Disney has always been known for its accepting, family-oriented reputation. Many children grow up watching Disney Channel, and the company always aims to be relatable and inspirational whilst promoting diversity; however, they have fallen short when it comes to progressing with the rest of the world. Though Disney continues to have a racially diverse cast in their shows and original movies, they don’t have any characters of any other sexuality besides straight. This cannot be good for children who are trying to understand their sexuality and see no representation.

Recently, Disney star Rowan Blanchard, who plays Riley Matthews in the hit TV series “Girl Meets World,” came out as queer on her Twitter account. Blanchard is an active feminist who is constantly voicing her opinions about serious matters from white feminism to the Black Lives Matter movement, which she is a big supporter of.

Via Twitter, she explained why she identifies as queer. “In my life – I only ever liked boys, however I personally don’t wanna label myself as straight, gay or whatever so I am not gonna give myself labels to stick with – just existing.” When asked by a fan to further explain she replied saying she is “open to liking any gender in the future.”

Unfortunately, even after explaining herself and her sexuality, Blanchard received a surprising amount of backlash. Despite being only 14 years old with a record of highly liberal views, it is difficult to understand why she received so much hate now when she has had nothing but support when opening up about other issues in the past. I feel as though this was the final straw for some conservatives who still followed her because of Blanchard’s connection to Disney. I am curious to find out if Disney will stand with their young starlet, or maintain their conservative affiliation, perhaps keeping their silence like they have in previous situations.

The main concern seems to be whether is it appropriate for the younger audience who follow her career to learn about the LGBT community or not. But, with the amount of progress that not only society, but our country has made in regards to equalizing rights for the LGBT community, why wouldn’t it be?

Not only is it important for kids to be informed about topics that are so prominent today, but it is even more essential for children to feel represented, especially those who don’t know that their sexuality is completely normal.

Back in early 2014, Disney Channel debuted their first lesbian couple on their series “Good Luck Charlie.” After receiving so much hate, including death threats to the 5-year-old who played Charlie, Disney kept their silence.

Although there are always people who are bound to be upset, Disney should continue to promote such diversity, especially since their channel has always been about representing and entertaining children from multiple backgrounds. If children see LGBT sexualities being discussed normally on a show with so much influence on their young minds, it will help them understand the subject, prevent them from bullying other kids of different sexualities and help those who are beginning to understand theirs.

As for Blanchard, she is a great influence, not just for the kids who look up to her, but for young people everywhere. I have learned so much from her and can only imagine what children with developing minds can pick up. As opposed to other celebrities who can offend certain groups in their attempt to express their opinion on others, Blanchard keeps everyone in consideration.

Blanchard being public about her sexuality can help the young people who look up to her not only be more open-minded but it can also help those who have not had the courage to come out. If Disney were to be more vocal about such issues, they could have the power to help children worldwide and give an entire generation the opportunity to be more accepting.