A Florida state legislator, Anna Eskamani, representing parts of the Orlando region, shared video footage and images on her social media platforms, exposing a disturbing display of individuals waving Nazi flags and showcasing fascist symbols outside Walt Disney World. Eskamani described the sight as “absolutely disgusting.”
Anti-gun activist Shannon Watts also shared an image revealing the same group of protesters holding homophobic signs. Watts further stated that the protesters, numbering about two dozen, carried signs featuring Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ face, swastikas, the n-word, and homophobic slurs. She characterized this display as representative of the “2023 Republican Party.”
The specific organization or affiliation of the protesters remains unclear. The Washington Post has sought comments from both Walt Disney World and Governor Ron DeSantis regarding the incident.
This incident takes place amidst an ongoing political dispute between Disney and Governor DeSantis. Disney filed a lawsuit against the Governor’s administration after they revoked the company’s semi-autonomous control over a tax district that oversees zoning in the theme park area. The legal battle stemmed from Disney’s opposition to the “Don’t Say Gay” legislation, which prohibits sex and gender identity education for children before the third grade. It is alleged by Disney that the Governor’s actions violated their First Amendment rights to free expression.
Walt Disney World in Orlando is known to attract LGBTQ visitors, particularly during Pride Month, making the presence of homophobic signs in this protest even more concerning. The display outside the popular tourist destination has drawn widespread condemnation from politicians, activists, and the public alike.
