First, I want to congratulate actress Anika Noni Rose, who has just been named as the voice for Disney’s newest animated heroine, Princess Tiana.
Rose told People.com about her excitement:
“This feels amazing. Not only is she the first black princess, she’s the first American princess. We’ve never had an American princess. So, the scope and significance is larger than people even realize.”
Now this is where my inner teacher takes over.
Princess Tiana is not the first American Disney princess. Pocahontas, anyone? Although never given the official title, she’s constantly grouped with Cinderella, Snow White, and Belle. So although I am truly happy for Rose, and glad that Disney has finally included a black princess, let’s not overlook a Native American princess in the process.
