The Barcelona and Spain winger marked his milestone birthday over the weekend, celebrating with loved ones along the Mediterranean coast. ..Continue Reading
Yamal was seen enjoying the festivities alongside fellow Barcelona players Gavi and Alejandro Balde, as well as well-known Spanish artists and influencers like Bizarrap, Duki, Ozuna, and Bad Gyal.
At first, the event seemed to be a joyful occasion without any incidents, and reports from the Mail claim that Dominican rapper El Alfa gifted Yamal a £300,000 chain.
But on Sunday, the Association for People with Achondroplasia and Other Skeletal Dysplasias with Dwarfism (ADEE) issued a statement accusing Yamal of using individuals with dwarfism as part of the entertainment.
A statement (translated from Spanish to English) posted on the association’s website read: “The Association of People with Achondroplasia and Other Skeletal Dysplasias with Dwarfism (ADEE), a member organization of the Spanish Confederation of People with Physical and Organic Disabilities (COCEMFE), condemns and publicly denounces the hiring of people with dwarfism as part of the entertainment at the recent 18th birthday party of soccer player Lamine Yamal.
“The Association announces that it will take legal and social action to safeguard the dignity of people with disabilities, considering that these actions violate not only current legislation but also the fundamental ethical values of a society that seeks to be egalitarian and respectful.
“During the birthday of the young footballer, a prominent figure in Spanish sport, people with dwarfism were hired solely for entertainment and promotional activities. ADEE considers this type of practice intolerable because it perpetuates stereotypes, fuels discrimination, and undermines the image and rights of those with achondroplasia or other skeletal dysplasias, as well as all people with disabilities.”
ADEE President Carolina Puente added: “It’s unacceptable that in the 21st century, people with dwarfism continue to be used as entertainment at private parties, and even more serious when these incidents involve public figures like Lamine Yamal. The dignity and rights of our community are not entertainment for anyone, under any circumstances.”
Evengo reports that in numerous nations — Canada among them — employing individuals with dwarfism for entertainment is outlawed, though it may be permitted if the individuals explicitly consent.
Within the United Kingdom, while such performances aren’t prohibited by law, they are governed by safety standards and generally viewed as morally questionable.
The Guardian noted in 2023 that Spain’s legislature officially prohibited bullfighting events featuring people with dwarfism, a move celebrated by advocates for disability rights.
