There’s a growing campaign to nominate Disney’s 1946 film Song of the South for inclusion in the National Film Registry. Led by film advocate Ed McCray, this effort aims to recognize the movie’s historical and cultural importance, even as debates continue over its portrayal of African American characters. The deadline for public nominations is August 15, 2025, according to the Library of Congress.
Why Song of the South Matters
Song of the South holds a unique place in American film history. Most notably, James Baskett’s performance as Uncle Remus earned him an Academy Award, making him the first Black actor to win an Oscar. This was a groundbreaking achievement at a time when opportunities for black performers were extremely limited.
The film also pioneered the blending of live-action and animation, a technical marvel in 1946. Its signature song, “Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah,” won an Oscar and became a cultural touchstone for generations—even as Disney recently removed it from parades and attractions, reflecting ongoing debates about the film’s legacy.
Controversy and Cultural Significance
While Song of the South has been criticized for its stereotypical depictions of African American characters, supporters of the campaign argue that preserving the film in the National Film Registry is not about endorsing outdated views. Instead, it’s about recognizing the movie’s impact, both positive and negative, on American culture and film history. The Registry’s mission is to safeguard films that are “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant,” and Song of the South fits all three criteria.
Unfortunately, Disney President Bob Iger has confirmed in 2020 that the film would not appear on Disney+, which has had the effect of increasing interest in preserving it for study and discussion.
How You Can Get Involved
The National Film Registry relies on public nominations to help decide which films are preserved for future generations. Anyone can nominate up to 50 films each year using the Library of Congress website, with this year’s deadline set for August 15, 2025.
This effort will ensure that all aspects of our cinematic past are remembered and learned from. Preserving Song of the South in the National Film Registry would allow future generations to study its artistry, achievements, and the important conversations it continues to spark. Do your part and fill out the form here.
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