AMC Issues Apology for Removal of Civil Rights Leader William Barber II at 'The Color Purple' Screening
Civil rights leader Bishop William Barber was denied accommodation for his disability at an AMC theater in Greenville, NC, leading to police being called for alleged trespassing. Barber, who has ankylosing spondylitis, brought his own chair to a screening of "The Color Purple" but was told it would create a fire hazard. AMC's CEO has since reached out to Barber to discuss the incident and review policies. The North Carolina NAACP, which Barber formerly headed, is calling for AMC to ensure accessibility and has started an online petition. Barber has retained civil rights attorneys and plans to meet with AMC's president for systemic change.