Disneyland ResortFeatured

Families Speak Out After Witnessing ICE Protest Near Disney Resort: “Scared the Kids”

Late last night, a reported protest against ICE raids took place near Disneyland Resort, causing a significant disruption in the area and leading to a notable police and security presence. While the demonstration was reportedly peaceful, the sight of the protest near the park left some families feeling uneasy, especially as many had just finished a magical day at Disneyland.

A joyful child holds multiple plush Disney characters, including Mickey, Minnie, and Donald, in front of a colorful fairy-tale castle at a theme park. The background features spires and flags, suggesting a magical atmosphere within Disney World and Disneyland.
Credit: Disney

Protest Disrupts Disneyland’s Peaceful Atmosphere for Some Families

The main concern that has emerged from the protest is the impact it had on young children, who were caught off guard by the tense atmosphere. According to one parent who took to social media, “It was an ICE protest. Walked through it tonight to get to my hotel. Scared the sh*t out of my kids, but everyone was peaceful. They marched up a block and dispersed.” While the parents emphasized that the protest remained peaceful and there was no escalation, the sudden encounter with a large group and police presence left their children frightened, creating an unsettling moment for a family trying to wind down after a day at the park.

The protest, which focused on ICE raids, drew a large crowd that marched through the area before quickly dispersing. For many families trying to return to their hotels, the disruption came unexpectedly, adding a layer of stress after an otherwise joyful day in the park. The presence of law enforcement and the unfamiliar sight of a political demonstration created an atmosphere that some families found disturbing.

Two guests at Disneyland Park
Credit: Disney

A Disruption in the Magic

Disneyland Resort is renowned for creating a safe and magical experience for families, and this incident highlights how events in the surrounding area can affect the park experience. Although Disneyland guests are accustomed to the immersive world Disney offers, the nearby protest served as a reminder that the magic can be interrupted by outside occurrences.

Many parents have expressed their disappointment that such a protest happened near the resort, feeling that their children should not have had to witness a politically charged situation so close to the family-friendly environment of Disneyland. While the protest was peaceful, the emotional impact it had on families underscores the need for Disney to consider the timing and location of such events near the park.

What’s happening?
byu/Potential-Country700 inDisneyland

Looking Ahead: Ensuring the Magic Stays Uninterrupted

Though Disneyland Resort did not immediately comment on the situation, the incident highlights the broader challenges of maintaining an experience that is fully insulated from the realities of the outside world. While the protest was peaceful, it still disrupted the otherwise serene end to a day at Disneyland, especially for those with young children. As protests and public demonstrations continue to shape the national conversation, families are hoping for more communication and measures to ensure the magical atmosphere of Disneyland Resort is preserved, free from unexpected interruptions.

Eva Miller

Eva was born and raised in the beautiful state of Oregon but has since relocated and lives in New York City. Since she was young, Eva has loved to perform in musicals, especially Disney ones! Through performing, Disney’s music became the soundtrack of her childhood. Today, Eva loves to write about all the exciting happenings for the Walt Disney Company. In her free time, Eva loves to travel, spend time in nature, and go to Broadway shows. Her favorite Disney movie is 'Lilo and Stitch,' and her favorite Park is Disney's Animal Kingdom.

One Comment

  1. If you are going to click-bait, at least try to provide balanced/truthful information.
    A peaceful protest does not require a police presence.
    These Disney families upset by what is happening near their hotel should use this as a teaching moment and explain to their children that families of immigrants are being ripped apart to meet a cruel quota.

Related Articles