Opinion: Disney New Disability Access Service

Introduction

Growing up, Disney wasn't just a place of fantasy; it was a sanctuary where my mom, a paraplegic, and I found solace amidst life's challenges. Despite the constant reminder of her disability, Disney welcomed us, offering accommodations that allowed us to share moments of pure joy and wonder. It provided an opportunity to escape the harsh realities of living in a world primarily designed for able-bodied individuals, granting us a few days out of the year where we could relax without the constant worry of arranging accommodations, as many were already in place for us.

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Walt Disney's words, "To all who come to this happy place: Welcome," spoken during the dedication of the Disneyland Resort in 1955, embody the inclusive spirit of the parks. Disney provided a unique opportunity for me to enjoy experiences with my mom that would have been inaccessible at most theme parks. She could simply roll onto rides like "It's a Small World," the Kilimanjaro Safari, or even be transferred into the Tower of Terror. These moments allowed us to create cherished memories together, defying the limitations imposed by her disability. However, it's important to acknowledge that while Disney is great, not all rides and attractions are accessible to all guests with disabilities.

Disney once had a Guest Assistance Card program that provided individuals with impairments access to limited wait times for rides. This practice, now retired, ensured that my mom and I did not have to stand in line awkwardly. This would help her conserve energy without overexertion. Additionally, this practice ensured that individuals with health issues who needed to leave the line due to health accommodations could take care of their needs.

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The last time my mom and I visited Disney was in 2007, coinciding with the launch of Expedition Everest at Animal Kingdom. We were able to use the Special Assistance Card, enabling my mom to muster the energy to transfer into the ride, which wasn't easy. Although Expedition Everest terrified my mom, that unforgettable experience will always stay with me.

In June of 2023, I graduated with my Master of Education. Still unsure of where or what to pursue in life, I recognized the incredible opportunity to work for a company that had meant so much to me over the years. And indeed, it was an exhilarating and fun experience.

Upon arriving at Disney, I immediately noticed significant changes in the parks. New services like Genie Plus and Lightning Lane options enabled guests to bypass lines for specific rides for a fee. The DAS Pass, akin to Lightning Lane but provided at no cost to registered guests requiring assistance with long queues, had now replaced the Guest Assistance Card. I regarded this as an outstanding service, offering invaluable support to those needing accommodations.

When my internship ended, I planned to have my mom come to spend five days with me to celebrate. I advised my mother to register for a DAS Pass through Disney's video call system. Without empathy, the representative told my mother that paraplegics do not qualify for DAS. I was beyond frustrated. I did not understand how paraplegics who might suffer from exhaustion, bladder control issues, or temperature regulation problems did not qualify. I pondered how many individuals with different disabilities encountered similar challenges.

Weeks later, Disney unveiled their new plan, which states that DAS is "intended to accommodate guests who are unable to wait in a conventional queue for an extended period of time. This includes guests with developmental disabilities like autism or similar." While autism is indeed important, this language excludes individuals who do not have cognitive developmental disabilities. Disney did offer a "return to queue" process, but specifics of this process have not been released to the public. Also, Disney is now working with health professionals to help determine eligibility. However, this new process is concerning. The decision to exclude certain disabilities from the program perpetuates a system of marginalization. By prioritizing certain types of disabilities over others, Disney sends a message that the needs of individuals with other disabilities are less important or deserving of accommodation.

With summer travel upon us, Disney should prioritize accommodations to ensure that people with disabilities have access to as many rides as feasibly possible. Despite paying the same amount as all guests, it's unfair that not every attraction is accessible to them. Disney should explore alternative measures to guarantee equitable experiences for all visitors. After all, everyone contributes to the funding of the facilities, and it's only fair that accommodations are in place to accommodate the diverse needs of all guests. Moving forward, Disney, a company filled with innovation, must figure out an inclusive solution for everyone to uphold its reputation as a great company that prioritizes accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring that all guests can enjoy magical experiences at their parks.

About the Author

Cecily Cox is a current disability rights advocate. She holds an undergraduate degree in Human Rights from Southern Methodist University, and a Master's in Education from Santa Clara University.

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Cite This Page (APA): Cecily Cox. (2024, April 25). Opinion: Disney New Disability Access Service. Disabled World. Retrieved September 8, 2024 from www.disabled-world.com/editorials/das.php

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