A group of anti-Israel protesters from a Florida chapter of Queers for Palestine blocked access to Walt Disney World in Orlando, alleging that the company supports genocide. The protesters used their vehicles to block the Disney exit of Interstate 4 while holding banners and chanting “Free free Palestine.” Some drivers tried to go around the demonstrators by using the highway shoulder, while one angry motorist confronted them, expressing frustration and accusing them of causing people to hate their cause. The protesters responded by calling the man a genocide sympathizer.
The protesters claimed that nearly 35,000 Palestinians have been killed since Hamas’ attack on Israel and said that their actions were meant to disrupt business as usual during what they referred to as genocide. They accused Disney of supporting Israel without acknowledging the loss of Palestinian lives in the conflict and criticized the company for introducing an Israeli superhero in a comic book. Police arrived at the scene within 11 minutes and arrested three members of Queers for Palestine.
Videos shared on social media showed the confrontation between the protesters and the motorists, as well as the eventual clearing of the highway. The organization continued to share updates on Instagram, defending their actions and accusing Disney of perpetuating harmful stereotypes. Some drivers expressed frustration with the disruption caused by the protesters, while others showed support for their cause. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles has yet to comment on the arrests made during the protest.
The protesters’ actions were met with a mix of support and criticism, with some commending them for taking a stand against perceived injustices and others condemning their methods as disruptive and ineffective. The conflict between Israel and Palestine has long been a contentious issue, with both sides accusing the other of violence and oppression. The protesters’ actions highlight the ongoing tensions surrounding the conflict and the complex emotions it generates among individuals and groups with varying perspectives.
Despite the arrests and the backlash from some drivers, Queers for Palestine remained steadfast in their message, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness about the plight of Palestinians. The organization’s actions reflect a broader trend of activism and advocacy for social justice causes, with groups like Queers for Palestine using direct action to draw attention to issues they believe are being overlooked or silenced. The protest at Walt Disney World serves as a reminder of the power of activism in sparking conversations about difficult subjects and challenging established narratives.
