PixarOvjeren akaunt

I am excited for an African American audience to see themselves represented in our film, Soul, and I hope that it motivates the next generation to create more diverse bodies of work.” #BlackHistoryMonth #InsidePixar

As a kid, I grew up loving animation and dreamed of working at Pixar. I have waited a lifetime to make this happen, so it’s a pretty big deal that I’m here now and I'm so thankful to be a part of it.

The American economy was launched with the labor of black slaves in the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. I believe that every month is Black History Month not just February and I am very proud of our contributions to American history.” #BlackHistoryMonth #InsidePixar

The roots of American music come out of the blues folk and gospel traditions of music that are fundamental to the African American experience. Toni Morrison's stories are American stories that feature black characters.

Fast forward to 2020 and my views have clarified. I have come to realize that African American history is actually American history. The two cannot be separated.

In 1976, President Gerald Ford recognized Black History Month on a national level. I remember being very excited that the federal government felt it important enough to officially recognize these achievements.

My parents were both college graduates and they taught my brother and I about many events throughout history that black people were instrumental in that did not necessarily end up in the textbooks of the time.

That the characters they see up on the screen feel as culturally authentic as they do universal.” #BlackHistoryMonth #InsidePixar

Regardless of ethnicity, there are some themes that are universal, and I believe SOUL gets to the heart of many of those themes. That being said, I take this representation very seriously. I want to make sure this is a film my own kids and family can enjoy and be proud of.

and that having African American leads and casts weren’t such an unusual thing to see in animation. But times are changing, and I’m honored to be a part of that change. We relate to one another so much better when we’re given an opportunity to see the humanity in each other.