As much as I agree with the idea behind what this guy was saying, my unsolicited advice is that you really shouldn’t offer unsolicited advice to others on airplanes, especially with as divided of a country as we have (thanks to Fred for flagging this).
In this post:
Ford executive confronts Fox News watching passenger
Ford Motor Company’s Chief Learning Officer took to Threads to share a story from a recent flight, which is getting quite a bit of attention on conservative social media. Let me just share the contents of the two posts he published:
Elderly passenger on my flight from San Diego yesterday enjoying Fox ‘News’ for the entire ride. Deplaning and I notice he and his wife getting into their airport wheelchairs to be pushed to next gate. My filter was malfunctioning…
‘Love to see you supporting DEI.’
‘Not me!’
‘Yes – you. That wheelchair, and the human pushing it, are provided at no direct cost to you – rather by a subsidized cost attributed to every passenger in the airport. Provided to level the playing field – for you.’
Not all passengers need assistance. But for those who do – for whatever reason — the service ensures they can access the airport, navigate security, and board their plane safely with dignity.
The cost being shared ensures that the service is available to those who need it, not just those who would afford to pay extra.
This is a real-world infrastructure of equity in action: acknowledging that different people have different needs, and creating systems to support those differences fairly.
I agree with his point, but it wasn’t the time or place
Regardless of which way you lean politically, sharing your unsolicited opinions or snark with others on an airplane (or while deplaning an aircraft) crosses the line, in my opinion. It’s just not the time or place. I think that’s especially true for someone who is an executive at a company in a role that’s specifically supposed to be about bringing people together, and putting them on the same page.
Even if one believes the point is correct, you’re not going to change anyone’s opinion by trying to corner them like this. I think saying anything in the first place was the first mistake. Then the second bad judgement was bragging about it online.
Look, it’s one thing if you have an anonymous social media account, in which case you might not care what people think. But you know this is going to rub a lot of people the wrong way, and Ford’s client base isn’t necessarily particularly progressive, to put it mildly.
The way this is circulating on conservative social media, a lot of people are saying “that’s not DEI!” I think this gets at the further issue — we’re so focused on semantics rather than trying to understand one another.
To some people, their interpretation of DEI is simply giving someone unqualified a job solely because they check some box. Hey, if that’s what DEI were, then I’d be in full agreement that it’s ridiculous, and I’d come to your anti-DEI rally!
But the guy is right here in his message, it’s just that this wasn’t the time or place to share it. DEI stands for “diversity, equity, and inclusion,” and both “equity” and “inclusion” include making accommodations for those who need them, so that everyone has a fair shot.
He actually made the point really well… it’s just that observing someone watching Fox News on an airplane wasn’t the right basis on which to get onto that soap box, in my opinion. You’re not going to convince anyone of your opinion by trying to catch them in a “gotcha,” and it’s even unlikely to make them introspective.
It’s sad, because I think as a society, we have a lot more in common than we have differences, despite how it feels. But we’re so hung up on semantics, and we spend too much time just hurling insults and trying to convince others that we’re right, rather than trying to understand where others are coming from. I think 99% of us would agree that:
- Someone shouldn’t be hired or get into a school (or whatever) solely based on their gender, ethnicity, orientation, etc.
- Society should to some extent bear the cost of those who need special accommodations, including wheelchairs at the airport
Bottom line
A Ford executive bragged online about lecturing a Fox News watching passenger about DEI, when the man and his wife needed a wheelchair after the flight. While I’d agree with the guy that making accommodations for those with disabilities is a part of what DEI is intended to address, nobody’s opinion is going to change by cornering them and trying to convince them that they’re part of something that they have a negative association with.
I think saying something like this in the first place was the wrong move, and then bragging about it online showed pretty bad judgment.
Wow, so much hate from people that should be happy enjoying the freedom and prosperity to travel. Another reason not to be political in such a Forum but I'll weigh in since so many have. You can make a very weak argument that this is analogous to equity but it's actually part of the ADA passed in 1990 as a reasonable accommodation. Who isn't for that? So, the Ford exec started off poorly in trying...
Wow, so much hate from people that should be happy enjoying the freedom and prosperity to travel. Another reason not to be political in such a Forum but I'll weigh in since so many have. You can make a very weak argument that this is analogous to equity but it's actually part of the ADA passed in 1990 as a reasonable accommodation. Who isn't for that? So, the Ford exec started off poorly in trying to make a (misplaced) point and much worse, berate, chastise or otherwise shame someone for their viewing choice, let alone someone who needs wheelchair assistance. And then to go on social media to what, make yourself feel even more important in taking a stand on political views? Just an arrogant bully.
