I’ve kept this blog up and running since 2016, but now it’s time to completely reinvent it. Everything is being gutted and redone, and I’m setting out on a fresh journey with the blog. You might be wondering why this reinvention is taking place. It’s simply due to the fact that I didn’t feel connected to my blog, and it didn’t feel personal enough. I want the blog to be a community that helps each other.
My blog has taken a new direction and now contains a different approach to planning travel to Disney destinations.
So, why the overhaul? This new launch of my blog is all about being “an authentic Disney travel planning blog for modern families. Toddler-tested, mami-approved. An inclusive guide to Disney by a local LGBTQ+ mom who gets it.”
That’s my new blog phrase, do you like it?
I love it.
Disney World is a the vacation capital of the world, but have you ever planned a trip to the ‘Most Magical Place on Earth’ and thought, ‘Is this magic really for a family like mine?'”
This is a question that resonates profoundly as we continue to try and understand our identities in this ever,so,fantastical place. I, both a Latina and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, invite you to think critically about your experiences in the parks and how they’re part of our bigger narrative.
Why Do We Even Care
When organizing a trip to Disney with two moms, the thrill is in the air. But being part of this community can bring doubts that though the attractions and snacks are calling, no one wants to be the “only one.” Do you know what I mean? The only brown one in the room, the only queer family? There’s an added dash of magic that seems to come from sharing the experience with other LGBTQ families.
To start with, it’s all about connection. Being around other LGBTQ families allows us to partake in the distinctly wonderful experience that is our shared journey. We have tales to tell, jokes to let loose, and an understanding that can come only from living life as part of the LGBTQ community.
So in this post, I’ll walk you through what’s special about being part of this secret society, with the first of several inside jokes—like how to answer those totally predictable questions about who the “real” mom is (spoiler: it’s both of us!).
Additionally, let’s remember how vital it is to have representation. Seeing other LGBTQ families making memories at Disney is a powerful reinforcement of the idea that family comes in many forms. And what could be more empowering for our kids than to witness the unfettered expression of love in all its beautiful diversity—a life lesson that goes beyond the gates of any theme park?
And let’s not kid ourselves, who doesn’t want to make an idiotic selfie with another two-mom family before Cinderella’s Castle? It’s all about making memories and building a community that celebrates our distinctions while loving the very essence of being together. So, as we prepare for our Disney jaunt, we’re not just in this for the grins; we’re in this for the family—our kind of family.
Latinx Heritage at Disney World?
I can’t believe we, two brown, queer, Latinx women, chose to leave the progressive bubble of New Jersey for the distinctly conservative climate of Florida. The transition has certainly been a culture shock. However, aside from the political climate, there are genuinely many things to like about life here.
The time we spent near Tampa showed us a community that was much more conservative than we had thought it would be, almost like stepping into a time capsule and not having any kind of dialogue that was progressive. Yet when we sought refuge in the spellbinding realm of Disney, it felt like we were in a completely different place.
Disney’s commemoration of Latinx culture shines so brightly that it shocks me every time. Just yesterday, we dined at Disney Springs and came upon an authentic Latinx group playing live music. People were dancing and having such a good time.
Whether it’s the Mexico Pavillion at Epcot or the Disney Springs entertainment, Disney does a wonderful job of paying tribute to our culture. It’s a place where we can absolutely embrace our identities, where we’re safe to express ourselves, and where the only thing we hear more than “Welcome” is probably “¡Bienvenidos!” (which I know I’m ready to hear in just a few days again). It’s an oasis in the middle of a state that otherwise seems to have a really loud governor.
Creating Our Own Magic
Families can create their own extraordinary moments that honor and celebrate their cultures, personalities, and LGBTQ+ identities. They can craft together the kind of experiences that punctuate a visit to the parks and make it a special remembrance.
There are endless options, whether you’re looking for personalized keepsakes or just plain gifts. How about designing T-shirts to match your family’s personalities, or better yet, your Disney-bound alter egos? Because if you’re going to coordinate, might as well go with some characters who live their lives with wild abandon.
Utilize the varied dining options available at Disney to have culinary experiences that echo your cultural heritage. Whether dining at a restaurant serving the kind of food that makes you feel at home or sharing a beloved family recipe at a picnic in the park, food has a truly magical way of bringing people together.
Let’s Connect
I want everyone to find a sense of belonging in Disney World. This is what I learned from reflecting on my own experiences and from having conversations with others who have traveled the same path.
Some people may think that a theme park cannot have such an impact on the intangible things that help make us who we are. Disney parks have the power to connect with us in these deep and personal ways.