Kathryn Embry, an 18-year-old, was excited for a day out with friends at an amusement park and had her heart set on riding the Ferris wheel.
However, her joy was shattered when she was refused entry while waiting in line due to her appearance, as reported by Daily Mail.
Outraged by this discrimination, Kathryn’s family and friends confronted the staff, forcing them to make a difficult decision.
Kathryn Embry, a healthy young woman from Kansas, expressed her desire to enjoy the Ferris wheel with her classmates. However, she was singled out and denied access while others were allowed to proceed.
The reason cited by the Ferris wheel staff was their concern that Kathryn, who has Down syndrome, might not adhere to the ride rules of staying still. This information was reported by Daily Mail.
Misunderstanding of “Limitations”
The staff then cited a rule stating that “disabled individuals” must be accompanied by a guardian. This decision was baffling as Kathryn, being 18 years old, should have been considered an adult capable of understanding the ride regulations despite her visible disability.
“They said I couldn’t ride the Ferris wheel because of my disability, but I really wanted to go with my friends,” shared Kathryn Embry with Fox News, as reported by Daily Mail.
Kathryn’s Leadership on the Soccer Field
Kathryn’s friends and family were astounded by the incident as they know her to be a responsible individual, even holding the position of captain on her soccer team.
“I was furious because I know how incredible Kathryn is,” stated Morgan McGruder, a friend and fellow team member.
Failure to Communicate
Kathryn’s mother mentioned that while the school was unable to intervene, Kathryn was eventually permitted to ride the Ferris wheel with an accompanying adult instead of her friends.
The amusement park’s policy requiring passengers to comprehend and observe the rules seemed fair, but the crucial error was made in assuming Kathryn’s lack of understanding without actually engaging her in a conversation about the rules due to her Down syndrome.
Surprising Contradictions
Kathryn’s teammates revealed that other individuals with disabilities had previously visited the same park without facing any obstacles, being allowed to join their peers without the need for a supervising adult. This stark contrast perplexed Kathryn’s loved ones.
“Appearance should not dictate assumptions about disabilities. Kathryn is capable of everything we are,” emphasized her friend Morgan in an interview with Fox News, according to Daily Mail.
Call for Accountability
Kathryn’s circle is now advocating for accountability from the amusement park for their discriminatory treatment. Despite their efforts, there has been no response or compensation offered by the park management in light of the incident.
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