The author reflects on growing up with Disneyland as a magical escape that intertwined with her Asian American identity. She shares a poignant multigenerational trip to the park in 2017, coinciding with Lunar New Year festivities, which showcased Asian traditions and cuisines. The experience highlighted a blend of cultures and a moment of acceptance, making the author feel embraced by a place she viewed as traditionally 'American.' The memories become even more significant knowing her nieces will grow up in an increasingly inclusive society.
Our visits to Disney always felt like the prototypical all-American experience. We may not have been outwardly cognizant of it at the time, but perhaps we felt a connection since it was the one place where we saw characters that looked like us being represented.
Seeing a park that felt so 'American' embrace Asian traditions went beyond just feeling seen, but like really being embraced and understood. It felt especially poignant during my nieces' first visit-knowing they'll grow up in a more inclusive society.
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