Barcelona footballer Lamine Yamal is facing legal and public action after the Association of People with Achondroplasia and Other Skeletal Dysplasias (ADEE) condemned his decision to hire people with dwarfism as entertainment for his 18th birthday celebration on July 13.
Photo: Instagram/X
ADEE, a member organisation of the Spanish Confederation of People with Physical and Organic Disabilities (COCEMFE), stated that individuals with dwarfism were hired solely for promotional and entertainment purposes during Yamal’s party.
The Association labelled this practice “intolerable,” arguing that it perpetuates stereotypes and infringes on the dignity of people with disabilities.
“It’s unacceptable that in the 21st century, people with dwarfism continue to be used as entertainment at private parties,” said ADEE president Carolina Puente. “The dignity and rights of our community are not entertainment for anyone, under any circumstances.”
The Association emphasised the broader impact when influential public figures are involved, especially in shaping social norms among younger generations.
Lamine Yamal has not issued a public response regarding the Association’s statement.
The Spain international, who turned 18, recently completed a strong season with Barcelona, winning LaLiga and the Copa del Rey, and is expected to wear the club’s No.10 shirt in the coming season.
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