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Visitors at Disneyland’s renowned “It’s a Small World” attraction recently encountered an unexpected sight. Over the weekend, a protest doll holding a sign reading “Remember Hiroshima” sparked curiosity and debate among guests, leading to a flurry of online discussions.
Footage of the doll circulated widely on social media platforms like TikTok and Reddit. These clips showed a woman walking through Disneyland with the doll, which was also placed strategically within the “It’s a Small World” exhibit, near one of the ride’s tunnels.
This unusual political statement triggered a wave of speculation, particularly due to the park’s stringent security measures. Many social media users were left questioning the significance of this stunt and how the doll managed to make its way into the famously family-friendly attraction.
The mastermind behind the protest was none other than Ben Cohen, co-founder of the ice cream brand Ben & Jerry’s. In an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, he disclosed that the protest was part of his “Up in Arms” campaign, aimed at criticizing U.S. government spending on military weaponry. Cohen asserts that his discontent extends beyond the current administration, highlighting that issues surrounding the Pentagon’s budget resonate across bipartisan lines.
“The idea behind the Small World exhibit is that it’s a small world after all,” Cohen remarked during the interview. “Children from various countries come together, embracing love and unity. The doll that says ‘Remember Hiroshima’ serves as a reminder of the past, urging us to remember the tragedies caused by the atomic bomb. After such devastation, the collective commitment should be—never again.”
This political action coincides with the upcoming 80th anniversary of the Hiroshima bombings, a catastrophic event during World War II that resulted in over 100,000 fatalities in Japan. In his discussion with Fox News Digital, Cohen specifically addressed his concerns regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza, labeling it as the “moral issue of our time.” He expressed strong disapproval of the Pentagon’s nearly $900 billion budget.
“They’ve turned us all into murderers, and they’re using our tax dollars to fund weaponry forced upon people in Gaza,” Cohen stated. “Among the victims are countless children, similar to the girl represented by the doll we placed in Disneyland.”
According to Cohen, the criticism regarding U.S. military spending and the push for weapon stockpiling is an issue entrenched in both major political parties. He emphasized that although President Trump is the current figurehead of this military budget, previous administrations bear responsibility as well.
“While Trump is in office now, every president before him played a role in shaping our nuclear arsenal,” he argued, reflecting on decades of U.S. military policy.
In fact, Trump himself has often touted his vision of “peace through strength,” suggesting a powerful military deters foreign conflicts. In remarks made during a speech at West Point Military Academy in May, he stated, “For at least two decades, political leaders from both parties have dragged our military into missions it was never meant to be.”
Previously, he called for an end to these practices, advocating for peace instead of involvements perceived as nation-building. Trump expressed a desire for partnerships even with nations where the U.S. may have significant differences.
A representative from Disneyland confirmed that a cast member quickly removed the protest doll once it was spotted in the attraction. They reiterated the importance of adhering to the park’s rules and stated that the activist responsible for placing the doll exited without incident.
Ben & Jerry’s co-founders have a tracked history of engaging in social justice endeavors. This includes the introduction of flavors like “Pecan Resist” during the first Trump administration and “Change the Whirled,” developed in collaboration with former NFL player Colin Kaepernick, known for his kneeling protest during the national anthem.
Cohen himself has a history of activism, including being detained during a Senate hearing related to aid for Gaza last May.
The protester stated he is launching a four-year initiative to advocate for a reduction in the U.S. military budget. His goal is to redirect funds toward programs that serve the public interest effectively.
“Americans are fundamentally compassionate,” Cohen maintained. “We do not want to harm families across the globe; rather, we seek a better life for ourselves and our children. Citizens desire access to quality living conditions, education, and affordable childcare. Yet, the narrative suggests a lack of funding when, in reality, public resources are squandered on preparing for conflict.”
This incident at Disneyland may serve as a stark reminder of ongoing political movements and the diverse ways individuals express their concerns. As conversations surrounding military spending and social justice evolve, the visibility of such protests challenges society to reflect and engage on critical issues that affect lives worldwide.
