As a devoted lifelong Disney fan and visitor to the Walt Disney World theme park, the recent news about the proposed removal of Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island strikes a painful chord. These areas are more than just attractions to me. They embody the sense of wonderment and magic that Walt Disney himself envisioned when he brought his parks to life. My personal connection to Disney World is powerful. I have traveled a thousand miles on countless occasions to immerse myself in the park, even choosing it as the backdrop for my wedding. I’ve also experienced Disney’s other theme parks in California and Paris. I’ve been a loyal fan for many years and my devotion to their charm, whimsy, and overall aesthetic has always been one of the main reasons I’ve prioritized Disney over other vacation destinations.

But in recent years, several changes have been made that haven’t sat well with me or a great majority of the consumers. Changes such as tearing up the iconic fountain in Epcot to replace with plain scenery and planters; bland white high school cafeteria-like buildings with a classic name like “Communicore” slapped on it to give it the Disney Branding; Marriott style hotel towers springing up around the resort; constant rethemeing of beloved rides and lands, like the Great Movie Ride and the Streets of America, that have long been favorites of loyal Disney customers like me, meanwhile empty buildings remain across property and undeveloped land surrounds each theme park.

Now, Disney Imagineering and executives aim to relinquish even more of these iconic areas, eradicating the Liberty Square Riverboat, removing Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America, and drastically impacting the ambience of Liberty Square in Magic Kingdom. These changes go beyond just remodeling. They signify a shift towards compromising the original vision to make way for new intellectual properties once again.

The land surrounding the park is immense, therefore providing ample space to accommodate new developments without tampering with areas that have long been integral to the Disney World experience. Walt Disney World attracts on average around 58 million visitors annually, highlighting the potent appeal of its currently existing attractions and themed lands. By removing and replacing these much-loved spaces, there's a risk of alienating many dedicated patrons.

Let us preserve the tradition and the timeless charm that Walt Disney worked so fervently to create. Sign this petition to ask Disney Imagineering and executives to reconsider their decision and find a new home for their proposed land, ensuring Walt Disney World remains a place where all generations can enjoy the heritage of Disney's pioneering imagination.