Raleigh, N.C. — Civil rights leader Rev. Dr. William Barber II has filed a federal lawsuit against AMC Theatres, the world’s largest movie theater chain, alleging disability discrimination following an incident at an AMC location in Greenville, North Carolina, on December 19, 2023. Barber’s legal action is the latest in a series of publicized accusations of discriminatory practices levied against the embattled entertainment giant.
The lawsuit, announced during a press conference in Raleigh on Thursday, comes one year after Barber’s viral encounter with AMC staff, during which he was reportedly denied the right to use a custom orthopedic chair that accommodates his arthritic condition. Barber, who relies on two canes for mobility, was escorted out of the theater by police after the staff allegedly refused to make reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
“This lawsuit isn’t about me—it’s about holding corporations like AMC accountable for how they treat people with disabilities,” Barber said in a statement shared with the media. “It’s a fight for every person who endures physical pain and obstacles every day, and it’s about ensuring their dignity is upheld.”
Incident Sparks National Debate
The incident occurred while Barber was watching The Color Purple with his elderly mother. Barber claims AMC staff rejected his ADA-compliant chair, stating it was not permitted in the wheelchair-accessible section since he did not use a wheelchair. Despite efforts to explain his medical necessity, police were called to intervene. Video footage of the event shows Barber calmly explaining his position to officers, emphasizing his legal rights under the ADA.
“I’ve used this chair in venues from Broadway to the White House,” Barber told WRAL News. “AMC’s response was humiliating and dehumanizing.”
AMC’s Response
AMC Theatres, facing public backlash after the incident, issued an apology and pledged to review its policies. In a statement, AMC Chairman and CEO Adam Aron expressed regret and promised to meet with Barber personally to address the matter.
While Barber acknowledged the apology, his attorney, Harry Daniels, emphasized that words alone were insufficient. “This lawsuit seeks meaningful accountability and systemic change,” Daniels said. “Corporations cannot hide behind empty apologies while violating fundamental rights.”
A Pattern of Discrimination?
This is not the first time AMC Theatres has faced accusations of discrimination.
• 2019 Incident in Louisiana: A group of elderly Black women watching Harriet at an AMC location near New Orleans was accused of occupying incorrect seats despite presenting valid tickets. The movie was interrupted, and the women described the ordeal as “humiliating,” particularly given the film’s subject matter.
• Racial Profiling in Arizona: Civil rights attorney Ben Crump filed a lawsuit in 2021 on behalf of Larry Shelton, a Black man accused of sneaking into an AMC theater in Phoenix despite possessing a valid ticket. Shelton’s wrongful accusation was caught on video, prompting public outrage.
In both cases, AMC apologized and announced bias training initiatives for staff. However, critics argue these measures have not gone far enough.
Implications for Disability Rights
Barber’s lawsuit also highlights broader issues surrounding ADA compliance and the treatment of disabled patrons in public spaces. Passed in 1990, the ADA mandates businesses to make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. Yet, disability rights advocates say enforcement remains inconsistent, with many corporations failing to prioritize accessibility.
“Rev. Barber’s case is a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equity in public spaces,” said Dr. Lisa Carter, a disability rights expert at Duke University. “The ADA isn’t just about ramps and parking spaces—it’s about dignity and inclusion.”
AMC’s Financial Struggles and Public Perception
The lawsuit arrives at a challenging time for AMC Theatres, which has grappled with financial instability and a tarnished reputation. Amid declining box office revenues and competition from streaming platforms, AMC has faced increased scrutiny for its handling of customer relations.
Bull City Citizen readers may recall AMC’s controversial move earlier this year to implement tiered seating prices, a decision met with significant backlash for potentially alienating lower-income patrons.
What’s Next?
Barber’s lawsuit seeks unspecified damages and a court mandate for AMC to reform its policies regarding ADA compliance. A trial date has yet to be announced.
As this story develops, the Bull City Citizen will continue to provide in-depth reporting on the case and its implications. For exclusive updates, visit BullCityCitizen.com and subscribe to our newsletter.
Why It Matters
Rev. Barber’s lawsuit is not just a legal matter—it’s a call to action against systemic discrimination. Whether addressing racial bias or disability rights, AMC Theatres must confront its troubling history and commit to meaningful change.
For more investigative journalism and coverage of issues that matter to the Bull City, trust the Bull City Citizen—your source for fair, fearless, and factual reporting.
