A Spanish disability advocacy organization has strongly criticized the reported hiring of individuals with dwarfism as entertainment during Barcelona football sensation Lamine Yamal’s recent 18th birthday celebration, promising legal action over what it calls a deeply discriminatory act.

The Association for People with Achondroplasia and Other Skeletal Dysplasias (ADEE) issued a statement denouncing the incident, calling it a violation of Spain’s disability rights legislation. The law explicitly prohibits using individuals with disabilities in performances or events that degrade or ridicule them.

“It’s unacceptable that in the 21st century, people with dwarfism are still being used as entertainment, especially at events involving public figures,” said ADEE President Carolina Puente. “The dignity and rights of our community cannot be a source of amusement under any circumstance.”

The high-profile party, held Saturday, featured several celebrities including popular music artists Bizarrap, Bad Gyal, and Quevedo, alongside Yamal’s FC Barcelona teammates and online influencers. While the footballer has yet to issue a public statement, a short video shared on his Instagram did not visibly include any individuals with dwarfism, focusing instead on scenes of poker, roulette, and the “Italian gangster”-themed ambiance.

Yamal, who played a key role in Spain’s recent UEFA European Championship victory and has enjoyed a breakout season with Barca—winning LaLiga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Supercup—has not responded to media inquiries on the matter.

The ADEE’s response has reignited public debate around the ethical responsibilities of celebrities and the need for greater awareness and respect for people with disabilities in all areas of society.