Animating Difference ─ Race, Gender, and Sexuality in Contemporary Films for Children

Animating Difference studies the way race, ethnicity, sexuality, and gender are portrayed in recent animated films from 1990 through the present. Ranging from Aladdin to Toy Story to Up, these popular films are key media through which children (and adults) learn about the world and how to behave. While racial and gender stereotypes may not be as obvious as they may have been in films of decades past, they often continue to convey troubling messages and stereotypes in subtle and surprising ways.

C. Richard King is professor of comparative ethnic studies and chair of the department at Washington State University. He is the author of several books, including Team Sprits (2001 CHOICE Outstanding Award Winner) and Beyond the Cheers. Carmen R. Lugo-Lugo is associate professor of comparative ethnic studies at Washington State University and the author of a number of articles on the representation of Latinos and other marginalized groups in contemporary popular culture. Mary K. Bloodsworth-Lugo is professor of comparative ethnic studies at Washington State University and the author of In-Between Bodies and a number of articles on sexuality and popular culture.