Disney’s Moana costume slammed as “inappropriate”
A new play suit released by the Disney Store for the upcoming film Moana, has been slammed for cultural appropriation.
The costume replicates the outfit worn by Maui in the film, the demi-god, voiced by Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson. Here’s the official image of the outfit that Disney are selling for $61:
“Your little one will set off on adventures in this Maui Costume featuring the demigod’s signature tattoos, rope necklace and island-style skirt. Plus, padded arms and legs for mighty stature!” the description reads on the Disney website.
Maori New Zealanders and members of the Polynesian community are not happy about it. A spokesperson for the New Zealand Human Rights Commission said:
“Right now Polynesian people from across the Pacific region are voicing their views about this costume and it’s their voices that are important right now. We hope Disney listens to the views of the communities and people whose cultures their movie is based upon.”
Karaitiana Taiuru, an advocate for Maori people, added:
“We need to take a stand now and say, ‘Look, this is not appropriate,’ to prevent other entrepreneurs trying to do something similar. The tattoo is sacred and it’s unique to the wearer. People don’t just go and get some sort of design, in Maori culture you don’t just go and get something that looks Maori.”
Many also expressed their disapproval of the product on twitter:
Disney is yet to comment on the matter. Moana hits screens on 23rd November and you can watch the trailer below: