United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby has faced criticism after photos of him in drag surfaced, sparking controversy
The images were shared on Libs of TikTok’s X feed on January 15, with claims that United Airlines had shifted its focus to include and sponsor drag shows in its business.
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby photos in drag go viral on Twitter/X
This is Scott Kirby, the Drag Queen CEO of United Airlines pic.twitter.com/xsgnpDkWBS
— Unlimited L's (@unlimited_ls) January 15, 2024
Kirby Discussed Implementation of DEI
In a related development, the group posted a video interview, where Kirby discussed the implementation of the company’s DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) program.
The 56-year-old CEO stated that they aimed for women and people of color to constitute 50% of their workforce, revealing that currently, only 19% of their pilots fit this criteria.
Despite this, Kirby asserted that United Airlines had the highest percentage of people of color or women among pilots compared to other airlines. Kirby expressed pride in the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion campaign at United Airlines in the video, but it received criticism from netizens.
Netizens Argued About DEI Program
Some argued that DEI programs in corporate settings led to the hiring of inefficient individuals, particularly raising concerns in the aviation industry about potential risks to passenger and crew safety. The revelation of photos showing Kirby in drag further fueled the controversy.
Critics in the comment section of Libs of TikTok questioned the appropriateness of such activities in the workplace, suggesting that if Kirby wanted to engage in drag, he should do so outside of the professional setting.
Speculations arose about Kirby himself being hired under a DEI program, leading some to call for his termination. United Airlines also faced backlash for its hiring practices based on the diversity program.
About Scott Kirby
Scott Kirby’s professional background includes serving as the president of United Airlines from 2016 to 2020, where he played a crucial role in marketing, sales, operations, network planning, revenue management, and alliances.
He contributed to a cultural transformation within the company and implemented its strategic growth plan. Kirby became CEO of United Airlines in May 2020, following his announcement in December 2019.
For those unfamiliar, John Scott Kirby, born on August 13, 1967, is an American executive currently serving as the CEO of United Airlines. Prior to this role, he held leadership positions at US Airways and American Airlines.
Kirby’s educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in computer science and operations research from the United States Air Force Academy and a Master of Science degree in operations research from George Washington University.
This is Scott Kirby, the CEO of @united. He likes to dress up in drag. United hired a drag queen to be their CEO and now United has turned their focus to incorporating drag into their business and sponsoring drag shows. https://t.co/Hhzd5o6SyN pic.twitter.com/9tqkjTfVvs
— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) January 15, 2024
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