Delta Air Lines is revising its uniform policy following backlash over a viral social media post concerning Palestinian pins worn by flight attendants. Starting Monday, Delta employees are prohibited from wearing pins representing countries or nationalities other than the United States.
In a statement obtained by USA TODAY, Delta expressed, “We are proud of our diverse base of employees and customers and the foundation of our brand, which is to connect the world and provide a premium experience. We are taking this step to help ensure a safe, comfortable and welcoming environment for all.”
Delta Air Lines adopts new rules for flight attendant uniforms after Palestinian pin flap https://t.co/JqQwuGzT0I
— KFXK FOX51 (@kfxkfox51) July 13, 2024
Incident Triggering the Policy Change
The controversy began on Wednesday when a social media user raised concerns about Delta flight attendants wearing what was mistakenly referred to as “Hamas badges.” The post quickly went viral, causing a divide among users. Some defended the flight attendants, clarifying that the pins represented the Palestinian flag, not Hamas. Others cited safety concerns over the pins.
Delta initially responded to the post, stating, “I hear you as I’d be terrified as well, personally. Our employees reflect our culture and we do not take it lightly when our policy is not being followed.” This response received significant backlash, leading Delta to delete the reply and later apologize, acknowledging that the comment “was not in line with our values.”
Delta Air Lines adopts new rules for flight attendant uniforms after Palestinian pin flap https://t.co/OxTvDQFBsw pic.twitter.com/U33iHOIB0e
— Toronto Sun (@TheTorontoSun) July 13, 2024
Delta’s Apology and Policy Implementation
Delta issued an apology for the “hurtful” post, emphasizing their commitment to inclusivity and respect. Despite the apology, some social media users criticized the airline for succumbing to pressure and vowed to boycott Delta.
A Delta spokesperson clarified that neither of the flight attendants involved in the incident were fired, addressing rumors that had circulated online. “The photographed flight attendants were compliant with Delta uniform guidelines, and we’ve been in touch with them to offer support,” the spokesperson stated.
Additionally, the Delta employee who authored the initial reply about being “terrified” has been counseled and is no longer managing Delta’s social media channels.
Key Points:
i. Delta Air Lines has updated its uniform policy to prohibit employees from wearing pins representing countries or nationalities other than the U.S.
ii. The policy change follows a viral social media incident involving flight attendants wearing Palestinian flag pins.
iii. Delta initially responded with a comment that received backlash and was later deleted.
iv. Delta apologized for the incident, emphasizing their commitment to inclusivity and respect.
v. The flight attendants involved were not fired, and the employee responsible for the controversial reply is no longer managing Delta’s social media.
Fallon Jacobson – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
