Delta Air Lines is altering its employee uniform policy after a social media controversy erupted over two flight attendants photographed wearing Palestinian flag pins. The spark came from a July 10 post on X, calling the pins “Hamas badges.” In response, Delta has decided to prohibit employees from wearing pins representing any country or nationality except the U.S. This new rule will be effective starting Monday.
“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,” Delta stated. “We are taking this step to help ensure a safe, comfortable, and welcoming environment for all.”
This policy change comes amidst ongoing tensions from the Israel-Hamas conflict, which has stirred notable protests, including those on college campuses.
Previously, Delta’s uniform policy allowed employees some flexibility with accessories, enabling the attendants to wear the pins without violating company rules. However, the situation intensified when a Delta employee posted on X, claiming that the attendants with the Palestinian pins were breaking company policy and expressing sympathy for passengers who might feel “terrified.” This post was later deleted but had been shared by CAIR, the Council on American-Islamic Relations.
Delta has since issued an apology, stating that the employee responsible for the reply had been removed from their social media duties.
“This incident is an example of anti-Palestinian racism,” said Edward Ahmed Mitchell, national deputy executive director of CAIR, to The Washington Post. He welcomed Delta’s apology and expressed hope that this event might slowly shift the narrative positively.