Lamine Yamal in focus: person with dwarfism, hired by the Barcelona star, defends dignity and professional freedom

After criticism from advocacy groups, one of the entertainers at the Barcelona star’s birthday speaks out: “Let us work in peace.”

A storm of controversy erupted around Lamine Yamal, FC Barcelona’s rising star, following his 18th birthday celebration, where entertainers with dwarfism were hired as part of the event. While advocacy groups labeled the setup as exploitative and undignified, one of the four professionals hired has spoken out in strong defense of their work and freedom of choice.

“We are not humiliated — we’re professionals doing our job”

In an interview with Catalan radio station RAC1, one of the entertainers  a person with dwarfism directly addressed the backlash:

“Let us work in peace. We are normal people who do what we want to do in a completely legal way.”

According to him, the event included typical party roles like handing out drinks, dancing, performing magic tricks, and interacting with guests:

“At no point did they humiliate us. Everyone had a great time. It was dignified work.”

ADEE Threatens Legal Action, But Entertainers Push Back

The controversy escalated when ADEE (Association of People with Achondroplasia and Other Skeletal Dysplasias with Dwarfism) publicly condemned the party. The group announced it will file a formal complaint with the Spanish Public Prosecutor’s Office, claiming the event violated the dignity of people with disabilities.

They also demanded action from Spain’s Ministry of Social Rights and the Hate Crimes Office. But for the entertainer who came forward, the group’s actions feel out of touch:

“They’ve been harming us for years. They want to ban work we enjoy. And they’ve never once offered us jobs or courses.”

“They don’t ask what we want they just speak on our behalf.”

The Bigger Debate: Protection or Overreach?

This story opens up a wider conversation about inclusion, autonomy, and dignity. While advocacy groups argue for safeguards, professionals working in entertainment push for recognition of their freedom and voice.

“If this were anyone else’s birthday, nobody would care. But because it’s Yamal, it’s suddenly a scandal.”

The performer ended with a firm message:

“Inclusion can’t come at the cost of our freedom. No one forced us to be there. We chose this work  and we’re proud of it.”