Learn the difference between ADA - (American Disability Act) and DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion).
Ben, I think you are way, way, off base on this one. Sorry, but the world has become so insane that the MAGA-verse has to put in its place, period….the times of “why can’t we all just get along” are gone. I completely support the Ford executive’s actions. Staying silent is a form of enabling this lunacy and , I applaud the Ford executive for exercising his freedom of speech. In its most basic form...
Ben, I think you are way, way, off base on this one. Sorry, but the world has become so insane that the MAGA-verse has to put in its place, period….the times of “why can’t we all just get along” are gone. I completely support the Ford executive’s actions. Staying silent is a form of enabling this lunacy and , I applaud the Ford executive for exercising his freedom of speech. In its most basic form DEI acknowledges that marginalized populations also have strong voices and accompanying rights in need of protection. And the dissonance of that elderly man’s rant against DEI in the context of needing wheelchair assistance needs to called out. Good on the Ford executive for doing so. And, IMO, please stop posting these type of stories. It just inflames the already toxic social media cesspool. I realize that I am adding one more voice to the conflagration but I am saddened by your view and felt I needed to chime in.
In general I agree with Ben's comment about time and place for comment. However, what the executive said on public media later on is his 1st Amendment right.
BTW, the whole thing about all the Trump actions being supported by millions of conservative Americans is the hypocrisy of these supporters who can't even admit they voted for Trump... The whole issue here is the large issue that we don't want to talk about and that is the white supremacy.
The FOX brainrot is strong in this comment section. MAGAts can't believe it's DEI because a white man was receiving it.
I’m not sure if the left thinks being non-White is a disability… talk about racism of low expectations.
Thanks Ben for this post I needed it. Pointing out how different sides of the political aisle generally define DEI is extremely helpful. As a more conservative leaning individual I definitely define DEI as someone at least in part getting a job based on ticking an identity box rather than merit. Hearing the different definitions on a travel blog probably makes me more open to hearing it than a more political venue.
If your interested in hearing alternative viewpoints try this one on for size.
The way I see it is that conservatives see DEI as a negative. People in receipt of DEI accommodations are undeserving and that in a zero sum game where someone more deserving is loosing out.
I see it differently. DEI benefits us all and it really gets to the heart of the difference between equality and equity. Let’s say you...
If your interested in hearing alternative viewpoints try this one on for size.
The way I see it is that conservatives see DEI as a negative. People in receipt of DEI accommodations are undeserving and that in a zero sum game where someone more deserving is loosing out.
I see it differently. DEI benefits us all and it really gets to the heart of the difference between equality and equity. Let’s say you are a disadvantaged kid, from a poor background, parents never went to college, but you’re smart. Sure you might get along just fine but with a college education you have the opportunity to do something more, create more, earn more, employ more people, pay more taxes. So I want to help that kid, society benefits, is economically more productive because that kid can realize his talents. I put in after school tutoring so he can learn the skills to make use of college, free school meals so that kid can learn on a full stomach, scholarships because his parents just don’t have money to spend on tuition let alone living expenses. All things the rich kid in the next suburb doesn’t need because their parents can provide it. And let’s reserve some college places for some of these rough diamonds because they have no model to follow, need extra support but can realise their full potential but starting from further back.
It’s the same with disability accommodations, would you rather have someone at home livening on government handouts or for companies to make reasonable adaptations and for that person to be economically productive and paying taxes?
In my own practice in product development, product management, I strive really hard to build diverse teams, Why? Because it’s more profitable, we build better products that more people want to use, want to buy. Diversity in my teams, reflecting the diversity of society, brings together different experiences, perspectives and viewpoints which means we can solve problems faster, understand people’s need better and build better products and above all, make more money.
DEI is about making sure the best talent gets the resources it needs to fulfill its potential, ensuring more people have rich fulfilling and economically productive lives.
The chyron in that picture is hilarious.
Surely the point is that you shouldn't hector someone simply for choosing to watch a particular TV channel? Sure, you can disagree with the politics of that channel. But free country and all that?
The arrogance of it is astounding - 'you watched a channel I disagree with therefore I'm going to give you a lecture...'
