This Thanksgiving Disney released their newest Disney princess Moana (voiced by Auli’i Cravalho). This Polynesian princess goes a high seas adventure to find the demi-god Maui (voiced by Dwayne Johnson) in an epic adventure to save her people from many mythical creatures.

  Disney is focusing on making movies recognizing different cultures and ethnics, including Elena of Avalor, the first hispanic Disney Princess which aired on Disney Channel on July 22, 2016.

  Disney’s decision to go multicultural has been met with a lot of excitement and acclaim.

  “When I first heard about the movie, I was stunned. I was so touched and happy about how recently Disney Princesses are being born from different parts of the world. I truly can’t wait to see the film. I heard it was going to be a good one,” says junior Yajaira Velasco-Valdez.    

  Junior Mireya Melero agrees and is hopeful that other animators follow Disney’s example.

   “When I first heard that Disney was coming out with a Hawaiian princess, I was so excited. I believe there needs to be more of that type of representation in children’s movies, so I was very happy with their choice,” she says. “I had seen the art of what the animators were going for and I thought she looked gorgeous.”

  Senior Elijah Gomez agrees with the personalities of the many characters.

  “The character that The Rock is playing is a really fun and the relationship that him and moana have seem to make them perfect for each other,” Gomez says.

  For junior Morgan Andrade, Disney having strong leading ladies in their latest movies is the best asset.

  “I love the fact that the recent Disney movies and the remakes are having leading ladies. Disney is putting forward a great message about girls can be strong too.”

  Melero agrees saying, “Moana is so beautiful and I feel like her story can impact a lot of little girls and boys lives.”