Disney has introduced a new fairy on its website, Pixie Hollow - a dude named Slate. He is a variation on Tinker Bell from "Peter Pan," J.M Barrie's famous play and subsequent novel, "Peter Pan and Wendy."
The androgynous new character is not called a "fairy boy," however. "Sparrow Man" is the preferred term, and now both genders are represented on the website which allows children to choose a flying avatar. Just as Barbie had to have Ken for that touch of um, reality, the girl fairies needed some masculine energy in the Hollow. With big wings.
Now boys can openly log onto Pixie Hollow without embarrassment, and children may choose which gender they want representing them. It also increases the wardrobe possibilities - Slate has some very cool hats. I'd like to believe that making toys and games non-gender specific will lead to true equality in the home and the workplace where people are free to pursue their interests without fear, and accepted as more than their reproductive roles. A concept which is long and painfully overdue.
