI6K1r— Robyn Lucas (@robyn_lucas) September 18, 2016
i love moana but delete that maui costume @Disney yikes
— am i pregegnant (@holypizzaground) September 19, 2016
https://twitter.com/honeysdew/status/777734744393981952