Disney does the right thing on same-sex marriage

Last month I wrote an article about how Disney was keeping same-sex couples from celebrating their commitment ceremonies on their California and Florida properties--and consequently Reuters is now reporting that Disney will start allowing same-couples to participate in their Fairy Tale Wedding program. (Reuters even specifically cites our article.)

Said Disney Parks and Resorts spokesman Donn Walker, "We are updating our Fairy Tale Wedding guidelines to include commitment ceremonies. This is consistent with our policy of creating a welcoming, respectful and inclusive environment for all of our guests."

When I first contacted Disney about this situation, they basically argued that since neither Florida nor California recognize same-sex marriage, Disney's hands were tied and they couldn't offer their services to gay and lesbian couples. This wasn't true, but it was Disney's argument.

The legal situation was slightly different in California where same-sex couples were allowed to celebrate their commitment ceremonies on Disney properties, but not using the same planners as straight couples nor could they use the Rose Court Garden which was strictly reserved for heterosexuals.

So what prompted the change? Walker said it was because of a "an inquiry from a guest that asked about this service." Walker then said he had to go have lunch with Tinker Bell and Goofy.

(Click read more to learn the rest of what happened.)

I love the way they make themselves sound so reasonable, and who knows? Maybe there's some truth to it. But, uh, when I inquired about the very same thing just weeks ago, Disney felt their policy was completely fair as it stood. Said Disney spokesperson Jason DiPietre before the announcement of this new policy, "The Walt Disney World Resort is open to everyone, every day. We extend our welcome to everyone to everyone and treat all of our guests with respect."

I'm not trying to give myself too much credit, but I suspect our article had a fair bit to do with the change. That being said, I congratulate Disney on stepping up to the plate and doing the right thing. In fact, I think everyone should get in touch with Disney to thank them for making this change as I have no doubt at all that the homophobes will be out in droves screaming that Disney's treating gay and lesbian couples somehow discriminates against their religious beliefs.

One of the things I love about my job is the chance to actually affect changes like this one!

Here is how to contact Disney:

Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons at Disneyland Resort: 714 956 6527

Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons at Walt Disney World Resort: 321 939 4610

or via their websites here or here.