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"Use Your Voice" interstitials showcase everyday kids who use their voice to create change in their community and around the world. In this segment, Bi, Yulu and Vanessa talk about their work with the International Indigenous Youth Council (IIYC), an organization dedicated to make positive change in their communities. The three teens share how they use their art to connect to their culture and make a positive difference in their community, including creating Artivism which is a collaboration between art and activism.

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"Use Your Voice" - Artivism

In "Cyrus’ Bash-Mitzvah" - After much preparation and planning, Cyrus' Bar Mitzvah festivities commence. Andi and her friends and family all join him in the celebration, which is full of landmark events for more than just Cyrus.

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Andi Mack | "Cyrus’ Bash-Mitzvah"

Inspired by diverse Latin cultures and folklore, Disney's Emmy® and Imagen Award-winning series "Elena of Avalor" tells the story of Elena, a brave and adventurous teenager who has been learning what it takes to be a great leader by ruling her enchanted fairytale kingdom as crown princess until she is old enough to be queen. 


This musical number ("In the Spirit of Love") featured in the "Flower of Light" episode highlights Felicia, a flamenco dancer of considerable talent who lost her passion for dance once her husband died. On this particular Dia De Los Muertos, she goes to the spirit realm to try and find him, only to be trapped. With Elena's help, she's able to get back to Avalor and sing this number in celebration of her dancing, her husband and her heritage. This piece is performed brilliantly by Broadway veteran, Olga Merediz.

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Elena of Avalor ‖ "Flower of Light"

"Marvel's Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur" follows 13-year-old super-genius Lunella Lafayette (aka Moon Girl) and her 10-ton T-Rex, Devil Dinosaur, as they protect New York City's Lower East Side from danger. Based on Marvel's hit comic books, the highly-anticipated Disney Branded Television animated series is slated to premiere on February 10, 2023 on Disney Channel and shortly after on Disney+.
 
Music video by Libe Barer performing Altz Iz Gutz (From "Marvel's Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur"). © 2023 Walt Disney Records

Libe Barer: Altz lz Gutz

Watch the full episode of Marvel's Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur Season 1 Episode 11, "Today, I Am A Woman". Hoping to help Casey have an epic bat mitzvah, Lunella makes an appearance as Moon Girl, which ultimately brings out the worst in Casey and causes a rift in their friendship.
 
Marvel's Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur, based on Marvel's hit comic books, follows the adventures of 13-year-old super-genius Lunella Lafayette and her 10-ton T-Rex, Devil Dinosaur. After Lunella accidentally brings Devil Dinosaur into present-day New York City, the duo works together to protect the city's Lower East Side from danger.

Marvel's Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur | Today, I Am A Woman

“Puppy for Hanukkah” is a fresh, humorous Hanukkah song for the whole family to enjoy. It helps show the spectrum of the Jewish American experience while also creating a cultural learning opportunity for all kids, no matter their background or faith. Performed by Tony and GRAMMY Award winner Daveed Diggs (Broadway's "Hamilton," ABC's "black-ish), the track features his distinctive vocal style, trademark flow, dense verses and memorable hook. The holiday hip-hop song was written and produced by Diggs with his longtime friends and creative partners William Hutson and Jonathan Snipes (also of the experimental hip-hop trio clipping). In creating “Puppy for Hanukkah,” Diggs was able to combine his love for music with his cultural and religious upbringing.

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"Puppy for Hanukkah"

This episode of Disney Junior's "Puppy Dog Pals" introduces kids 2-7 and their families to a few Hanukkah traditions.

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Puppy Dog Pals | "Get the Hanukkah Light"

The single-camera comedy series follows Harley Diaz as she maneuvers her way through the bustle of being a middle child in a family with six other siblings. The heartfelt and comedic stories of a big family find Harley devising creative ways to cope with – and stand out – in her family's busy suburban Massachusetts household. Her ingenuity often wins the day for the Diaz family, even with many different personalities living under one roof. In "Stuck in the Quinceañera," Harley takes on her buck-kid list before her quinceañera.

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Stuck in the Middle ‖ "Stuck in the Quinceañera"

Inspired by the cultures and customs of India, "Mira, Royal Detective" follows the brave and resourceful Mira, a young girl who is appointed to the role of royal detective by the Queen and travels throughout the fictional land of Jalpur solving mysteries for her friends, family and extended community. Featuring Leela Ladnier, the voice behind Disney Junior's first South Asian lead character, Mira, the interstitial, "We're on the Case: Diwali" highlights the customs, crafts, food and traditions that are featured in the Indian holiday of Diwali.

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Mira, Royal Detective ‖  "We're on the Case: Diwali"

Go behind the scenes and learn more about the making of "American Eid".
 
“AMERICAN EID,” Written and Directed by Aqsa Altaf.
 
Ameena, a Muslim Pakistani immigrant, wakes up on Eid to find out that she has to go to school. Homesick and heartbroken, she goes on a mission to make Eid a public-school holiday, and in the process, reconnects with her older sister, and embraces her new home, while her new home embraces her.
 
Disney’s “LAUNCHPAD” is a collection of live-action shorts from a new generation of dynamic storytellers. Six filmmakers from underrepresented backgrounds were selected and provided with the opportunity to share their perspectives and creative visions that will show audiences what it means to be seen. Inspired by life’s journey, these first six shorts for Disney+ are based on the theme, “Discover.”

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Disney's Launchpad | The Making of "American Eid"

This strong, queer Muslim feminist is a total icon

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The Bold Type: A Strong Muslim Woman

For Arda Öcal – NHL on ESPN host and SportsCenter anchor – Ramadan represents an important time for him as a Muslim.
 
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, and for 29-30 days during this time, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset.
 
In this video, Arda explains the importance of Ramadan and fasting, and he shares insight about the Muslim athletes that continued to play during the fasting period and why he is inspired by them.

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Arda Öcal on the Importance of Ramadan

Marvel Studios' "Moon Knight" follows Steven Grant, a mild-mannered gift-shop employee, who becomes plagued with blackouts and memories of another life. Steven discovers he has dissociative identity disorder and shares a body with mercenary Marc Spector. As Steven/Marc’s enemies converge upon them, they must navigate their complex identities while thrust into a deadly mystery among the powerful gods of Egypt.
 
“Moon Knight” stars Oscar Isaac, Ethan Hawke and May Calamawy. Mohamed Diab and the team of Justin Benson &amp; Aaron Moorhead directed the episodes. Jeremy Slater is the head writer, and Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Brad Winderbaum, Mohamed Diab, Jeremy Slater and Oscar Isaac are the executive producers. Grant Curtis, Trevor Waterson and Rebecca Kirsch serve as co-executive producers.

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Marvel Studios' Moon Knight | "Introducing Moon Knight"

Miep, who believes she's just a secretary, is asked to hide the Franks and must rise to the occasion. No longer ordinary, her first task is to get a nervous Margot into the secret hiding place in plain view of the Nazis.

A Small Light | The Untold Story of Miep Gies (Full Episode)

Marvel Studios’ “Ms. Marvel” is a new, original series that introduces Kamala Khan, a Muslim American teenager growing up in Jersey City. An avid gamer and a voracious fan-fiction scribe, Kamala is a Super Hero mega fan with an oversized imagination—particularly when it comes to Captain Marvel. Yet Kamala feels like she doesn’t fit in at school and sometimes even at home—that is, until she gets super powers like the heroes she’s always looked up to. Life gets better with super powers, right?
 
Iman Vellani stars as Kamala Khan aka Ms. Marvel. The cast also includes Aramis Knight, Saagar Shaikh, Rish Shah, Zenobia Shroff, Mohan Kapur, Matt Lintz, Yasmeen Fletcher, Laith Nakli, Azhar Usman, Travina Springer and Nimra Bucha.
 
Episodes are directed by Adil El Arbi &amp; Bilall Fallah, Meera Menon and Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy. Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso and Bisha K. Ali are the executive producers. Co-executive producers for the series are Sana Amanat and Trevor Waterson, and Bisha K. Ali is the head writer.