Next time I'm on a plane and see someone watching Titanic, I'm going to confront them about their despicable endorsement of oppressive gilded-age social class expectations.
Hm, seems appropriate to me. He didn't do it during the flight when the fellow might have felt cornered. We have to confront the fascists sometime- looking for a time to be "nice" to them is what got us into this situation.
Wanting to "confront the fascists" by telling people in public what they're allowed to watch, say and think. Ah, the American left never ceases to entertain.
VladG
Um...the guy never told the guy what he was allowed to watch, much less say or think.
Criticizing people for their choices is free speech too, whether ill advised or not.
"Um...the guy never told the guy what he was allowed to watch, much less say or think."
The guy gave a political lecture to an elderly person based solely on the news channel the said elderly person was watching. The entitlement is off the charts.
I'm with VladG on this. "Lecturing" another person based largely on the news channel they're watching is nuts.
I have FOX NEWS playing 24/7 at home and work...
And that's none of our business. I'm in my 30s already and I still watch Arthur and The Simpsons. Nobody cares.
Ben, you said you agreed with his point but it wasn't the time or place. Ok, when is the time and place then? IMHO the time to point out hypocrisy is when it is being committed. Just my 2 cents for what it's worth.
Imagine the level of entitlement to think you have the right to educate others on their political opinions in public.
These comments are wild as someone from outside the US:
1. Let's say DEI initiatives are generally very positive
2. Do you honestly think it's your duty to go out of your way to challenge anyone who could believe otherwise?
3. And do so in such a manner that involves you effectively just screaming in someone's face about how wrong they are?
Think pragmatically: you won't change their mind, you'll merely entrench...
These comments are wild as someone from outside the US:
1. Let's say DEI initiatives are generally very positive
2. Do you honestly think it's your duty to go out of your way to challenge anyone who could believe otherwise?
3. And do so in such a manner that involves you effectively just screaming in someone's face about how wrong they are?
Think pragmatically: you won't change their mind, you'll merely entrench their beliefs, now they'll go around telling everyone about that "crazy woke liberal" who verbally assaulted them in public.
By all means try to open a dialogue and bring people round to your way of thinking, but this particular example and those condoning it are part of the problem. Especially when you post it on the Internet as some kind of "gotcha" moment as the conservatives will see it as the exact opposite.
Ben, your political innuendo and dislike of the current administration are irrelevant to the audience you cultivated. Stick to mileage and travel.
Honestly, the backlash against the Ford executive is completely misguided. He had every right to say what he said — and frankly, we need more of this kind of pointed, unapologetic commentary. The irony he pointed out was spot-on: the same people who rant against “woke culture” and scream about DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) are often the first to benefit from services built on exactly those principles — like wheelchair assistance at the airport, paid...
Honestly, the backlash against the Ford executive is completely misguided. He had every right to say what he said — and frankly, we need more of this kind of pointed, unapologetic commentary. The irony he pointed out was spot-on: the same people who rant against “woke culture” and scream about DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) are often the first to benefit from services built on exactly those principles — like wheelchair assistance at the airport, paid for by all of us through shared infrastructure and collective responsibility.
Let’s be honest: the older, die-hard Trump crowd isn’t interested in nuanced conversations about systemic inequality. They tune out facts. They live in a bubble of Fox News propaganda, where empathy is weakness and complexity is conspiracy. So how else do you reach them? You don’t — unless you hold up a mirror in exactly the way that Ford exec did.
It wasn’t rude. It wasn’t inappropriate. It was truthful. And that truth stings because it exposes a deep hypocrisy. If that makes some people uncomfortable, maybe it’s time they sat with that discomfort instead of lashing out at someone who simply refused to let ignorance slide by unchallenged.
The real problem isn’t that he said something. The real problem is that more people don’t.
Kai
You are absolutely right, and next time I fly I am going to do the same thing. I am going to go up to anyone I see watching CNN or MSNBC and ask them how they can be so hypocritical.
They are flying in an airplane to a nice vacation meanwhile thousands of poorer Americans can't do that because they can't afford it. I will tell those hypocrites that they should donate the money...
Kai
You are absolutely right, and next time I fly I am going to do the same thing. I am going to go up to anyone I see watching CNN or MSNBC and ask them how they can be so hypocritical.
