Breaking: A demonstration at Cracker Barrel, which was held after kids with special needs were denied service.

A large number of concerned citizens gathered on a dreary Sunday afternoon outside the Cracker Barrel restaurant in Maryland, where a group of autistic and special needs children had their dining privileges revoked earlier in the month.

Protesters carried placards that read: “inclusion is a right not a privilege.” and “treat us equally.” Two of them were sporting autism awareness gear—rainbow puzzle pieces on tees and sweatshirts.

“Beloved, you are accepted and loved by God! Cracker Barrel can’t, why not? I read another sign.

According to a statement made by Superintendent Maria Navarro, a group of fourteen individuals—seven teachers and eleven students—from the Charles County Public Schools District were refused the opportunity to dine-in at the Cracker Barrel in Waldorf, Maryland, earlier in December. As part of their community-based curriculum, kids in special education programs went on a field trip so they could practice what they’ve learned and meet new people.

Students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and “significant cognitive disabilities” (DCD) participate in the district’s ACHIEVE and SOAR programs, respectively, at Dr. James Craik Elementary School.

“Treat us equally,” the mob chanted shortly after, and “our kids matter.”

Dozens more individuals, including parents with small children, had gathered within thirty minutes of the protest’s start to cover the block adjacent to the restaurant’s entrance.