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Marvel Studios' Ms. Marvel | "I'm a Super Hero"

EMMY® NOMINATED Ramy is a first generation Egyptian-American who is on a spiritual journey in his politically-divided New Jersey neighborhood. RAMY will bring a new perspective to the screen as it explores the challenges of what it’s like being caught between a Muslim community that thinks life is a moral test and a millennial generation that thinks life has no consequences.

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Ramy Season 2 Trailer

Disney’s “LAUNCHPAD” is a collection of live-action shorts from a new generation of dynamic storytellers. Six filmmakers from underrepresented backgrounds were selected and provided with the opportunity to share their perspectives and creative visions that will show audiences what it means to be seen. Inspired by life’s journey, these first six shorts for Disney+ are based on the theme, “Discover.”

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Disney's Launchpad | Season One Trailer

Saima leads the Media Strategy for Freeform. She manages the media agency and works on the paid media (advertising) strategy for all of Freeform’s shows’ campaigns. If you see an ad on YouTube for a Freeform show, her team added it there.
 
What are you most looking forward to during Ramadan Celebration Month?
 
I’m overwhelmed with joy and excitement to finally have The Walt Disney Company recognize and celebrate Ramadan as part of its Reimagine Tomorrow’s Heritage Month series. Muslims have been participating in Ramadan for over 1,400 years, we are one-fourth of the world’s global population and one million alone reside in the greater Los Angeles area. To have the largest media company in the world celebrate a month that sits so deeply with Muslims globally is humbling and powerful. I can’t wait for the celebrations to begin.
 
Describe a moment when you were proud of the impact you made on the Company as a BERG (Business Employee Resource Group) leader or member.
 
I co-founded and tri-lead Salaam (The Walt Disney Company Muslim BERG). It has been one of my greatest joys. Highlighting Muslim joy, shifting narratives around our existence in the media, and building community within the company has become a passion project of mine. Building-out the Think Tank (the consulting sub-committee of the BERG) and seeing projects flood in from across the organization proves how necessary our work is and how it’s our turn to take back our stories and reflect them authentically to the world.
 
What does a reimagined tomorrow look like for you?
 
A reimagined tomorrow is a world where our humanity is prioritized, in and outside of the workplace.

Employee Spotlight: Saima Faheem

National Geographic’s Upcoming Limited Series “A Small Light,” Based on the Inspiring True Story of Miep Gies, Premieres Monday, May 1 on National Geographic and will Stream on Disney+ and HULU. New episodes air every Monday at 9/8c and stream on Disney+ and HULU.

A Small Light | Official Trailer | National Geographic

Marya leads Representation and Inclusion (DEI) for The Walt Disney Studios. She is also the executive Sponsor of Salaam, Disney’s enterprise-wide Muslim BERG.
 
What are you most looking forward to during Ramadan Celebration Month?
 
As a Muslim woman, I celebrate both Ramadan Celebration Month and Women’s History Month. I think it’s meaningful to learn about each other, celebrate one another, and understand how our unique backgrounds blend into a beautiful human tapestry – at Disney, one that evokes wonder and joy.
 
Describe a moment when you were proud of the impact you made on the Company as a BERG (Business Employee Resource Group) leader or member.
 
As the executive sponsor of Salaam, I have had conversations with numerous Muslim cast members who were afraid to publicly identify because they were worried that it would negatively impact their careers. Many have felt isolated and a lack of support. Salaam has provided a space for community, belonging, and celebration.
 
What does a reimagined tomorrow look like for you?
 
I believe the power of stories help shape our future towards optimism and hope.

Employee Spotlight: Marya Bangee

Ross is an Executive Search Consultant. He seeks out executives that will help shape and drive the future of The Walt Disney Company.
 
What are you most looking forward to during Ramadan Celebration Month?
 
I’m looking forward to being able to share Ramadan Celebrations across the company and proudly display my Muslim Identity.
 
Describe a moment when you were proud of the impact you made on the Company as a BERG(Business Employee Resource Group) leader or member.
 
When I saw the Reimagine Tomorrow Ramadan Celebration motion graphic for the first time was surreal. It made me proud of the impact The Walt Disney Company is doing to celebrate Ramadan and Eid with us.
 
What does a reimagined tomorrow look like for you?
 
A reimagined tomorrow highlights all the unique pieces of fabric that make up this quilt we are all an intricate part of.

Employee Spotlight: Ross Masood

Follow a day in the life of an astronomer searching for planets beyond our solar system as she explains how she observes Ramadan and celebrates her family’s traditions. Astronomer, astrophysicist, and National Geographic Explorer Munazza Alam is the daughter of a Pakistani father and Indian mother, and a postdoctoral researcher at the Carnegie Earth &amp; Planets Laboratory in Washington, DC, focusing on exoplanets. She also shares insights from cohosting Nat Geo’s How We Explore podcast, which introduces kids to the work of National Geographic Explorers around the world.

Exploring Ramadan and Earthlike exoplanets | Podcast | Overheard

The following report highlights the programming of ABC’s “GMA3: What You Need to Know” during the week of May 8-12. “GMA3: What You Need to Know” is a one-hour news program that airs weekdays at 1:00 p.m. EDT | 12:00 p.m. CDT on ABC, and 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. EDT on ABC News Live.
 
Highlights of the week include the following:
 
Monday, May 8 — Food pantry trends with ABC News correspondent Alex Presha; “GMA3” helps Bryan Tsiliacos, on a mission to do 30 big acts of kindness by 30
 
Tuesday, May 9 — U.S. Senator and author Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) (“The Joy of Politics”); chef Michael Solomonov with a cooking demo to celebrate Jewish Heritage Month; game show host Ken Jennings (“Jeopardy! Masters”)
 
Wednesday, May 10 — California Democratic gubernatorial candidate Eleni Kounalakis; TV host Tamron Hall interviews musicians Salt-N-Pepa; Deals and Steals with ABC e-commerce editor Tory Johnson
 
Thursday, May 11 — Actress and mental health advocate Malin Akerman; “GMA3” Menopause Manual Series; a performance by musician Moby
 
Friday, May 12 — First Lady of Iceland Eliza Reid; a family who took their children on a visual memory world tour after inevitable blindness diagnosis; Faith Friday with author and podcast host Rachael Adams (“A Little Goes a Long Way”); comedian and actor Bert Kreischer (“The Machine”)

Highlights for ABC News’ "GMA3: What You Need to Know," May 8–12

SportsCenter anchor Arda Öcal relishes his hockey hosting duties on ESPN platforms, including anchoring the The Point on Thursday (6:30 p.m. ET, ESPN2, ESPN+) before ESPN’s NHL doubleheader that night.
 
He also will be in the midst of observing Ramadan, the month-long Islamic religious holiday. Fasting during daylight hours is among the ways Muslims aim to grow spiritually during the observance, which this year is celebrated March 22–April 21.
 
“When I’m fasting, I’m a ‘hangry’ curmudgeon. That’s only half-true,” Öcal said. “It’s definitely tough, but I enjoy the challenge.”
 
The Walt Disney Company announced <a href="https://reimaginetomorrow.disney.com/news-highlights#news-highlights/ramadan-celebration-month" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">“Ramadan Celebration Month” at Disney</a>, “shining a light on Muslim employees, consumers, and fans around the world.”
 
Öcal said the Disney celebration “feels like a validation and recognition for all Muslims across the company – to be able to help break stereotypes and misconceptions through storytelling and conversation. It’s truly wonderful to see; it’s important and necessary.”
 
As Öcal recently told <a href="https://sites.disney.com/lifeatdisney/employee-stories/2023/03/01/goal-oriented-arda-ocal-sportscenter-anchor-and-nhl-studio-host/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Life At Disney</a>, “I am one of three Muslim SportsCenter anchors in history.”
 
That distinction resonates with fans, the Toronto native of Turkish descent said.
 
“I can’t tell you how many messages I’ve received from people of Turkish descent, Muslims or people from my part of the world that have messaged me that they are inspired or proud by seeing that on ESPN,” he told Life At Disney. “It seems small, but it’s very big to me and that corner of the world because we never had anything like that for a very long time.”
 
In the video above, Öcal discusses the meaning of Ramadan to him, the importance of recognizing Muslim athletes and more. He also answered some questions from Front Row below.
 
