Anti-ICE Protest Erupts at Disneyland, Temporarily Halts ‘It’s a Small World’

An anti-ICE protest broke out inside Disneyland this weekend, briefly disrupting several attractions as demonstrators attempted to raise awareness about immigration policy in what they described as “one of the most visible cultural spaces in America.”

The protest, which began near Sleeping Beauty Castle, escalated after demonstrators moved deeper into the park, chanting slogans and unfurling signs while guests attempted to continue their vacations. Anaheim police were eventually called in to restore order as tensions rose and park operations were temporarily interrupted.

Witnesses reported that protesters shouted obscenities while riding It’s a Small World, drawing confused reactions from families and international visitors who were unclear how the attraction factored into federal immigration enforcement.

“This is about visibility,” said one organizer. “If we don’t protest everywhere, we’re complicit.”

The situation intensified after activists redirected their focus to Space Mountain, which they described as “deeply problematic.” According to protesters, the ride’s complete darkness represents a broader pattern of exclusion.

“Darkness is not neutral,” one demonstrator explained. “Dark is black. Black is a color. And colors have histories.”

Several protesters claimed the attraction should be re-evaluated or removed entirely, accusing ICE of “wanting to deport Space Mountain” due to its darkness — a statement organizers later clarified was meant to be “symbolic, but also literal in spirit.”

Park guests expressed confusion as chants echoed through Tomorrowland, with some asking whether the protest was an official Disney experience.

“I thought it was part of a show,” said one visitor. “Then I realized they were yelling about ICE.”

Disney officials declined to comment on the ideological framing of the protest but confirmed that normal operations resumed shortly afterward. Anaheim authorities emphasized that their role was limited to restoring order and ensuring guest safety.

Activists later praised the protest as a success, citing social media engagement and “disrupted joy” as key indicators of impact.

“When people are uncomfortable at Disneyland,” one organizer said, “that’s how you know the message is working.”