Disney fans with disabilities are expressing frustration and disappointment over the company's recent changes to its Disability Access Service (DAS) policy.
The new restrictions, which now limit the service to individuals with developmental disabilities such as autism, have excluded many disabled guests who previously benefited from the system.
The policy revision has led to a significant backlash, with many sharing their experiences on social media and organizing efforts to urge Disney to reconsider the changes.
New DAS Policy Limits Access for Many Disabled Guests
The update in Disney's disability access policy restricts the service to guests with developmental disabilities like autism or similar disorders. This marks a significant shift from the previous policy, which allowed any guests who had difficulty tolerating long waits in conventional queues due to a disability to register for DAS.
The change is reportedly a response to a tripling in the number of DAS users over recent years. As a result of these changes, Disney fans have taken to social media platforms to share their struggles with renewing DAS and to voice their concerns.
More than 18,000 individuals have signed a Change.org petition initiated by a group called "DAS Defenders," which describes itself as a grassroots alliance of over 2,600 members.
The petition, which started in April, calls on Disney executives to revisit the new policy. Despite the growing pressure, Disney has yet to respond to the group's plea.
In a letter to Disney executives, DAS Defenders emphasized that Disney has long been a symbol of inclusion and acceptance for disabled people who often face discrimination, lack of access, and challenges in managing complex conditions.
However, with these recent changes, Disney has implemented in their parks, the accessibility of those who are in need has rolled back the accommodations that have existed for years, leaving many disabled people feeling abandoned.
Family Struggles at Disney and Alternative Solutions
Disney World began enforcing the new DAS rules on May 20, and Disneyland is set to follow suit on June 18.
Under the new system, guests enrolled in DAS receive a pass to return to attractions via an expedited entry line after waiting the same time as those in the regular line. This expedited line is also accessible to guests who pay for Disney's Genie+ service, which replaced the free FastPass system in 2021.
A Disney spokesperson commented that they take great pride in and understand the importance of accessibility for everyone in their theme parks, which is why the company created a comprehensive website in hopes of serving people with innovative services along with a team of cast members to help their guests make the most of their experiences.
The spokesperson also highlighted other accommodations available to guests with disabilities, such as mobility aid rentals, sign language interpreters, and dietary accommodations.
Despite these reassurances, many guests feel the new DAS policy fails to meet their needs. The people who have recently been denied include people with various conditions such as postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), Crohn's disease, post-traumatic stress disorder, Type 1 diabetes, and prosthetic limbs.
Calls for Disney to Reevaluate DAS Policy
For guests denied DAS, Disney offers an alternative return-to-queue system. This system requires entering the normal line and exiting if the wait becomes intolerable, allowing guests to receive a pass to return to their place later.
The outcry from Disney fans with disabilities highlights a broader conversation about accessibility and inclusion at theme parks.
As the debate continues, many are hopeful that Disney will consider the feedback from its guests and make adjustments to ensure that all visitors, regardless of their disabilities, can enjoy the magic of Disney.