What do you think people should know about the observance?
 
It’s very challenging but rewarding. During daylight hours, no food or drink – in my opinion, not having water or coffee from sunrise to sunset is the toughest part – most people that fast will wake up just before sunrise to eat a meal. It’s also an opportunity to give up indulgences, much like Lent – social media, spending, sweets, all ways to bring you closer to your faith and to strengthen bonds with your faith and family.
 
How do you balance your ESPN duties with your observance?
 
Embrace the pain, as they say. If a show or a game I’m hosting bleeds into sunset, I’ll definitely have a snack and a bottle of water ready! Maybe I’m right at the tail end of a fast before a commercial break, and then it is sunset, and I chug some H20 and a protein bar. Then all of a sudden, I’m ready to run through a brick wall. Someone, please tweet me if you notice that!

ESPN’s Arda Öcal Reflects On Ramadan

Most people have heard the name Anne Frank, and many have read her diary, which details her and her family’s time spent in hiding during the German occupation of Amsterdam in World War II. Less known are Miep and Jan Gies, two people who helped shelter the Frank family and preserved Anne Frank’s diary after she was captured. In this episode, Alison Leslie Gold, who co-authored Miep’s memoir, shares their history and what we can take away from their stories. And we’ll hear from the co-creators and star of the National Geographic limited series A Small Light about how anyone can step up and be a hero.
 
Photo caption: Miep Gies (right) and her husband Jan return to the house where the Frank family hid. When Gies visited the “secret annex” housing the Frank family and four other people, she recalled, “They would silently look up to me, except for Anne, who in a cheerful tone used to say, ‘Hello, Miep. And what is the news?’”

How Anne Frank’s Diary Survived | Podcast | Overheard at NatGeo

Mahin is a Director for RISE (Representation, Inclusion Strategies &amp; Engagement) Creative Talent Pathways. She discovers next generation underrepresented filmmakers at The Walt Disney Company and gives them opportunity and resources.
 
What are you most looking forward to during Ramadan Celebration Month?
 
I’m looking forward seeing the company-wide activations Disney has deployed to celebrate Ramadan. It brings tears to my eyes. This is the first time the company will celebrate Ramadan in its 100-year history, and it makes me proud to work here and be a part of this company.
 
Describe a moment when you were proud of the impact you made on the Company as a BERG (Business Employee Resource Group) leader or member.
 
To have the company officially recognize Ramadan as part of their Heritage Months, in our case Celebration Month, is what we’ve been working to since we started. It’s a very historic moment.
 
What does a reimagined tomorrow look like for you?
 
A reimagined tomorrow is a world where there is no such thing as a marginalized community.

Employee Spotlight: Mahin Ibrahim

Danielle is a Senior Manager of Creative Advertising for the transactional lines of business. She is responsible for producing audio and visual materials for films being released within the Digital window, and on Blu-ray and DVD.
 
What are you most looking forward to during Women’s History Month?
 
Women’s History Month provides an opportunity for the world to learn about powerful female leaders, both within, and outside of The Walt Disney Company. Highlighting stories of women who have overcome adversity gives strength to those who feel unseen and unheard. I look forward to learning more about those who have set the table for all women to become strong leaders, who will take a seat at that same table for years to come.
 
Describe a moment when you were proud of the impact you made on the Company as a BERG (Business Employee Resource Group) leader or member.
 
In September of 2022, I created a team of approximately 40 Shalom BERG members who participated in a fundraiser and 5K and 10K race for the nonprofit organization, Sharsheret, which supports women and men with genetic cancer-causing mutations. We were the second-place team raising approximately $3,000 for the organization. It was Shalom’s first in-person event, and it was extremely uplifting to bring our BERG members together to do something positive for the community.
 
What does a reimagined tomorrow look like for you?
 
A reimagine tomorrow looks like an atmosphere of acceptance, kindness, and caring for mother earth and its people.

Employee Spotlight: Danielle Pullman

Arda is an anchor with ESPN hosting SportsCenter and NHL on ESPN game broadcasts and shows, among many other on-air roles.
 
What are you most looking forward to during Ramadan Celebration Month?
 
The fact that Ramadan Celebration Month is happening is a dream come true. Honestly, I never thought that a positive spotlight on Muslims would be something that would ever be entertained, let alone highlighted. For the company I work for, one of the most respected brands in the world, to embrace this and include it on the calendar of things to showcase and celebrate is both meaningful and important.
 
Describe a moment when you were proud of the impact you made on the Company as a BERG (Business Employee Resource Group) leader or member.
 
Last year I personally went to as many executives, stakeholders and BERG leaders to try and either create Ramadan content, get it recognized in some capacity and just generally be a positive light and voice for Muslim people. This is a driving force for me and something I care about deeply. To my delight I was met with a lot of support and year two is certainly a giant step from year one, which is wonderful to see.
 
What does a reimagined tomorrow look like for you?
 
A reimagined tomorrow is where all faiths, backgrounds, genders, beliefs are celebrated.

Employee Spotlight: Arda Öcal

As a senior talent audit analyst, Naoshad reviews and contest claims made by music performers and song creators regarding their royalty payments. He works closely with Disney Music Group to make sure they’ve accounted accurately and fairly to our world class musical talent.
 
What are you most looking forward to during Ramadan Celebration Month?
 
I’m elated to simply see Ramadan included as a heritage month for the first time. The company-wide effort to spread awareness and celebrate it is inspiring. Every single person we’ve met across DCCR, the corporate DEI and creative marketing teams, and countless individuals who’ve worked towards making our ideas a reality has really touched my heart. Their efforts are integral in fostering a space for inclusion.
 
Describe a moment when you were proud of the impact you made on the Company as a BERG (Business Employee Resource Group) leader or member.
 
My proudest moment as a BERG leader was last year, consulting with The Walt Disney’s Company creative marketing team on a beautiful Eid Mubarak graphic used for Walt Disney World’s social media. Seeing the reactions from my family and friends, and the comments beneath the posts were so gratifying. I’ve grown up around images of Mickey and Minnie and helping to fuse a vision of them into a part of my identity which I didn’t see represented as a child was truly a full circle moment.
 
What does a reimagined tomorrow look like for you?
 
A reimagined tomorrow is where future generations will never shy away from any opportunity to be their authentic selves.

Employee Spotlight: Naoshad Siddique

Miep Gies once said, “Even an ordinary secretary or a housewife or a teenager can turn on a small light in a dark room.”
 
National Geographic’s new limited series A Small Light, premiering Monday, May 1, shares the incredible story of Miep Gies, who like countless others risked everything to help those targeted by the Nazis during World War II, casting a small light in the darkest of times.
 
Miep, portrayed by Bel Powley, was a carefree and opinionated young woman when her boss Otto Frank (Liev Schreiber) asked her to help hide his family from the Nazis. Without hesitation, Miep agreed. For the next two years, she and her daring and devoted husband, Jan (Joe Cole), along with several other ordinary heroes, watched over the Frank, van Pels, and Pfeffer families hiding in the secret annex above Otto’s business in Amsterdam.
 
“I found the character of Miep to be incredibly relatable as a young woman,” says Powley. “She was a normal girl, who loved dancing, going out with her friends, and talking about how handsome she found her husband. She was a frivolous, fiercely independent young woman, before she found herself in extreme circumstances.”
 
Told with a modern sensibility, A Small Light differs from other historical narratives by depicting life’s more “ordinary” moments amidst tragedy. Audiences will witness Miep and Jan’s marriage as well as her relationships with her friends and family. “They’re people who have rich emotional experiences… that aren’t just about the highest-stakes things that are happening, but about their relationships with each other,” says Susanna Fogel, who serves as an executive producer and director.
 
“Miep is a person who makes jokes, and then she’s put in this incredibly serious situation,” she says. “But there’s still room for her to connect to the world in a way that feels contemporary in that she’s not relating in a self‑serious historical dry way. She’s someone you can relate to and see yourself in.”
 
Schreiber shares, “What I thought Bel and Joe did so beautifully was the human pieces, the things that are fun to watch [like their married life]. The person who is kind of flaky actually ends up keeping the Franks alive for two years, and we see that relationship [develop] over the years.”
 
