Disney's Disturbing New Trend: Guests Defecating in Ride Lines

In two separate incidents this past month, Disney park guests have sparked outrage by defecating inside ride queues at Walt Disney World and Disneyland. Photos shared on social media reveal park visitors are relieving themselves in plain sight, creating unsanitary conditions.

The first case occurred in the line for Rise of the Resistance at Disney World. A Reddit user reported witnessing a parent allow their child to defecate on the floor before leaving the mess and walking away. Though shocking, other Disney World visitors confirmed the account. A commenter who worked at the ride revealed sanitation issues were an ongoing problem there, with three similar "poop incidents" that same day.

This was not an isolated event. At Disney's Animal Kingdom, guests said a portion of the Flight of Passage queue has earned the nickname "poop hall" from cast members due to frequent defecations. "I dealt with way too many bodily fluids at that attraction," one former employee lamented.

In the book "Cleaning the Kingdom,” two former Disneyland custodians confirm defecating in ride lines is a common occurrence. The practice got so out of hand, cleaners had a code term for it: "Human Code H.” Originally referencing Disney horses soiling the park, the code quickly expanded to cover human waste as well. The book details a guest who could not find a restroom and resorted to "depositing her gift" inside the ride operator's booth.

Disney cast members have expressed dismay at these incidents. But some speculate long ride waits and limited restroom access may encourage the behavior, as misguided visitors become desperate.

Whatever the motives, public defecation poses serious health hazards in crowded theme parks. Disease spreads rapidly through shared contact, while exposure to human waste risks infection. The results could be dire, especially for children, the elderly, and those with compromised immunity.

Yet custodial staff bear the worst impacts as the first responders to biohazards. Workers have voiced outrage over being expected to simply clean up and move on after such egregious messes. Many see it as a glaring sign of disrespect.

Labor groups have advocated for improved working conditions and safety protocols for Disney's frontline custodians. But public defecation introduces further indignities. Critics say cast members deserve far better treatment.Disney's Reputation Takes a Hit

For Disney, a company that stakes its reputation on family-friendly magic, the defecation debacle represents a PR nightmare. Visitors expect a high standard of experience, including clean, sanitary environments.

But this growing trend tarnishes the Disney brand image. Guests express disbelief that others could act so shamelessly, willfully ruining the experience. Internet outrage and mocking memes have spread rapidly.

Disney faces immense pressure to curb this behavior immediately. But solutions remain unclear when social norms break down. The company may need to impose strict consequences, from ejection to bans.Rethinking Access, Staffing and Messaging

Moving forward, Disney must reevaluate its policies and facilities to mitigate public defecation and its fallout. More restrooms or timed entry passes could reduce urgency. Higher custodial staffing provides quicker response. And clear signage sets expectations.

Most importantly, Disney must reinforce that such conduct is unacceptable through assertive messaging. Though rare, these incidents impact countless guests and workers. Stopping the behavior requires raising social accountability.

While shocking, public defecation incidents reveal what happens when infrastructure and ethics fall short. Disney must lead by example to restore its brand, support staff and protect patrons. With some overdue improvements, the magic need not end when bodily functions call.