This article examines the impact of Disney’s changes to the Disability Access Service (DAS) policy since 2024 at their parks in the United States through the lens of disability studies, critical access theory, intersectionality and feminist ethics of care. While the DAS programme used to provide guests with visible and invisible disabilities access to attractions through return times, the new policy restricts eligibility primarily to individuals with developmental disabilities such as autism. Using a detailed case study of my disabled mother, who was denied DAS after the policy change, the article analyses how Disney’s implementation of accommodations has shifted from a relational, care-based approach to a transactional, exclusionary model. This shift not only excludes guests with complex or lesser-known disabilities but also illustrates indifference in the company’s approach to accessibility. The research argues that by framing access as a privilege rather than a right, Disney undermines its inclusive values and alienates disabled guests. Findings highlight how inadequate staff training, reliance on unqualified evaluators and inconsistent application of policy create additional barriers for disabled guests to enjoy the Parks. The article concludes by advocating for a care-centred accessibility model that incorporates medical documentation, disability awareness training and the participation of disabled guests in policy design to restore accessibility to the American Disney Parks, just like in their European and Asian Parks.
Frederic Caeyers (Wed,) studied this question.