A project nearly six years in the making, creators, showrunners, writers, and executive producers Joan Rater and Tony Phalen delved into every piece of information they could find on the Franks and Miep and Jan Gies. Their quest even led them to enlist the services of a Dutch researcher and translator to comb through Miep’s many interviews over the years. Rater and Phalen also dug into the history of the Dutch resistance to accurately capture life outside the annex.
 
Miep’s unwavering courage led Rater and Phalen to investigate the “why” behind helping friends and strangers alike. “She right away said ‘yes’ and kept saying ‘yes’ every day for two years,” says Rater. “We wanted to pose the question, ‘What would you do?’
 
“There are a lot of things that we explore in the series,” she continues, “[Miep] was an immigrant, and she understood what it was like to be an immigrant in Amsterdam—that’s why she bonded so deeply and instantly with Otto.”
 
A Small Light was filmed on location in both Amsterdam and Prague. Because the annex itself is now a museum—the Anne Frank House— the production design team was tasked with rebuilding the location on a soundstage in Prague. “Our production designer was maniacal in his desire for it to be exact,” recalls Phelan. “We made it a little tiny bit bigger for the ease of the cameras, but for the most part, it was pretty accurate for both the annex and the Opekta office.”
 
To capture exterior shots of the Opekta building, and its surrounding area, the crew found a building on the canal that resembled the building circa the 1940s. However, little CGI was needed to replicate Amsterdam during the occupation.
 
“The other thing we were very conscious of is that during this time in Amsterdam people saw themselves as living in the modern world, in the 20th century, with vacuum cleaners, mixers, appliances, and all of that,” he continues. “This was not that long ago—the apartments that they lived in and the places that they spent their lives are very similar to ours.”
 
A Small Light also stars Amira Casar as Edith Frank, Billie Boullet as Anne Frank, Ashley Brooke as Margot Frank, Andy Nyman as Hermann van Pels, Caroline Catz as Auguste van Pels, Rudi Goodman as Peter van Pels, and Noah Taylor as Dr. Fritz Pfeffer. Eleanor Tomlinson, Sally Messham, Ian McElhinney, Nicholas Burns, Liza Sadovy, Laurie Kynaston, and Sebastian Armesto round out the cast.
 
The series will launch with simultaneous broadcast of the first two episodes on National Geographic and Nat Geo WILD. The first episode will have an encore airing Saturday, May 6, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Freeform. Two episodes will premiere every Monday at 9 p.m. ET/PT on National Geographic and will be available the next day on Disney+, Hulu, and on the Nat Geo TV and ABC apps.

"A Small Light" Illuminates an Everyday Hero's Remarkable Story

It’s an ending no fan was expecting! On sale May 31, the highly-anticipated <a href="https://www.marvel.com/comics/issue/102194/the_amazing_spider-man_2022_26" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #26</a> will see <a href="https://www.marvel.com/characters/ms-marvel-kamala-khan" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ms. Marvel</a> make a heroic sacrifice in the ultimate Marvel Comics manner.
 
As an <a href="https://www.marvel.com/teams-and-groups/oscorp" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Oscorp</a> intern, Kamala Khan has been a pivotal supporting character in <a href="https://www.marvel.com/comics/creators/10409/zeb_wells" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Zeb Wells</a> and <a href="https://www.marvel.com/comics/creators/13196/john_romita_jr." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">John Romita Jr.</a>’s run of <a href="https://www.marvel.com/comics/series/32866/the_amazing_spider-man_2022_-_present" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AMAZING SPIDER-MAN</a>, and it’s all been leading to this monumental moment for Kamala to save the entire Marvel Universe!
 
Officially revealed by <a target="_blank" href="https://ew.com/books/ms-marvel-kamala-khan-will-die-in-marvel-comic/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Entertainment Weekly</a>, the character’s everlasting legacy and this storyline will continue in July with a special one-shot, FALLEN FRIEND: THE DEATH OF MS. MARVEL, an essential issue crafted by an all-star lineup of talent including the return of the character’s co-creator, <a href="https://www.marvel.com/comics/creators/10329/g._willow_wilson" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">G. Willow Wilson</a>; the writer of <a href="https://www.marvel.com/comics/series/27133/magnificent_ms_marvel_2019" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ms. Marvel’s last solo series</a>, <a href="https://www.marvel.com/comics/creators/13081/saladin_ahmed" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Saladin Ahmed</a>; and <a href="https://www.marvel.com/comics/creators/119/mark_waid" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mark Waid</a>, who not only brought Ms. Marvel onto the <a href="https://www.marvel.com/teams-and-groups/avengers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Avengers</a>, but also wrote her central role in the teen team book <a href="https://www.marvel.com/comics/series/22552/champions_2016_-_2019" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CHAMPIONS</a>.
 
In the grand comics condition of other notable character deaths such as <a href="https://www.marvel.com/characters/captain-america-steve-rogers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Captain America</a>, <a href="https://www.marvel.com/characters/doctor-strange-stephen-strange" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Doctor Strange</a>, and the original <a href="https://www.marvel.com/characters/captain-marvel-mar-vell" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Captain Marvel</a>, FALLEN FRIEND: THE DEATH OF MS. MARVEL will be a crucial chapter in the Marvel mythos and serve as both a farewell for Ms. Marvel and a glimpse of her death’s impact on all of Marvel’s heroes.
 
The heart of the Marvel Universe has stopped beating. Now join the other heroes of the Marvel Universe, the creators of Ms. Marvel, and comic fans everywhere in honoring and remembering one of Marvel’s brightest stars!

The Marvel Universe Mourns One of Its Brightest Stars

Jewish American Heritage Month is an annual recognition and celebration of American Jewish achievements and contributions to the United States. This May at Disney, we’re highlighting Jewish employees, consumers, and fans around the world.
 
We’re Celebrating Jewish Stories through the power of our unparalleled storytelling, iconic brands, creative minds, and innovative technologies.
 
“I hope the recognition and celebration of the month will inspire folks to tell more Jewish stories and learn about our diverse culture,” shared Jordan Kestenbaum, learning facilitator and delivery manager at Walt Disney Parks and Resorts and co-founder of Disney’s SHALOM Business Employee Resource Group (BERG). “I am really looking forward to the impact this month will have on employees and consumers of the enterprise beyond May 31.”
 
“It’s my hope that we educate and inspire employees across Disney with amazing speakers, memorable activations,” added Jeremy Cohen, director of visual communications at The Walt Disney Company and co-founder of SHALOM. “I can’t wait to showcase the incredible contributions made by Disney’s Jewish community within our walls and beyond.”
 
At Disney, we continue to innovate and create content that is inspiring, authentic, and inclusive. There are numerous ways to celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month throughout May and beyond:
• All month long, <a href="https://www.disneychannel.ca/">Disney Channel</a> will celebrate the dimensions of Jewish heritage from key series like <a href="https://disneynow.com/shows/marvels-moon-girl-and-devil-dinosaur">Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur</a>, <a href="https://www.disneychannel.ca/shows/the-ghost-and-molly-mcgee/">The Ghost of Molly McGee</a>, and much more.
• <a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.com/">National Geographic</a> will spotlight the new miniseries, <a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.com/tv/shows/a-small-light">A Small Light</a>.
• <a href="https://www.disneyplus.com/">Disney+</a> will highlight films including <a href="https://www.disneyplus.com/movies/full-court-miracle/5UK8LYhcH5jg">Full-Court Miracle</a>, A Small Light, and <a href="https://www.disneyplus.com/movies/miracle-at-midnight/3piiWJOC6C1T">Miracle at Midnight</a>.
• <a href="https://disneynow.com/">DisneyNOW</a> will showcase <a href="https://disneynow.com/shows/marvels-moon-girl-and-devil-dinosaur">Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur</a>, <a href="https://disneynow.com/shows/the-ghost-and-molly-mcgee">The Ghost of Molly McGee</a>, <a href="https://disneynow.com/shows/puppy-dog-pals">Puppy Dogs Pals</a>, <a href="https://disneynow.com/shows/ravens-home">Raven’s Home</a>, and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gbxyZAduGvY">“Puppy For Hanukkah”</a> music video.
• Learn more about the stories of talented employees across Disney and its iconic brands through features and stories on your favorite branded social media channels.
 
