“And please feel free to repost it. In fact, give me my money back.”
Sesame Place Philadelphia initially issued a statement on Monday saying:
“Our brand, our park and our employees support inclusion and equality in all forms. This is Sesame Place, and we do not tolerate behavior in our parks that is contrary to this commitment. We also are, and always have been, we are committed to ensuring that every family and every child has the best possible experience at our parks and we are incredibly disappointed when this is not the case.”
After the video began gaining traction on social media, the theme park released a follow-up statement Monday night saying:
“We sincerely apologize to the family for their experience at our park on Saturday. We know it’s not okay. We’re taking actions to make it better. We’re committed to making it right. We’ll be conducting training for our employees so they have a better understanding. we recognize and offer our guests an inclusive, fair and fun experience.”
“For over 40 years Sesame Place has worked to champion the values of respect, inclusion and belonging. We are committed to doing a better job of making children and families feel special, seen and included when they come to the parks us.”
CNN has reached out to the girls’ mother for comment.
The video has gone viral and has sparked outrage, including from Destiny’s Child singer Kelly Rowland, over the different treatment.
Rowland reposted the video her mother posted to her Instagram story, writing that the incident had her freaking out.
“So if it was me, this whole parade would’ve been on fire,” Rowland said in her Instagram story video. “Are you serious? You’re not going to talk to my child? And did you see the baby’s face at the end? The little one in pink? She deserves an explanation!”
Online, other entertainers, activists and social media users expressed their outrage at the theme park incident.
Raymond Santana, an activist and one of the five members of the Exonerated Five, reposted a video of the incident on his Instagram along with Rowland’s comment, writing “I’m sorry but this park will never take my money…yeah you are #girldad. I definitely took it personally.”
Comedian DL Hughley tweeted: “It’s not shocking when someone in a costume at #SesamePlace acts racist! Why do you think they’re wearing hoodies?? #TeamDl”
