Groundbreaking DAS research was revealed Friday at the 2024 Themed Experiences and Attractions Academic Symposium as part of the International Associations of Amusement Parks and Attractions Convention by Professor Barbara Burgess-Lefebvre of Robert Morris University and Johnna Lefebvre. 

The study exposes the significant impacts of recent changes to Disney’s Disability Access Service (DAS). 

Check out this story in USA Today!  https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/experience/theme-parks/2024/11/22/disney-das-study-new-policies-impact/

Join the conversation, share your story, and help raise awareness for this critical issue by sharing your experience or one of the sample social media posts! 

Key Points

• Of those who previously relied on DAS and applied under the new system 2 in 3 were denied—a stark disparity that leaves disabled guests without necessary accommodations.
• Decreased Attendance: 50% of guests denied DAS accommodations indicated they would visit Disney less often, and 36% stated they would no longer visit at all.  
• Increased Anxiety: Nearly 90% of respondents reported heightened anxiety during the new DAS application process.  
• Disney Parks are becoming increasingly inaccessible, pushing away disabled guests who once felt welcome.
• Advocates are calling on Disney to prioritize inclusion and transparency in its accommodation process.

SAMPLE SOCIAL MEDIA POSTS YOU CAN SHARE

• A new study reveals 86% of disabled guests plan to visit Disney World less or not at all due to changes in the Disability Access Service (DAS). Full findings to be unveiled at #IAAPAExpo. Disabled guests deserve better. 🛑 #DisneyDAS #AccessibilityMatters @disneyparks
• 💔 2 in 3 of previous DAS recipients reported been denied since Disney’s new policies began in 2024.
  This isn’t inclusion—it’s exclusion. Disabled guests are being pushed out of the magic. Join us in demanding change! #DASDefenders #DisabilityRights @disneyparks 
• FACT: 50% of guests denied DAS plan to visit @DisneyParks less often, and 36% say they’ll stop visiting entirely.
  This is what happens when disabled guests are excluded. Disney, we’re watching. #DisneyFail #Accessibility @disneyparks 
• 86% of disabled guests plan to visit @DisneyParks less or not at all. Why? Because Disney’s DAS changes are leaving us behind."
  💔 66% denied. 90% report anxiety.
  Disney, this is NOT the magic we deserve. Help us fight for inclusion: www.change.org/disabledaccess 
• 📢 Breaking Research Alert 📢
  A new study presented at #IAAPAExpo reveals the significant harm caused by Disney’s recent Disability Access Service (DAS) changes:
  86% of disabled guests plan to visit Disney less or not at all.
  2 out 3 previous DAS users have been denied under new, stricter criteria.
  90% of guests report anxiety during the application process.
  These changes mark a troubling shift away from Disney’s legacy of accessibility. Disabled guests, advocates, and families are calling for action to restore inclusive accommodations and ensure all guests can safely enjoy the magic.
• BREAKING: A new study has unveiled the harsh reality disabled guests face at @DisneyParks due to DAS changes. The findings are shocking:
  ⚠️ 86% of disabled guests say they’ll visit Disney less or not at all.
  ⚠️ 2 in 3 of previous DAS users report being denied under stricter policies.
  ⚠️ 90% of respondents experience anxiety due to the new application process.
  The magic is fading for disabled guests. 💔 Join us in calling on Disney to restore inclusive policies and bring back the magic for everyone. Sign the petition: www.change.org/disabledaccess