We are all greater than a single story and we all deserve to feel seen, heard and understood, not only during heritage months, but year-round.
 
More surprises from your favorite Disney brands will be shared throughout the month, and be sure to follow @ReimagineTomorrow on <a href="https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FReimagineTomorrow-108752528089585&amp;data=04%7C01%7CShelby.D.Curry%40disney.com%7C0f141904a8204ec4079408d994abea29%7C56b731a8a2ac4c32bf6b616810e913c6%7C1%7C0%7C637704288345560833%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=S0O46Wv0SbjULVYGnoQ0UGbZS3OJMYh3x0IFmYz5%2BZE%3D&amp;reserved=0">Facebook</a>, <a href="http://www.instagram.com/ReimagineTomorrow">Instagram</a>, and <a href="https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2Freimaginetmrw&amp;data=04%7C01%7CShelby.D.Curry%40disney.com%7C0f141904a8204ec4079408d994abea29%7C56b731a8a2ac4c32bf6b616810e913c6%7C1%7C0%7C637704288345570786%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=ITXdBkceklvJrde2qW1sqTHYVU4LGaE5QBTdr4T%2FzHY%3D&amp;reserved=0">Twitter</a> to share ways you plan to celebrate the month.

Celebrating Jewish Stories at Disney

From global superstars to intergalactic adventures, Disney+ has something for everyone in May. Coming up first on Wednesday, May 3, is the four-part series Ed Sheeran: The Sum of It All, which offers a definitive and searingly honest view into Ed Sheeran’s private life as he explores the universal themes that inspire his music. Watch him tackle various experiences and reflect upon the world, himself, and his new music.
 
Celebrate Star Wars Day on Thursday, May 4, with the premiere of Star Wars: Visions (Volume 2), featuring nine shorts from nine studios. Employing the most captivating animation styles from a variety of countries and cultures, the second volume offers a dynamic new perspective on the storied mythos of Star Wars. That same day, stream Season of 1 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. Set 200 years before The Phantom Menace, during the High Republic era, the animated series follows Jedi younglings Kai, Lys, and Nubs as they are sent by Master Yoda to train at a Jedi temple on the beautiful world of Tenoo under the tutelage of Master Zia. Together, they will blast off on adventures across Tenoo and throughout the galaxy aboard the Crimson Firehawk with ace pilot Nash and her droid, RJ-83! They’ll help those in need, clash with villainous pirates, discover exotic creatures, and learn what it takes to be a good friend.
 
On Friday, May 5, live the Entrelazados Live! Experience. The special includes the original songs “Donde Voy” and “Convénceme,” ‘90s covers, and so much more! A few days later, on Wednesday, May 10, The Muppets Mayhem will premiere with all episodes. The comedy series follows The Electric Mayhem Band—Dr. Teeth on vocals and keyboards, Animal on drums, Floyd Pepper on vocals and bass, Janice on vocals and lead guitar, Zoot on saxophone, and Lips on trumpet—on an epic, music-filled journey to record their first-ever studio album. With the help of a driven young music executive, Nora (Lily Singh), watch the old-school Muppet band comes face-to-face with the current day music scene as they try to finally record their first studio album.
 
On Friday, May 12, Disney’s Crater will crash land on Disney+. The movie tells the story of Caleb Channing (Isaiah Russell-Bailey), who was raised on a lunar mining colony and is about to be permanently relocated to an idyllic faraway planet following the death of his father (Scott Mescudi). To fulfill his father’s last wish before he leaves the colony, Caleb and his three best friends, Dylan (Billy Barratt), Borney (Orson Hong), and Marcus (Thomas Boyce)—along with a new arrival from Earth, Addison (Mckenna Grace)—decide to hijack a rover for one final adventure on a journey to explore a mysterious crater.
 
On Wednesday, May 24, stream all episodes of the Disney+ Original series American Born Chinese. Based on Gene Luen Yang’s graphic novel that chronicles the trials and tribulations of a regular American teenager whose life is forever changed when he befriends the son of a mythological god, the series tells the story of a young man’s battle for his own identity... told through family, comedy, and action-packed Kung-Fu! The series stars Ben Wang as Jin Wang, Daniel Wu as Sun Wukong “The Monkey King,” and two Oscar® winners: Ke Huy Quan as Freddy Wong and Michelle Yeoh as Guanyin. That same day, Season 2 of Chip ‘n’ Dale: Park Life will debut on Disney+. In their big city park, Chip and Dale are as eager as ever to increase their acorn stash. But their tumultuous dynamic makes it hard for things to ever go right. Along with Pluto, Donald Duck, and more Disney characters, the chipmunks take on a new chunk of trouble!
 
All the titles coming to Disney+ in May are listed below:
 
Tuesday, May 2 A Small Light (2 Episodes)
 
Wednesday, May 3 Ed Sheeran: The Sum of It All (Premiere) (All Episodes) Eureka! (Season 1, 6 Episodes)
 
Thursday, May 4 Star Wars: Visions (Volume 2 Premiere) (All Episodes) Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures (Season 1 Premiere) (Episodes 1–7)
 
Friday, May 5 Charles: In His Own Words Entrelazados Live! (Premiere)
 
Tuesday, May 9 A Small Light (Season 1, 2 Episodes)
 
Wednesday, May 10 Life Below Zero (Season 20) The Muppets Mayhem (Premiere) (All Episodes) Secrets of the Zoo: Tampa (Season 4)
 
Friday, May 12 Crater (Premiere)
 
Tuesday, May 16 A Small Light (Season 1, 2 Episodes)
 
Wednesday, May 17 Critter Fixers: Country Vets (Season 5) Saturdays (Season 1, 4 Episodes)
 
Tuesday, May 23 A Small Light (Season 1, 2 Episodes)
 
Wednesday, May 24 American Born Chinese (Premiere) (All Episodes) Chip ‘n’ Dale: Park Life (Season 2 Premiere) (Episodes 1–6) Kiff (Season 1, 4 Episodes) Spidey and his Amazing Friends (Season 2, 5 Episodes)
 
Friday, May 26 Wild Life
 
Wednesday, May 31 Firebuds (Season 1, 6 Episodes)

Everything New You Can Stream on Disney+ in May 2023

Disney+ released photos from an Emmy® FYC event in Los Angeles today for Marvel Studios’ award-winning series, “Ms. Marvel.” Star Iman Vellani was joined by executive producer Sana Amanat, composer Laura Karpman and costume designer Arjun Bhasin at the event, which included a screening of Episode 1 of the fan-favorite series, followed by a Q&amp;A, moderated by Piya Sinha-Roy, Senior Creative Writer, Hulu.
 
Marvel Studios’ “Ms. Marvel” introduces Kamala Khan, a Muslim American teenager growing up in Jersey City. An avid gamer and a voracious fan-fiction scribe, Kamala is a Super Hero megafan with an oversized imagination—particularly when it comes to Captain Marvel. Yet Kamala feels like she doesn’t fit in at school and sometimes even at home—that is, until she gets superpowers like the heroes she’s always looked up to. Life gets better with superpowers, right?
 
The series stars Iman Vellani, Matt Lintz, Yasmeen Fletcher, Zenobia Shroff, Mohan Kapur, Saagar Shaikh, Rish Shah, Fawad Khan, Laurel Marsden, Arian Moayed, Adaku Ononogbo, Alysia Reiner, Azhar Usman, Laith Nakli, Nimra Bucha and Travina Springer, with Aramis Knight.
 
Directors for the series are Adil &amp; Bilall (Adil El Arbi &amp; Bilall Fallah) [Episodes 101 and 106], Meera Menon [Episodes 102 and 103] and Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy [Episodes 104 and 105]. Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Brad Winderbaum, Adil &amp; Bilall, Bisha K. Ali and Sana Amanat are the executive producers. Bisha K. Ali is also the head writer.
 
Marvel Studios’ “Ms. Marvel” debuted on June 8, 2022, and all episodes are now streaming exclusively on Disney+.

