The Chattooga County Agricultural Fair Council has issued an apology following an incident last week where an autistic child was reportedly denied access to rides because the required armband caused discomfort and was subsequently removed. The situation came to light via a parent’s social media post, prompting a swift response from fair organizers.

According to the Facebook post, which garnered significant attention, the child, who experiences autism, found the ride armband to be a source of discomfort and removed it. This action then led to the child being prevented from accessing the fair’s midway attractions.

Fair Council President Zach Hughes released a statement acknowledging the incident and the concerns raised. “We have been made aware of a Facebook post from a parent regarding their child’s armband at the fair this past weekend,” Hughes stated.

Hughes clarified that neither the fair council nor the midway operator was informed of the issue at the time it occurred. He emphasized that had they been notified, protocols were in place to address such situations.

“At the time of the incident, the fair council was not informed of the issue. After learning about the post, the fair council immediately discussed the matter with the midway operator, who was also unaware of the situation,” Hughes explained. “Had we been notified, the midway has protocols in place that could have been used to accommodate the family.”

Both the fair council and the midway operator extended a sincere apology to the family involved. “Both the fair council and the midway sincerely apologize to this family,” the statement read.

Hughes underscored the fair’s commitment to inclusivity and ensuring a positive experience for all attendees. “It is our priority to ensure that every guest at the fair has a safe, fun, and enjoyable experience—regardless of their needs,” he said.

The fair council also took the opportunity to encourage future fairgoers to communicate any issues directly to a fair council member during events, stating, “We encourage anyone who encounters an issue during the fair to please reach out to a member of the fair council so we can make every effort to accommodate and resolve concerns.”