Astrid Lindgren's World Apologizes for Insensitivity Towards Deaf Child's Interpreter

Five-year-old Märtha, who is deaf, is excited to visit Astrid Lindgren's World to see Pippi Longstocking on stage. However, the park initially requested that Märtha and her sign language interpreter remain in the background to avoid "drawing attention," a decision that sparked outrage.

Märtha's mother, Daniella Larsson, expressed her disappointment, stating, "It feels like she should be ashamed of her disability." The family, from Lenhovda, had planned to travel to Vimmerby in September, booking a sign language interpreter through the Växjö Interpretation Center as usual.

"Can't Explain What They Mean"

To ensure Märtha could focus on both the interpreter and the performance, a front-row seat was recommended. However, the park declined, citing concerns that the interpreter would "draw attention away from other guests," as reported by Vimmerby Tidning.

Daniella Larsson was shocked by the response, emphasizing the importance of equal inclusion for children with disabilities. "We use interpreters regularly and have always received the necessary support," she said.

CEO: Apologizes for Poor Response

Joacim Johansson, the park's CEO, expressed regret over the response given to the family. "It was a poor response, and that's not how we should handle such matters. We've addressed it with the guest and apologized," he stated.

He assured that if the family visits as planned, they will receive the accommodations recommended by the Interpretation Center. Johansson also noted that the park frequently hosts children requiring sign language interpretation and organizes its own interpretation events during the summer.

Daniella Larsson appreciates the CEO's apology and hopes for a positive update from the park soon.