“But, He’s So Serious”: Framing of Masculinity Among Western Hemisphere Indigenous Peoples in Disney Animated Films

Abstract

Few studies to date have examined Indigenous characters in children’s media. Stereotyping or omission of underrepresented groups contributes to symbolic annihilation of underrepresented groups, such as Indigenous persons. Through a qualitative textual design, the researcher explored how Western-Hemisphere Indigenous masculinity was framed in five Disney animated films. While Indigenous characters were positively portrayed, the researcher found displays of stereotypes, and an absence of character growth.