Protests and riots lead to extra safety measures at one Disney Park

Disney is taking some extra safety measures in the wake of riots and protests.

Strikes, Protests, and Civil Unrest

Disney Parks are no strangers to strikes, protest, and general unrest. We have seen Cast Member protests regarding mandatory vaccines, reopening the parks, and wages.

Of course, dangerous Guest behavior also takes place in the parks. Climbing out of ride vehicles and bringing weapons onto property are prime examples that Disney Parks are not exactly the safest places on Earth.

Current Situation

French police killed a 17-year old teen in the Paris region last Tuesday night. The teen failed to stop for a routine traffic stop when ordered by police. According to French media, police initially suggested the teen drove his car towards them with the intention of hurting them. As of three days ago, the police officer responsible has been charged with homicide.

According to the BBC, the incident triggered a series of protests on Tuesday night in Nanterre, the area just west of Paris where the teenager was killed. Some 31 people were arrested following the disorder. The young man is the second person this year in France to have been killed in a police shooting during a traffic stop. Last year, a record 13 people died in this way.

The incident sparked anger and disorder, with cars and rubbish bins set alight and bus shelters destroyed. Fireworks were also set off near the police station. Riot police used tear gas to break up protesters, some of whom created barricades throughout the night.

Several incidents of unrest were also recorded in the towns of Asnières, Colombes, Suresnes, Aubervilliers, Clichy-sous-Bois and Mantes-la-Jolie.

Extra Safety Measures

In response, Disneyland Paris is taking extra safety measures. Both Disneyland Paris Theme Parks will close at 9:30pm tonight, July 1 and tomorrow, July 2 due to the unrest in France.

This will allow Guests and Cast Members to get home safely. In addition, Disney Dreams! will not be performed and Disney Village will close at 11pm.

Hopefully France will be able to find peace and rebuild their community after this devastating week. If you are visiting Disneyland Paris in the coming days, be aware of your surroundings and pay attention to announcements concerning safety measures.