Disney Rejects Anti-LGBTQ+ Proposal with Overwhelming Vote

Disney Shuts Down Anti-LGBTQ+ Proposal—and Why That Matters in a Galaxy Not So Far Away

Soeren Kamper Disney

In a move that would make the Jedi Council nod in quiet approval, Disney has just overwhelmingly rejected a shareholder proposal aimed at curbing LGBTQ+ content across its media empire. This isn’t just about corporate policy—it’s about the future of storytelling in some of the world’s most beloved universes, including Star Wars.

The proposal, brought forward by conservative activist shareholder group the National Legal and Policy Center (NLPC), called on Disney to limit LGBTQ+ themes, citing what they framed as reputational and financial risks. Spoiler alert: shareholders were not having it. The vote wasn’t even close. The rejection was as swift and final as Vader’s response to “Do you feel cold in that helmet?”

The Proposal That Tried to Go Full Dark Side

The resolution, while framed in business language, essentially took aim at Disney’s ongoing efforts to promote inclusion and diversity across its various brands. The pitch? That featuring LGBTQ+ characters or themes could “alienate” some audiences and hurt profits.

The reality? Shareholders gave that logic the same treatment Luke gave the Death Star—complete destruction from the inside out.

Disney’s Board of Directors, for their part, recommended voting against the proposal, affirming that inclusion remains a core value. In short: this isn’t a phase, and it’s not going away.

Why Star Wars Is Part of This Conversation

So, what does this have to do with Star Wars, you ask?

Let’s talk about canon, representation, and blaster-wielding resistance.

Over the past decade, Lucasfilm has slowly but steadily introduced more LGBTQ+ characters into the Star Wars universe. From minor nods in the sequel trilogy to deeper inclusivity in books, comics, and animation (The High Republic series, anyone?), it’s clear that the galaxy far, far away is finally reflecting the diversity of the one we live in.

And while it hasn’t always been fast—or perfect—these moves have been important steps forward. Reversing course on that progress? That’s not the way.

Had this proposal succeeded, there’s a chance those kinds of inclusive storylines could have been put at risk. That includes everything from background characters to major story arcs, especially in emerging projects where Disney holds creative control—from The Acolyte to future games, series, and novels under the Star Wars umbrella.

The Bigger Picture for Disney’s Creative Universe

Disney owns more than just Star Wars. We’re talking Marvel, Pixar, 20th Century Studios, and more streaming content than you could binge in three lifetimes. And in recent years, all of these have seen a steady rise in LGBTQ+ visibility—not as a box to check, but as a fundamental part of telling richer, more human stories.

Rejecting the proposal isn’t just symbolic; it’s a corporate declaration that diverse stories matter—and that they can coexist with commercial success.

The Mouse House has made mistakes in the past (looking at you, delayed acknowledgment of queer characters), but this move shows a stronger backbone and a clearer creative direction. Storytelling, at its best, reflects the audience. And that audience is wide, varied, and deserves to see itself on screen.

Let’s Not Pretend This Wasn’t a Battle

Just because the vote was a landslide doesn’t mean the issue is settled for good. Cultural battles have a way of circling back like a Sith Lord with unresolved trauma. But this particular moment matters. It’s a message to shareholders, creators, and yes—even rival studios—that inclusion isn’t a liability. It’s a value.

And for anyone who’s spent time reading Star Wars novels, building LEGO starfighters, or getting way too into lore on obscure Mandalorians, it’s pretty clear: the galaxy is stronger when it doesn’t limit who gets to be a hero.

Final Thoughts: Inclusion Is the Future—In the Boardroom and the Outer Rim

Disney’s decision to shoot down the anti-LGBTQ+ proposal isn’t just good business. It’s a win for storytelling. It protects the creative freedom behind some of the world’s biggest franchises, Star Wars included, and ensures that the next generation of tales—whether on Tatooine, Naboo, or Coruscant—can continue to evolve.

Because in this universe or any other, representation isn’t a side quest. It’s part of the main storyline.

Stay connected with all our latest updates by following us on Google News! It only takes a click, and it would mean a lot to us. You’ll get the freshest news, exclusiv