Dominique Brown, a notable Disney influencer and co-founder of “Black Girl Disney,” passed away at the age of 34 following an allergic reaction at a Los Angeles event.
Dominique Brown was attending a holiday event hosted by pop-culture retail company BoxLunch in Los Angeles when she experienced a severe allergic reaction. Before consuming a meal, Brown had communicated her allergy to the staff, who assured her that the food was safe. Nevertheless, shortly after eating, she became ill, leading to a medical emergency.
Despite receiving CPR at the event and immediate intervention from medical personnel, Brown sadly succumbed to the reaction. This tragic incident was reported by PEOPLE and confirmed in an official statement from BoxLunch, expressing deep sorrow and extending condolences to Brown’s family and friends.
Brown’s untimely death has sparked a broader conversation on food safety, especially for individuals with allergies. Following her passing, a petition was launched on Change.org, advocating for legislative changes in California, such as mandatory availability of life-saving tools like epinephrine autoinjectors (EpiPens) in establishments that serve food, and training for staff to handle allergic reactions. As of now, the petition has attracted more than 18,000 signatures.
Dominique Brown was beloved in the Disney community, not only for her influence but also for her initiative, “Black Girl Disney,” aimed at creating a supportive space for women of color who are Disney enthusiasts. Her brother, Patrick Ramos, shared heartfelt words on her social media, noting the joy and community she found in Disney, as well as the deep loss felt by her family and friends.
In the wake of her death, various voices on social media have mourned the loss. Brown’s presence at the premiere of “Moana 2” shortly before her passing highlights the vibrancy she brought to her role as an influencer. The incident underscores the critical need for awareness and preparedness regarding food allergies.
Dominique Brown’s passing is a sobering reminder of the potential severity of food allergies and the importance of preventive measures. Her legacy as a community builder and influencer will continue to inspire, while her story fuels calls for improved safety protocols to prevent similar tragedies.