Disney is facing criticism from disabled fans and advocacy groups over recent changes to its Disability Access Services (DAS), which allows guests with disabilities to skip long wait times at its theme parks. Critics argue that the new rules, requiring potential users to undergo video interviews to assess eligibility, are too restrictive and question Disney’s authority in defining disability. Advocacy group member Shannon Bonadurer shared her experience of being denied access to DAS for herself and her visually impaired son, highlighting the emotional toll of these changes.
Disney claims it aims to provide a great experience for all guests, including those with disabilities, and states that the DAS program limits have been adjusted due to past abuses of the system. The percentage of DAS users had increased significantly over the past decade, which prompted these updates. While Disney offers various amenities, the new rules restrict access mostly to guests with developmental disabilities who struggle to wait in lines.
A shareholder proposal from DAS Defenders calls for hiring an independent expert to evaluate Disney’s disability access practices. However, Disney plans to block this proposal, arguing that claims about declining park attendance linked to DAS changes are false, attributing issues instead to external factors like hurricanes.
Source link
