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Delta Airlines implements US-only flag policy on uniforms after backlash over Palestine pins

July 15, 2024 at 1:22 pm

Delta Airlines plane [Andrei Dimofte/Wikipedia]

Delta Airlines has announced a new policy allowing only US flags on uniforms following backlash over its response to an X user who described Palestine flag pins worn by staff as “Hamas badges”.

The airline confirmed in a statement that the policy will take effect on 15 July. This decision came after a social media exchange in which Delta’s account responded to the complaint about flight attendants displaying the Palestinian flag on their uniforms.

The same user tweeted on Tuesday: “Since 2001 we take our shoes off in every airport because of a terrorist attack in US soil. Now imagine getting into a Delta flight and seeing workers with Hamas badges in the air. What do you do?”

Delta’s X account responded in a tweet, which was later deleted: “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.”

In response, the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) denounced the airline’s “racist anti-Palestinian” tweet and demanded an apology.

Edward Ahmed Mitchell, CAIR’s national deputy director, wrote: “Whether this racist post on Delta’s X account was approved or unauthorised, Delta must apologise and take steps to educate its employees about this type of dangerous anti-Palestinian racism.”

“Bigotry against Palestinian-Americans is absolutely out of control in workplaces and at schools – and it must stop.”

In response to the backlash, Delta Air Lines apologised on X, stating that it “strives for an environment of inclusivity and respect for all.” The airline also mentioned that the employee responsible “no longer supports Delta’s social channels.”

“On Wednesday, we removed a reply that was not in line with our values. We strive for an environment of inclusivity and respect for all, in our communities and our planes. The employee responsible no longer supports Delta’s social channels. We apologise for this hurtful post,” the airline’s statement read.

According to CNN, the two Delta employees seen wearing Palestine flag pins will continue working for the airline, as they were in compliance with the existing uniform policy.

However, following a policy change, only US flag pins will be allowed on uniforms. Previously, employees could wear pins representing various countries and nationalities.

“We are taking this step to help ensure a safe, comfortable, and welcoming environment for all. 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,” the airline said.

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