Quinton Burns, et al vs. Seaworld Parks & Entertainment, Inc., et al

Case Background

On July 27, 2022, Plaintiff Quinton Burns and others filed a Racial discrimination lawsuit in the United States District Court, Pennsylvania Eastern, Philadelphia Division(Case number - 2:22cv2941). This case was presided over by the District Judge Wendy Beetlestone.

Cause

The racial discrimination incident at Sesame Place Philadelphia unfolded on June 18, 2022, when Quinton Burns and his minor child K.B., African American residents of Baltimore, purchased two-weekend admission tickets. SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment marketed Sesame Place Philadelphia as a family-friendly destination offering "exclusive Sesame Street-themed entertainment" and character Meet and Greets. The racial discrimination lawsuit became evident when costume performers, dressed as beloved Sesame Street characters like Elmo, Ernie, Telly Monster, and Abby Cadabby, systematically ignored the Burns family and other Black guests while engaging with white visitors and their children. Multiple instances of racial discrimination occurred in broad daylight during regular business hours. Video evidence captured several incidents of racial bias at theme park Meet and Greets, showing a clear pattern of discriminatory behavior toward Black children over different days. These acts of public accommodation discrimination took place openly, indicating SeaWorld's awareness and tacit acceptance of such practices.

Injuries

The racial discrimination at Sesame Place caused immediate and lasting harm. The Burns family and other Black visitors were deliberately excluded from park activities and services. The costume character performers fostered a hostile environment by refusing to interact with Black children while enthusiastical