If I Could Have a Word with the Disney Princesses

Image Credit: PAN XIAOZHEN

Listen to "If I Could Have a Word with the Disney Princesses."

Belle I’d meet for coffee maybe on a rainy day I’d ask her what she’s reading what she’d recommend I’d ask if she’s been feeling safe I’d tell her I’m her friend I’d drop a flip phone in her bag say call me anytime that I’m happy if she’s happy but divorce is not a crime. Mulan I’d meet for tea I’d have her pick the spot I’d tell her she encouraged me to take some risks and fight for what I’ve got. With Jasmine I’d go shopping hopefully for hours I’d ask her how her tiger’s doing If Aladdin still gives her flowers I’d tell her that she played a role in my queer awakening I’d ask her may I kiss your cheek likely while blushing. Snow White I’d take hiking on her favorite trail I’d ask about the forest critters that she knows so well I’d ask if she’s still with the prince who kissed her back to life I’d ask her if he asks now before kissing his wife your body belongs to you, I’d say and I’d tell her that’s for life it doesn’t matter if you wear his ring you’re your own human and a wife. I’d kayak with Pocahontas I’d gush that she’s my favorite I’d meet trash panda and the bird if they would allow it I'd say I saw her movie in theaters three times which is really saying something since I grew up near the poverty line. With Ariel I’d go biking a chance to use our legs I’d ask about the crab and fish I’d ask if she’s okay I’d ask her if Eric listens to the voice she almost lost I’d ask her if she’s happy and if so, at what cost? I’d porch-sit with Aurora we’d keep things real low-key I’d serve her all my favorite snacks like fried green tomatoes and sweet tea I’d ask her if she’s still with Charming who kissed her while she slept I’d tell her that was so messed up no matter what he said. With Cinderella I’d suggest a drive a change of scenery down curvy, country roads we’d roam with our windows down we’d sing I’d ask her if that prince of her’s still treats her like a Queen I’d say it’s fine if after all this time she dreams of different things. I’d treat Tiana to etouffee at a restaurant near the Mississippi I’d tell her I’m so proud of her Southern, Black, and royalty I’d say I wish she’d been around when I was a youngster in Missouri where my mom remembers segregation and alive are sun-down towns but I know it’s not at all her fault and I’m glad that she’s here now. With Merida, Moana, and Rapunzel those Northern sisters as well I’d hop online for a heartfelt chat and say I love them all that I wish I’d known them as a girl but I love how they inspire because in all my little nieces they do ignite a fire.