To Create Innovative Products, Toy Companies Should Prioritize Employing Diverse Talent

Spotlight on Disney Television Animation VP Jay Francis

July 16, 2019 | From 'Doc McStuffins' and 'Elena of Avalor' to its new series, 'Amphibia,' Disney animated programming highlights authentic points of view and stories that exemplify diversity and inclusion. Those stories could not have been developed without a workplace culture that supports and creatively encourages employees from various ethnicities and backgrounds to contribute their ideas.

Toy News Tuesday caught up with Jay Francis, vice president of current series and diversity & inclusion for Disney Television Animation (a division of The Walt Disney Company responsible for creating its animated series) and a member of The Toy Association’s Diversity & Inclusion Committee, to discuss how toy companies can nurture employees to create products and content that all children can relate to and play with. Here’s what he had to say….

Why was it important to you to join the Diversity & Inclusion Committee and why do you feel this is an important topic to address in the toy/youth industries?

Francis: When I was approached about joining, I felt it made sense given how successful entertainment content often inspires brand extensions, especially toys. I think diversity and inclusion is important in ALL areas of life, but given how much time and energy kids spend consuming entertainment (whether it’s TV, movies, games, toys, the internet, etc.), we in the content creation industry need to take responsibility for the authentic portrayal of people, culture, and experiences. 

Can you share examples of how Disney Television Animation has fostered diversity and inclusion in the workplace?

Francis: We have consistently looked at ways to cultivate diversity and inclusion in our workplace by creating several programs designed to provide support, education, and career development for our personnel. These programs include creative mentorship programs, workshops, an artist/writer internship program, networking opportunities, and social mixers to name a few.    

How has that workplace culture been reflected in the consumer experience and products?

Francis:  At Disney Television Animation, we have a diverse mix of artists, writers, producers, executives, and administrative personnel who all work and collaborate together to bring an incredible amount of aspirational characters that reflect our diverse world. From 'Doc McStuffins' and 'Elena of Avalor' to 'Ducktales,' 'Amphibia,' and the 'Mickey Mouse' shorts, our programming highlights authentic points of view, rich storytelling with heart, and stories that matter.

How can the toy/youth industry advance diversity and inclusion in their own companies?

Francis: The key is to make it a priority to employ diverse and underrepresented talent throughout the company. Let them take it from there…  

Any final thoughts?

Francis: I am really looking forward to working with my Committee colleagues to promote and encourage more diverse talent and inclusive measures within the toy industry that will ultimately lead to even more creative and unique playthings reflective of today’s diverse society.

Members interested in joining or learning more about any of The Toy Association’s Committees may contact Bernadette Boyle, senior membership manager.