Civil rights leader Bishop William Barber, known for his advocacy on various social issues, was recently involved in an incident at a North Carolina theater, shedding light on the rights and protections of people with disabilities. On Tuesday, Bishop Barber was attending a screening of The Color Purple at the Greenville AMC Theater with his 90-year-old mother. Due to a disability caused by arthritis, he carries a chair with him for support.
However, upon entering the theater, Bishop Barber was stopped by two managers who refused to allow him to bring his chair inside. Despite explaining that the chair was a necessity under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the managers insisted that only wheelchairs were permitted. This violated both the constitutional rights and the law of kindness, according to Bishop Barber.
The situation escalated further when the managers called the police, leading to Bishop Barber's removal from the premises. Outraged by the treatment he received, Bishop Barber decided to call 911 to seek clarification on the matter and ensure his safety, given the presence of armed security guards. The local police expressed remorse for their involvement, stating that they did not wish to be part of the situation.
The incident gained significant attention, prompting a response from the AMC Theater chain. AMC Chairman and CEO Adam Aaron reached out to Bishop Barber, expressing his concern and willingness to address the situation. They have scheduled a meeting for next week in Greenville, North Carolina, to discuss the incident and potential improvements that can be made regarding the treatment of individuals with disabilities.
Bishop Barber, while optimistic about the upcoming conversation with Aaron, believes that AMC should commit to providing meaningful and careful accommodations to people with disabilities. With over 10,000 screens worldwide, AMC has the opportunity to set an example in the 21st century by ensuring that all individuals can enjoy their moviegoing experience without facing discrimination or exclusion.
The incident serves as a reminder that despite the progress made in advocating for the rights of people with disabilities, there is still work to be done. Bishop Barber's activism extends beyond this isolated incident, as he continues to fight for voting rights, healthcare accessibility, living wages, and the eradication of prejudice in various forms.
As the conversation unfolds between Bishop Barber and AMC, many hope that this incident will spark a deeper understanding and commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that theaters and other public venues become spaces that celebrate diversity and honor the rights of all individuals.