Photos from Marvel Studios' "Ms. Marvel" Emmy FYC Event

Amina is a senior manager for social media and synergy partnership marketing for Freeform where she oversees and mentors the team that leads the social strategy on behalf of Freeform. She also spearheads all the internal partnership synergy strategy on behalf of the network including planning, idea generation, budget, and content development for on-air, social, digital, website, and out-of-home tactics across all the heavily matrixed Disney businesses.
 
What are you most looking forward to during Ramadan Celebration Month? 
 
I am most looking forward to Ramadan. Personally, Ramadan is more than a month. It’s a reset button, a time for self-reflection and contemplation. For me, it’s like the start of a new year. I reflect on the months gone by and make goals for the coming year. It is a time to practice patience and re-learn self-sacrifice. It gives me an opportunity to empathize with and help the less fortunate. It helps me remember our human goodness and generosity.
 
Describe a moment when you were proud of the impact you made on the Company as aBERG (Business Employee Resource Group) leader or member.
 
Seeing the month of Ramadan recognized as a The Walt Disney Company priority for heritage months after fighting for it as a marketing and communications lead on the leadership board for my BERG, Salaam: Muslims at Disney for many years was incredible. Also, seeing the logo I designed for the BERG presented across the official company sites and documents was insanely cool!
 
What does a reimagined tomorrow look like for you?
 
A reimagined tomorrow is a world where everyone is seen, celebrated, and valued.

Employee Spotlight: Amina Ahmad

This week Muslim cast came together to celebrate Ramadan in person. Ramadan is the Islamic holy month and is a special time for Muslims. During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset for 29-30 days. This is a time of prayer, reflection and community for Muslims.
 
When Muslims break their fast at the end of the day, it is called an iftar. For the first time, Orlando-based Muslim cast gathered together at a Disney iftar to build community, celebrate and network with one another.
 
During the iftar, cast gathered in prayer and shared a traditional halal meal after the sunset. 
 
For Mohamad Abbasi, EPCOT merchandise sales, the evening helped him feel supported during Ramadan. “A big part of what I’d been missing this Ramadan was the traditional iftars of my community back home and the family dinners I’ve always loved during Ramadan. This iftar gave that to me and in such a special way. At this midway point in Ramadan, seeing the inclusivity supported by Disney really helped to give me the extra strength to get through the rest of the month.”
 
Mohamad and others shared their tradition with fellow cast “This iftar was extra special for me as it gave me a chance to share a traditional iftar with my partner, Mary Kate, as well. As a fellow EPCOT cast member, she was able to join the event and see what our prayer looked like as well as try some of our traditional food and see what a classic iftar is like. It was so special for me to be able to share this with her.”

Celebrating Ramadan with Orlando Disney Cast

Oliver Ferber stood still. In front of him, everyone was moving: His classmates, his running partners, his teammates -- they were all striding and sprinting and pushing themselves through the biggest race of the year on this Saturday morning in November 2021. On any other day, Oliver thought, I'd be among them -- maybe even in front of them. On this day, though, he only watched.
 
Oliver wasn't injured. He had chosen to stand on the sidelines of Maryland's cross country state championship meet. He had chosen to be wearing khakis and a green sweater instead of the track singlet. He had chosen to be on the outside peering in, staring as his team raced down the final stretch toward the finish line because it was, in his heart, what he thought he had to do.
 
He still felt the ache of being alone.
 
It wasn't about the running, really. It wasn't about sports at all. It was about faith and conviction and belief. It was about the weight that comes with confronting one of the hardest questions a person can face: What do you do when everyone you trust is telling you to do one thing, but you're pretty sure you're supposed to do the exact opposite?
 
ABOUT TWO MONTHS earlier, Oliver, then 16 and a junior, went on a training run with a few of his teammates from the Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School in Rockville, Maryland. As they eased into their pace, Oliver told the others they might have to run the state championship race without him. When they asked why, he was clear: "Shabbat," he said.
 
Shabbat is the Hebrew word for the Sabbath, the holiest day of the week for Jews. It lasts from sundown Friday to nightfall on Saturday, and it is supposed to be a day of sanctity and simplicity and rest. 
 
What that actually looks like in practice differs broadly depending on the person. Some students at Oliver's school might celebrate Shabbat with little more than a family dinner on Friday evening, while others might choose to disconnect from their lives completely, avoiding driving or using any electronic devices, say, and spending time only with relatives or at synagogue until Shabbat ends.
 
Oliver was raised in a family whose religious observance was more cultural than ritualized. They often lit Shabbat candles on Friday night, but "Saturday morning was sports, whatever they wanted to do and they were always busy," said Oliver's mother, Karyn. Oliver's dad, Scott, said, "Shabbat was not anything different than the other days."
 
That changed for Oliver in 2020. During the early days of the pandemic, Oliver found himself gravitating more and more toward his Judaism. He began praying more. He began connecting with other Jews who were more observant through youth groups. He began taking a stricter approach to the holiness of Shabbat.
 
"None of it felt especially hard to me," he said. "It's what I believed in, and I felt like the other things I was doing was hypocrisy. To some extent, I felt I was maybe living a lie."
 
Oliver had shown interest in being more observant than the rest of the family over the years, his parents said. On the day Oliver's sister became a Bat Mitzvah, Scott recalled, Oliver insisted he wanted to walk to synagogue -- 3.5 miles away -- instead of riding in the car.
 
"He always dabbled in it," Karyn said. "So we thought it was a phase." She laughed. "You know, there's worse things that kids get into."
 
Oliver acknowledged that his new commitment to Jewish ritual might have felt sudden, but he likened it to running: "I started off sprinting and then I just didn't stop."
 
While Oliver's loved ones might have been a little confused by his change in religious rigor, they largely accommodated him: His mother prepared Friday meals ahead of time, then used special warmers to heat the food because cooking is prohibited on the Sabbath. His friends made weekend plans with him before sundown because he would turn off his phone once Shabbat began. When the family wanted to go to the beach for the weekend in the summer, they had to leave early on Friday afternoons instead of later in the evening, after gridlock subsided, like they always used to do.
 
Once, Oliver and his dad were at the airport on a Friday waiting for a flight to Providence, Rhode Island, so Oliver could visit Brown University. The flight was supposed to land a little after 4 p.m., in plenty of time for the Ferbers to take a taxi to their hotel before sunset at 6 p.m., when Shabbat would begin.
 
But the flight was delayed. Estimated arrival went to 4:45 p.m. Then 5:10 p.m. Then 5:30 p.m. Scott looked at Oliver and knew. They picked up their suitcases and went home.
 
"I think he wasn't probably as aware of his individual choice and its implications on others around him," Scott said. "And I think the experience with cross country was actually what educated him to the fact that, 'My individual decisions sometimes have consequences beyond myself.'"
 
By the time the 2021 season approached, Oliver couldn't stop thinking about the state championship race -- which had always been held on a Saturday morning -- as an issue of morality.
 
When Oliver told his teammates on that training run what he was thinking about doing, he saw shock and hurt in their faces. He saw anger.
 
"It wasn't like I was saying, 'Oh, I'm not going to be at practice tomorrow,'" he said. "It was like, 'I'm not going to be at the race of the season.' ... And obviously they didn't want that to happen."
 
TO BE CLEAR: Nowhere in the five books and nearly 6,000 verses of the Torah does it say, "Thou shalt not try to win a high school state championship on the Sabbath." Jewish law, or halakha, is rarely that simple.
 
Oliver's situation, as is often the case when applying an ancient text to modern life, centered on interpretation. And Oliver's interpretation that running a grueling distance race could violate the idea that Jews are supposed to focus only on experiencing the most basic pleasures on Shabbat was hardly without precedent. In the 1600s, the great Polish thinker, Rabbi David Halevi Segal, wrote that while "it is certainly possible to derive pleasure as a result of exercise ... it is forbidden because while running, [one] does not enjoy the experience, and it is not permitted on the basis of the pleasure [one] experiences afterwards."
 
In other words, as Oliver put it, "The joy and pleasure of winning a state championship wouldn't change the fact that running hard is difficult and painful."
 
