Atlanta-based Delta Air Lines Implements New Uniform Regulations after Palestinian Pin Controversy
Following an incident involving flight attendants photographed with Palestinian pins, Delta Air Lines, an Atlanta-based carrier, has implemented new uniform rules to prevent a similar event from rekindling.
Outrage Over Palestinian Pins and Changes in Uniform Policy
After a passenger expressed outrage over two Delta Air Lines flight attendants pictured wearing Palestinian pins and referred to them as “Hamas badges”, the airline company has revised its uniform policy. The uproar that followed the July 10 post led Delta to ban its employees from wearing pins or badges that show any country or nationality other than the U.S. This rule will take effect from Monday.
Delta Air Lines stated: “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 ensure a safe, comfortable, and welcoming environment for all.”
New Policies Reflecting Current Tensions
The changes in Delta’s policy depicts the ongoing tensions surrounding the Israel-Hamas war, which has incited high-profile protests that have embroiled numerous college campuses. The flight attendants wearing the Palestinian pins were abiding by Delta’s earlier policy, which gave employees more freedom concerning uniform accessories.
Deleted Employee Response and Apology
Before Delta’s announcement of the new policy, an employee’s social media response escalated the issue, asserting that the attendants wearing the Palestinian pins were violating company rules and sympathizing with passengers who might be “terrified” by it. This post was later deleted, but a screenshot was captured and shared by the American Muslim rights group CAIR National.
Consequently, Delta Air Lines issued a statement stating the employee responsible for that post had been removed from handling its social media communications. The post also included an apology from the company.
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