Accessibility at Disney: A Conversation We Need to Have

Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World in Florida, a majestic and iconic fairytale castle with blue rooftops, golden spires, and pink and gray walls. The setting includes a clear sky and a few decorations in the foreground, emphasizing the grandeur and magical atmosphere of the castle.

Growing up in Los Angeles, some of my best childhood memories were at The Walt Disney Company parks with friends. For a little while, the challenges of living with a disability seemed to fade away. I felt free, just another kid thrilled by the magic of Disney. Sure, entering rides through the exit to skip the long lines wasn’t a perfect system—it drew attention to my differences—but it made those moments possible. I used to joke with my friends: “Want to trade disabilities for this perk?” Unsurprisingly, no one ever did. Guess the FastPass for chronic pain wasn’t worth it.

Decades later, Disney’s recent changes to its Disability Access Service and the growing shortage of Electric Conveyance Vehicles have created significant barriers, leaving many wondering if inclusivity still has a place in the magic.

For years, DAS offered a lifeline, providing virtual queues that allowed disabled guests to avoid physically taxing lines. But in 2024, new restrictions left many who had relied on the service feeling excluded. Black Enterprise Magazine reports a recent study shared with the IAAPA found nearly half of those denied DAS said they’d visit Disney parks less often; over a third said they wouldn’t return at all. A spokesperson for DAS Defenders summed it up perfectly: “The changes to DAS and the ECV shortage are creating barriers for disabled guests who simply want to enjoy the parks.”

The ECV shortage has only made things worse. Disney positioned these vehicles as an alternative to DAS, yet supply can’t keep up with demand. A photo that went viral of a sign at Magic Kingdom announcing all ECVs were sold out for the day struck a nerve. For those of us who rely on mobility aids, this isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a dealbreaker. Imagine being told “the most magical place on Earth” has everything but a seat for you. These changes appear driven by cost-cutting rather than a genuine commitment to inclusivity.

Accessibility isn’t a bonus feature. It’s the foundation for creating spaces where everyone can participate fully. Disney has made strides in other areas, but these recent decisions cast doubt on whether they’re truly listening to their disabled guests. For a company built on the promise of magic for all, this feels like a step backward.

Still, I believe change is possible. Disney can revisit its DAS policies, ensure adequate ECV availability, and engage with disability advocates to craft a more inclusive strategy. After all, a more inclusive Disney isn’t just better for disabled guests; it’s better for everyone.

This isn’t just about Disney, though. It’s a reminder that accessibility is a collective responsibility. Whether at work, in public spaces, or at amusement parks, we all have a role to play in building a world where inclusion isn’t an afterthought but a given.

Magic with a Side of Bureaucracy: Navigating Theme Parks and Airlines with Disabilities

Theme Park goers are seen on a rollercoaster

Growing up in sunny California, I was fortunate to be surrounded by some of the world's most iconic theme parks - Disneyland Resort, Universal Studios Hollywood, and Six Flags Magic Mountain. These parks were more than just places of entertainment; they were sanctuaries where I felt included and normal amongst my peers. As someone with multiple disabilities, these visits were moments of liberation where I could feel free to be a kid without being overly self conscious or restrained by disability.

Back in the day, it was standard practice to obtain a visitor's pass from guest services, allowing us to enter from the exit and avoid the long wait times. But times have changed.

Now, Universal is introducing a new protocol. As Michelle Diamentper writes in Disability Scoop, "Starting this week, however, Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood will require that individuals apply for a special card known as the Individual Accessibility Card prior to their visit in order to qualify for an Attraction Assistance Pass." This card, issued by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), requires documentation detailing the type of accommodations requested, at least 48 hours before arrival.

Disney by contrast allows disabled patrons to receive return times in the theme park’s mobile app comparable to the ride’s posted wait time.

While new policies aim to prevent misuse, they inadvertently create additional hurdles for disabled patrons. As Jennifer Shelton told The Wall Street Journal, “It’s just another thing we have to think through when travel is already hard and we’re trying to make it as fun as possible.”

Flying, another aspect of my travels, has its own set of challenges. With Canine Companions® Pico by my side, I've had to navigate the maze of paperwork required by the 2020 update to Air Carrier Access Act. While I pride myself on being organized and adept at bureaucracy, there are days when the energy simply isn't there, especially when I travel. The added burden of paperwork is a reality many disabled individuals face, deterring us from accessing services and entertainment. Open Doors Organization is helping streamlining the process for airline passengers flying with Alaska Airlines and JetBlue, still the added layers can be exhausting when you're already depleted from the stress of travel.

While measures to prevent system abuse are essential, it's crucial to ensure they don't inadvertently make life harder for those genuinely in need. As we advocate for more inclusivity, it's essential to strike the right balance, ensuring everyone has the chance to experience the magic of theme parks and the freedom of travel.

Some Travelers Abused Disability Accommodations. Now Comes the Crackdown