But many other scholars and institutions (including the Jewish Day School itself) saw participating in sports as acceptable. Jason Belinkie, who has been the cross country coach at JDS for 15 years, had helped other runners navigate Shabbat-related logistical issues in the past, but he had never encountered a student who had an issue with racing itself.
 
"I did not understand where Oliver was coming from," Belinkie said. "It was difficult because I didn't want to offend him. But I was also honest with him that he's a critical part of our team. And that we weren't sure how we were going to do it if he was not part of our team at the state championship."
 
Belinkie wasn't the only one confused by Oliver's choice. David Fritz, Oliver's cousin and teammate, was aware of Oliver's religious progression; he even recalled a day when the two attended a Washington Nationals game and were considering moving down to better seats in the later innings. "Oliver, you want to seat jump?" David asked, and Oliver replied, "Well, I need to think about the halachic arguments for if this is an ethical thing to do."
 
But David never considered the possibility that Oliver wouldn't race. The JDS team was strong in 2021, a group with a real chance to win a title. "You're about to throw this all away for all of us?" David remembered thinking. "I felt so hurt that he was going to sit this out," he said.
 
The pressure Oliver felt came from all sides. His teammates formed a new group chat without him -- for the "state racers" -- and when Oliver suggested he'd still come to the race support the others, one of his friends told him, perhaps only half-jokingly, "If you're not going to race, don't show up. No one wants to see your face."
 
Belinkie, who talked about the issue countless times with Oliver, wanted to be clear just how much Oliver meant to the team's success. So, in one meeting, Belinkie compared all the JDS runners' times to those of their biggest rival, demonstrating -- with raw numbers -- how Oliver's absence would almost certainly ruin the team's chance to win.
 
Afterward, Oliver said, he went to his car but found he couldn't make himself put the engine into gear. "I just put the windows down -- I like it when the windows are down," he said. "I just sat there." Then he burst into tears.
 
At home, it was difficult, too. Oliver's mother told him he owed it to his teammates to run; that her family who lived in Israel said it was OK for him to run; that the officials at JDS were good with him running.
 
"I cared because he was letting the team down, the school down, my family down," Karyn said. "It's a Jewish school that can win a state championship -- I'm like, 'Do it for the Jewish people. You need to run.'"
 
Oliver soaked up all of it, internalized all of it, agonized over all of it. "There was a lot of yelling and getting mad at each other," he said. "My teammates, my coach, the school, my mom ..." He trailed off. "Everyone was telling me to race. It put a lot of pressure on me."
 
Oliver cried, more than once. He changed his mind, more than once. According to Belinkie, even the rabbi Oliver was consulting with indicated at one point that running could potentially be a defensible choice. "He had the whole world against him in that situation," the coach said.
 
It didn't matter. Oliver couldn't shake the feeling that he knew what was right.
 
"You're not allowed to do really intense exercise you don't really enjoy," he said matter-of-factly. "And when you're running up the hill, every step requires effort. And it's hard and it hurts. And if you're doing that and like, 'Oh, this is fun,' then you're not racing the right way."
 
He shrugged. "I wanted to live my values," he said.
 
ON THE DAY of the race, Oliver walked to the course from his grandparents' house, where he'd stayed the night before because it was close. It was cold, so he wore a Baltimore Orioles winter cap along with his Shabbat clothes.
 
Oliver had never watched a cross country race before. The act of running, he said, is such an individual pursuit -- the focus is always inward -- that he wasn't sure what it would be like to stand up high on the hill and look down as all the runners below him made their way over the course.
 
"It almost felt godly, in some way, because I'm watching the whole thing," Oliver said.
 
He added, "I was praying while it was happening."
 
From his elevated spot, Oliver watched his teammates break from the start. He watched them slog through the center of the course. He watched them run, together, the race of their lives as they surged toward the finish.
 
When Oliver heard the final results, and it was official that JDS had pulled the upset and won a state title by three points, he clapped and smiled as his teammates jumped together in a mosh pit, hugging and shrieking with joy and glee.
 
He didn't leap in with them, didn't throw his arms around everyone's shoulders. He couldn't. They won, he thought. I didn't.
 
He stood to the side, alone.
 
"I had more of a sitting-back happiness, I guess," Oliver said. "They all went to someone's house to celebrate afterwards, and I just walked back to my grandparents' house. It was Shabbat."
 
IN THE DAYS and weeks after the race, Oliver thought occasionally about the next year -- his senior season -- but assumed nothing would be different. He figured he'd compete but the state championship race wasn't an option. It had always been on a Saturday.
 
Oliver's coach, though, was thinking differently. Belinkie had tried over the years to get the race moved off Shabbat but had never gained any traction. Now, he thought, Oliver's experience might make state federation officials look at the situation from a new perspective.
 
So Belinkie asked Oliver if he would write a letter to Greg Dunston, the longtime meet director of the state championship race. And Oliver did.
 
Dear Mr. Dunston ...
 
I'd like to tell you about my experience and my team's experience with states during the 2021 cross country season. ...
 
I could either race at states, which would fall during Shabbat, and violate all of my religious beliefs, or I could observe Shabbat, but potentially deny the opportunity to myself and my teammates of winning a state championship. ...
 
I felt extraordinarily depressed and anxious. Those days were the most stressful ones I've experienced in my life. ...
 
This decision was ... an incredibly difficult and painful decision to make. ...
 
[For] me, and future runners, it would mean the world to be able to both race and keep Shabbat.
 
Thank you very much for your time you've put into this decision.
 
Best,
Oliver Ferber
 
Oliver sent the note with little expectation. The tumult of last season had been his drama, JDS's drama, his mother's drama. He didn't think it would mean anything to anyone else.
 
Only it did. Dunston, the race director, read the letter and it moved him. He had heard Belinkie asking before about a change but was always able to find a reason to keep the meet on Saturdays -- other activities at the host school, maybe, or weekday traffic. It was easy to slough off a coach. But this was a kid.
 
"It made me push a little harder," Dunston said. "When he wrote me that letter, it was a matter of looking at it and saying, 'Well, this boy really wants to run -- let me see what I could do.'
 
"You could tell by his letter that he really wanted to compete and be with his teammates," Dunston continued. "And this was going to be the last time he would get to do it."
 
In mid-June, Oliver and his teammates got word: That fall, the state championship race would be on a Sunday.
 
ON THE MORNING of Nov. 13, 2022, Oliver tightened his shoelaces. He adjusted his shirt. He stepped into the middle of his teammates' circle and led the, "What time is it? RACE TIME" call-and-response. He adjusted his yarmulke and walked to the start line.
 
Everyone tensed up. The gun went off. The runners lurched forward and Oliver kept a steady pace early on, toward the middle of the pack.
 
As he approached the finish line in the final race of his career. Belinkie shouted out, "It's the last straightaway of your career, Oliver -- what are you going to do?" and Oliver straightened his shoulders as his legs thrummed. Off to the side, Karyn and Scott screamed and shouted. When he crossed the finish line, he put his head on Karyn's shoulder and she wrapped her arms around his neck.
 
Oliver and JDS won their state title. The scene from a year earlier played out again -- the jumping together, the whooping, the mosh pit. Except this time Oliver was at the heart of it. He laughed as he and his friends cradled the trophy.
 
"I'm glad I got to race and have my happy ending," Oliver said.
 
For centuries, Jewish sages and scholars have discussed a phrase from very early in the book of Genesis: Lech lecha, the Torah says, meaning, "Go forth." One interpretation is that it is a beseeching, a commanding, for each of us to go forward in search of ourselves. To go on an internal journey. To be sure, more than anything, that we have found our own truth -- however hard that might be -- before we go looking for anyone else's.
 
Oliver found his truth. Amid the chaos of that afternoon, he hugged his mother and his father. He hugged his coach. He hugged his teammates, pulling them close for a picture, the state championship banner draped across their bodies. At one point, Oliver was asked what this day meant for him, and, suddenly, he stopped. He took a deep breath. He went silent for five, 10, 15 seconds, his eyes flitting over all that was going on around him.
 
Then he smiled.
 
"It means I'm independent," he said. "And I choose my own path."

