Did the 18th birthday party of Barcelona football star Jamal turn into a nightmare for disability rights? The Association of People with Achondroplasia and other Skeletal Dysplasias (ADEE) has raised a storm over the hiring of dwarf entertainers at Jamal’s private birthday bash, held on a Saturday night just one day after he turned 18. Spain’s Ministry of Social Rights immediately called on prosecutors to investigate whether the rights of people with disabilities were violated.
The party took place about 50 kilometers west of Barcelona and was attended by several famous personalities, including Jamal’s Barcelona teammates and music stars. Although filming was banned, a video surfaced on social media showing a group of people with dwarfism entering the celebration. One of the performers, who wished to remain anonymous, told Catalan radio station RAC1 that no one was insulted and that they were simply doing their job—entertaining guests by dancing, handing out drinks, and performing tricks.
However, ADEE publicly condemned the practice, stating that hiring people with dwarfism for entertainment perpetuates harmful stereotypes, encourages discrimination, and undermines the rights of people with disabilities. The association announced plans to take legal action against the party organizers.
Chimbala, a dwarf rapper who was at the party, posted a video on Instagram singing with Jamal on stage, while Barcelona players Gavi and Alejandro Balde played in the background. Jamal, a Ballon d’Or candidate and one of the world’s best young footballers, helped Barcelona win the domestic treble last season—the La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Spanish Super Cup.
This controversy raises the question: where is the line between entertainment and respect for disability rights? Is hiring dwarfs as entertainers at a private party truly offensive, or just another baseless witch hunt? Either way, this topic is sure to be debated for a long time. What do you think? Over the top or justified? Drop your thoughts—maybe we can figure this out together!