They are flying in an airplane to a nice vacation meanwhile thousands of poorer Americans can't do that because they can't afford it. I will tell those hypocrites that they should donate the money they spent flying so all those people who can't afford it will now be able to. All in the name of "equity."
Thanks for showing me the way
Doesn't matter what the topic was... He picked on some elderly handicapped people. Not very inclusive.
So what if they were elderly and in wheelchairs? Being old or physically impaired doesn’t grant anyone a moral free pass. If someone actively supports ideologies rooted in hatred, exclusion, and regression — if they enable or excuse a movement that undermines democracy, fuels racism, and thrives on ignorance — then they don’t get to hide behind their age or condition.
You don’t get to spew poison and then play the victim because you’re...
So what if they were elderly and in wheelchairs? Being old or physically impaired doesn’t grant anyone a moral free pass. If someone actively supports ideologies rooted in hatred, exclusion, and regression — if they enable or excuse a movement that undermines democracy, fuels racism, and thrives on ignorance — then they don’t get to hide behind their age or condition.
You don’t get to spew poison and then play the victim because you’re sitting down while doing it.
The Ford exec didn’t “pick on” them — he held up a mirror. And if that reflection is uncomfortable, maybe they need to take a hard look at what they stand for. Compassion doesn’t mean silence in the face of bigotry. And being “inclusive” does not mean tolerating intolerance.
He didn't "pick on him". He simply explained that the situation he was in and the help he received was the result of something Fox and probably he and many conservatives consider unnecessary. I consider it a minute of education, perhaps if he was lucky, enlightenment. He had no problem trashing DEI while being the recipient of it.
Amen, Right on on the "mirror" comment.
Ford's "Alissa Heinerscheid". This guy will be looking for a new job tomorrow.
If I'm on a UA flight with DirecTV, I watch Fox and dare anyone to say anything to me.
Wow, you’re tough!
LOLOLOLOLOL!!!!!1!!!!!
Why on earth would you proudly watch a propaganda channel that peddles fear, lies, and white grievance cosplay 24/7? Fox News isn’t “just another opinion” — it’s a disinformation machine that actively poisons the public discourse, spreads climate denial, demonizes minorities, and enables authoritarian thinking.
You dare someone to say something? Fine. Here it is: If you sit on a plane soaking in that toxic garbage, you’re not just “watching TV” — you’re choosing...
Why on earth would you proudly watch a propaganda channel that peddles fear, lies, and white grievance cosplay 24/7? Fox News isn’t “just another opinion” — it’s a disinformation machine that actively poisons the public discourse, spreads climate denial, demonizes minorities, and enables authoritarian thinking.
You dare someone to say something? Fine. Here it is: If you sit on a plane soaking in that toxic garbage, you’re not just “watching TV” — you’re choosing ignorance, endorsing division, and aligning yourself with a worldview that has caused measurable harm.
Being defiant about it doesn’t make you brave — it makes you part of the problem. A loud, self-righteous cog in a machine that’s dragging democracy through the mud.
So yeah, people should say something. And maybe more of us will.
Maybe you should try watching a movie once in awhile.
I dated a man for six years before we broke up. One of our greatest contentions was that he never wanted to "get down." Like, ever. When broached on the subject, he would respond with his favorite phrase: "There's a time and place."
Needless to say, that phrase still triggers me. Because—who exactly decides the place? Who gets to decide the time?
Not me, apparently.
Anyway, I'll get to this post. Ben appears to be...
I dated a man for six years before we broke up. One of our greatest contentions was that he never wanted to "get down." Like, ever. When broached on the subject, he would respond with his favorite phrase: "There's a time and place."
Needless to say, that phrase still triggers me. Because—who exactly decides the place? Who gets to decide the time?
Not me, apparently.
Anyway, I'll get to this post. Ben appears to be doing the same thing the passenger on the plane did: calling someone out. So this must be the correct place, then. But is it? The fact that the passenger said something face-to-face is significant—because that’s exactly what so few people are willing to do anymore. Speak. Outside. Where people are as real as they get. Instead, we cozy up in our blankets, drop our verbal nukes online, and run. Maybe collect a few likes along the way.
Ben says the man’s method was ineffective. But clearly, it did something—it triggered this article, sparked a reaction, and now there are 74 comments of discourse.
Interesting.
Sadly, providing a wheelchair has nothing to do with DEI. It is a service provided by the airline. What is wrong with this executive? Evidently not too educated!