State Championship or His Faith? A Young Jewish Runner's Choice

Ramadan Mubarak! Celebrate with "American Eid," a Disney Launchpad short film about Ameena, a young Muslim Pakistani immigrant celebrating Eid for the first time in America. She embarks on a mission to make Eid a public-school holiday, reconnecting with her older sister in the process. Join writer/director Aqsa Altaf for a behind-the-scenes look at the making of "American Eid."
 
Stream more Disney Launchpad shorts now on Disney+.

American Eid | Full Movie | Disney+

Yousef is a Communications Manager at Disney Signature Experiences. He supports unique businesses of Disney such Disney Cruise Line, Disney Vacation Club, Adventures by Disney, National Geographic Expeditions, Storyliving by Disney, National Geographic Live and Disney Institute. He communicates the stories of their special and diverse Cast and Crew around the world.
 
What are you most looking forward to during Ramadan Celebration Month?
 
I’m looking forward to a spiritual reset and some quality family time during the month of Ramadan.
 
Describe a moment when you were proud of the impact you made on the Company as a BERG(Business Employee Resource Group) leader or member.
 
It is really a point of pride whenever I get to see my religion and culture being celebrated at The Walt Disney Company. I grew up never really seeing representation, so when I saw our programming, and got to consult on materials that had to do with my culture it made me incredibly happy.
 
What does a reimagined tomorrow look like for you?
 
A reimagined tomorrow is where everyone's background and differences are celebrated.

Employee Spotlight: Yousef Kareem

ESPN Films today announced that it is in production on a 30 for 30 documentary, “The Minister of Defense,” that examines the complex and sometimes controversial life of Reggie White, one of the greatest and most faith-driven players in NFL history. Told in part through never-before-seen footage from a 2004 interview filmed two months before his death, the film chronicles both White’s incredible dominance as one of the best defensive players ever and his spiritual journey as an ordained evangelical minister who questioned his blind faith toward the end of his life. Along with interviews with teammates from both the Philadelphia Eagles and Green Bay Packers, the film features Reggie’s son Jeremy who embarks on a journey to understand his father’s life, which ended tragically short at the age of 43. “The Minister of Defense” is a portrait of a man who constantly strived to “do right” but found that sometimes there is no easy answer as to what “right” means.
 
The documentary will be directed by Ken Rodgers (“Bullies of Baltimore,” “The Tuck Rule,” “The Two Bills”) and Courtland Bragg (“Hard Knocks: Training Camp,” “Hard Knocks: In-Season,” “All or Nothing”)
 
Further details will be announced at a later date.

ESPN Announces 30 for 30 Documentary “The Minister of Defense”

Ramadan Mubarak! رمضان مبارك This means “Happy Ramadan” which is a traditional greeting for Muslims who celebrate the holiday. Ramadan is the most cherished time of the year for Muslims around the world. It is a time for reflection, community, service, charity and celebration.
 
Starting March 22nd, observant Muslims will fast from all forms of food and drink from sunrise until sunset for 29 or 30 days (based on the lunar calendar). In addition to fasting from these basic needs, Muslims do their best to avoid bad habits and encourage positive behavior.
 
Munir and Burak are both Muslim crew members who work together in the dining rooms onboard the <a href="https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/why-cruise-disney/wish/?CMP=ILC-DPFY23Q2wo0323230329230003D" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Disney Wish</a>.
 
When reflecting on what Ramadan means to him, Munir shared, “I couldn’t be more proud of working for Disney especially in this season of Ramadan.”
 
Burak added, “When it comes to my religion, people are respecting it. I think this is one of the values of Disney, we are respecting each other.”
 
In celebration of the beginning of Ramadan, hear from Munir and Burak as they tell their unique story of observing the holiday on the high seas.

Disney Crew Celebrates Ramadan at Sea

L’chaim! It’s officially Jewish American Heritage month and to celebrate we have created a watchlist featuring some of Disney’s promising young stars who are also Jewish! From high school drama club to 17th century Salem, these actors are representing the Jewish community with pride and each one is a mensch (the Yiddish word for “a good person”)! Here are shows and movies you can stream this month featuring these young, talented, Jewish stars:
 
Milo Manheim – Prom Pact
Disney’s latest Original Movie, Prom Pact, follows Mandy Yang (Peyton Elizabeth Lee) and her best friend, Ben Plunkett (Manheim), as they navigate the stress and anxiety of getting into college and finding dates to senior prom. Manheim’s character is charming and goofy, solidifying him as one of Disney’s most popular recurring stars, because Prom Pact is far from his first appearance on Disney Channel or Disney+! You can stream Prom Pact now on Disney+, as well as Manheim’s previous projects including ZOMBIES, ZOMBIES 2, ZOMBIES 3, and Doogie Kamealoha, M.D.!
 
Sky Katz – Raven’s Home
Actress and musical artist Sky Katz is best known for her scene-stealing role on Raven’s Home, the award-winning spin-off to one of Disney Channel’s most beloved series, That’s So Raven. Katz played Tess O’Malley, best friend to Raven’s daughter Nia Baxter-Carter. You can hear some of her rap skills in the Raven’s Home Season 2 episode, “Raven’s Home: Remix,” but Katz also performed on the Kim Possible (2019) soundtrack in “Party With Me.” See more of Katz by streaming Raven’s Home on Disney+!
 
Joshua Rush – Andi Mack
While Joshua Rush can be seen and heard in multiple Disney productions, including Gravity Falls, Family Guy, The Lion Guard, and Star vs. The Forces of Evil, he is best known for his role as Cyrus Goodman on Disney Channel’s Andi Mack. Cyrus was a monumental character in Disney history being the first main character on a Disney show to come out as gay, but the character is also Jewish, becoming a bar mitzvah in Season 2, episode 13 “Cyrus’ Bash-Mitzvah” and inviting his friends to sit shiva for his grandmother (a Jewish mourning practice) in Season 3, episode 8, “One in a Minyan.” Celebrate the range of experiences that Rush provided viewers as Cyrus by streaming Andi Mack on Disney+.
 
Juju Brener – Hocus Pocus 2
Juju Brener is already an accomplished actress at the ripe age of 11! Appearing in a variety of television shows, video games, and short films, Disney fans will recognize her from Disney+’s record-breaking sequel, Hocus Pocus 2! When Hocus Pocus 2 debuted in Fall 2022, it quickly became the most streamed movie in Disney+ history, proving that the Sanderson Sisters are still able to put a spell on viewers. Some of the most memorable scenes in this sinister sequel focus on the young Sanderson Sisters back in 1653 and feature Juju as little Sarah Sanderson. Bringing just as much naivety and humor as Sarah Jessica Parker’s adult version of the character, Juju adorably exemplifies how Sarah has always been a loving and devoted sister with a knack for wicked tricks. No need to wait for Halloween — we’ll be streaming Hocus Pocus 2 on Disney+ all year-round!
 
Larry Saperstein – High School Musical: The Musical: The Series
Talented stage actor, singer, and production designer Larry Saperstein is well known as Big Red on the hit Disney+ show High School Musical: The Musical: The Series. Starting off as Ricky’s drama club-averse best friend, Saperstein brought so much heart to the role that Big Red quickly became a fan favorite. We’ve seen the character go from reluctant tech crew member to a tap-dancing romantic lead and we can’t wait to see what’s next for him in Season 4 of the series. Saperstein brings diversity to High School Musical: The Musical: The Series on and off-screen through his Jewish heritage and by being one of many cast members who identify as queer and portray a character who is also queer. Celebrate Jewish bisexual icon Larry Saperstein with a High School Musical: The Musical: The Series rewatch this month!
 
Julia Lester – High School Musical: The Musical: The Series
Another Jewish actor from the LGBTQIA+ community starring in High School Musical: The Musical: The Series is Julia Lester who plays Ashlynn. Lester is a supremely talented artist (we are still belting “Wondering” from Season 1 in the car) and has moved audiences with her genuine performance as Ashlynn. We’ve followed the character through first romances, gaining confidence and landing the lead in the school play, and coming out in the most recent season of the show. You can hear Julia discuss her family’s Jewish traditions in High School Musical: The Musical: The Holiday Special, also available to stream now on Disney+!