Reverend William J. Barber II, a prominent civil rights leader, expressed disbelief and frustration as he recounted being removed from a screening of “The Color Purple” at AMC Fire Tower 12 in Greenville, North Carolina, on Tuesday. The 60-year-old reverend, who attended the movie with his 90-year-old mother, was asked to leave by theater employees who claimed his chair posed a fire code violation.
The incident unfolded during a press conference held on Friday, where Rev. Barber emphasized that the movie outing was intended as a special gift for his mother. According to reports, Greenville Police escorted Barber and his party out of the theater, although the details of who initiated the police involvement remain unclear. The Greenville Police Department has not responded to inquiries from USA TODAY.
Addressing the crowd at the press conference, Rev. Barber expressed disappointment over the abrupt interruption of their plans and underscored the theater’s choice to involve law enforcement rather than making reasonable accommodations for his visible disability. He emphasized that the outing was intended as a joyful experience for his elderly mother, and the unwarranted removal was distressing.
In response to the incident, the North Carolina NAACP, of which Barber is the former president, launched a petition urging AMC to enhance accessibility in its theaters. The organization expressed solidarity with Barber, condemning the decision to involve the police instead of accommodating his disability.
During the press conference, Rev. Barber called attention to the broader issue of accessibility for individuals with disabilities in public spaces. He encouraged those who wish to show support by bringing chairs to AMC theaters to do so only if it is a necessary means of accommodation. Barber’s call for solidarity aims to highlight the importance of inclusive spaces for individuals with disabilities.
The incident has sparked a broader conversation about accessibility and accommodation for people with disabilities, particularly in public venues such as movie theaters. Advocates argue that businesses, including theaters, should prioritize creating an inclusive environment that accommodates the diverse needs of their patrons.
AMC responded to the incident by issuing an apology to Rev. Barber. The theater chain acknowledged the situation, expressing regret for any inconvenience caused and committing to reviewing and addressing accessibility concerns. The apology signaled a recognition of the need to improve accommodations and accessibility measures to ensure that patrons with disabilities can fully enjoy their experiences at AMC theaters.
As discussions around the incident continue, there is a growing call for businesses, including entertainment venues, to prioritize accessibility and inclusivity. Ensuring that public spaces are welcoming and accommodating to individuals with disabilities is not only a legal requirement but also a fundamental aspect of fostering a more equitable and inclusive society.
In conclusion, the incident involving Reverend William J. Barber II at AMC Fire Tower 12 underscores the ongoing challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in accessing public spaces. It serves as a reminder of the importance of creating environments that prioritize inclusivity and accommodation for people of all abilities. As the conversation around accessibility continues, there is an opportunity for businesses to reassess their practices and make meaningful changes that benefit a diverse range of patrons.