Delta Air Lines has issued a formal apology after an employee’s social media post sparked widespread backlash and accusations of anti-Palestinian sentiment. The incident began when a user posted photos of Delta flight attendants wearing Palestinian flag pins, equating them to “Hamas badges.” Delta’s initial response, which was later deleted, expressed fear and concern about the pins, drawing parallels to security measures post-9/11. This reaction was condemned by the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) and other organizations, leading to a swift apology from Delta and disciplinary action against the employee involved.
The Controversial Post
The incident began when a user, @iliketeslas, posted two photos on social media showing Delta flight attendants wearing Palestinian flag pins. The post equated these pins with “Hamas badges,” a militant group that governs Gaza and has been designated a terrorist organization by many countries. This comparison sparked outrage among many users, who saw it as anti-Palestinian and inflammatory.
Delta’s Initial Response
Delta’s initial response to the post was through its official social media account. The airline expressed fear and concern about the pins, stating that it would be “terrified” if it saw a Delta flight attendant wearing a Palestinian flag pin. This response was seen as anti-Palestinian and drew strong criticism from the public and various organizations.
Delta’s Apology and Disciplinary Action
In response to the backlash, Delta issued a formal apology, stating that the initial comment was not in line with the airline’s values and mission. The employee responsible for the post was reprimanded and no longer manages Delta’s social media accounts. Delta emphasized its commitment to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment for all passengers and staff.
New Policy on Pins
In an effort to prevent similar controversies in the future, Delta announced a new policy effective from July 15, 2024. The policy prohibits employees from wearing any flag insignia except for the U.S. flag. This change aims to promote a safe and inclusive environment for all passengers and staff, reflecting Delta’s commitment to diversity and exceptional service.
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Reactions and Calls for Action
The incident has led to widespread condemnation of Delta’s initial response. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) and other organizations have called for Delta to address anti-Palestinian sentiments and ensure that its employees are properly educated about such issues. The Delta AFA union, which represents flight attendants, also criticized the company for the deleted comments, demanding a public apology, better social media moderation, and a ban on non-consensual photography of crew members.
Delta Air Lines’ apology and disciplinary action are a step towards addressing the anti-Palestinian sentiment that was expressed through its social media account. The incident highlights the importance of social media moderation and the need for companies to ensure that their employees understand and adhere to company values. Delta’s new policy on pins aims to prevent similar controversies in the future and maintain a positive image among its diverse customer base.