I loved everything Disney when I was a little girl, from Mickey Mouse and the gang to the Princesses. My favourite Disney princesses were Ariel from The Little Mermaid, Jasmine from Aladdin, Pocahontas and finally Mulan.  As I grew older, I seemed to question why Disney was so slow at adding some diversity to their roster of princesses. Jasmine from Aladdin (1991), Pocahontas (1995), Mulan (1998), Tiana from The Princess and the Frog (2009). After Tiana was introduced, I saw a glimmer of hope that maybe one day Disney would debut a Latina princess.

And seven years after the debut of Disney’s fifth “ethnic” princess (Tiana), Disney is FINALLY welcoming Elena, its first princess inspired by diverse Latin cultures and folklore. Elena of Avalor is going to debut this Summer on the Disney Channel. So Disney didn’t go as far as making a movie about a Latina princess, but this is a step in the right direction, I think. I’m still hopeful that Disney will introduce a Latina princess on the big screen 😉

Elena of Avalor

ELENA OF AVALOR – Character poses. (Disney Channel)
ELENA

Elena of Avalor follows the story of Elena, a brave and adventurous teenager who saves her kingdom from an evil sorceress. Elena must now learn to rule as crown princess until she is old enough to be queen. Elena’s adventures will lead her to understand that her new role requires thoughtfulness, resilience and compassion, the traits of all truly great leaders.

ELENA OF AVALOR – “Elena and the Secret of Avalor” – Character poses. (Disney Channel)
ELENA

The inspiring story of Elena of Avalor will be shared in 33 languages in 163 countries on Disney Channels worldwide. Families can see Disney’s newest princess in person at Disney Parks.  At Walt Disney World Resort, Elena will appear in the Magic Kingdom. At Disneyland Resort, she will appear at Disney California Adventure.  The Disney Princesses at Walt Disney World Resort will welcome Elena in August.

I’m looking forward to checking out the first episode of Elena of Avalor this Summer to learn about her character and see how Disney adapts/interprets Latino cultures and folklores. Elena of Avalor’s expected release is July 22 on the Disney Channel.