Er, the I is for Inclusion.
Without legislation the airlines could (and presumably would) charge for the wheelchair service.
Note that the educator did not mention the Fox-watching to the educatee - he merely (correctly) deduced that the educatee did not realise that he was benefiting from an aspect of DEI.
I totally agree with Ben. If you could people people in a room from opposite ends of the spectrum and tell them they could talk about anything other than politics and religion they would find they have so much in common!
This was a lot easier before everything had to be political. Sports, Hollywood, the entire education system. Points and miles blogs…
Equating the ADA to current DEI objectives is crazy work.
Easiest topic, sex
In the Ford exec’s defense, it’s pretty easy to figure out the topic and tenor of the discussion on Fox even when it’s muted. I wouldn’t be surprised if DEI came up at some point during the flight. Also, particularly in topics like DEI, often the only way to break through to people who benefit from the status quo is to point out how they benefit or are positively affected by those policies too. The...
In the Ford exec’s defense, it’s pretty easy to figure out the topic and tenor of the discussion on Fox even when it’s muted. I wouldn’t be surprised if DEI came up at some point during the flight. Also, particularly in topics like DEI, often the only way to break through to people who benefit from the status quo is to point out how they benefit or are positively affected by those policies too. The reason the gay marriage fight was so successful, is that as more people came out more straight people came to discover gay people in their lives to put a human face on things (the flip side of this is also why the right has decided to so obsessively focus on a demonize trans people, because the more they pretend as though trans people don’t exist the less likely cis-people are going to have a personal relationship with a trans person, that and the fact that they are still taking advantage of the fact that many people’s feelings about trans people still haven’t evolved past the climax of Ace Ventura: Pet Detective).
The only way any change is going to happen is by making the abstract personal. It’s one thing to oppose “DEI” as it’s misleadingly presented by conservative media, it’s another thing to understand that the ADA is THE SAME THING as DEI and it emerged from the same impulses and faced opposition from the same people when it was passed as DEI does now.
Basically, I don’t think the Ford exec was wrong to make the comment, especially if DEI was obviously discussed during the flight as they took advantage of one of the few ways to meet people where they are on the topic. That said, it was a bad idea to brag about it on social media, unless it was their personal socials, and even then…
Couldn’t disagree with your take more, Ben. Any place where we have to interact is the right place and time to speak up for DEIA employees who are losing their jobs all over this country due to a rampant disinformation campaign. We need to have conversations like this everywhere and often. It’s not the Fox News viewers fault for misunderstanding. But it is all of our faults for keeping quiet when we know that more...
Couldn’t disagree with your take more, Ben. Any place where we have to interact is the right place and time to speak up for DEIA employees who are losing their jobs all over this country due to a rampant disinformation campaign. We need to have conversations like this everywhere and often. It’s not the Fox News viewers fault for misunderstanding. But it is all of our faults for keeping quiet when we know that more people will lose their jobs and essential services. Remember that these services are, in fact, essential.
Was it the most pro-social way to do it? Maybe not. But probably! As for wondering if it’s smart to tweet about it? It’s a way of fighting back. Those always come with consequences. The presence of a consequence isn’t usually enough to stop bad behavior. Why encourage it stop the good behavior?
You couldn't be more wrong.
For starters you've confused the law (the ADA) with an initiative (DEI). Secondly, you don't confront people in public over politics you may disagree with- especially old men in wheelchairs who are going to be scared, are unsure of themselves and are minding their own business. Third, DEI initiatives do not provide essential services- quite the opposite- when the ADA does.
Finally ask yourself if this moron would have...
You couldn't be more wrong.
For starters you've confused the law (the ADA) with an initiative (DEI). Secondly, you don't confront people in public over politics you may disagree with- especially old men in wheelchairs who are going to be scared, are unsure of themselves and are minding their own business. Third, DEI initiatives do not provide essential services- quite the opposite- when the ADA does.
Finally ask yourself if this moron would have "spoken-up" if the guy was 6'3 and built like a muscular Samoan. You know damn well he would have meekly (and wisely) kept his mouth shut and gotten off the airplane like the coward he is.
Live and let live for crying out loud.
DEI is not politics. It’s only political in the US - along with other things like vaccines, wearing masks and the water pressure in your shower. What a silly, immature country…
He picked on some old people. Nothing more. Nothing less.
Absolutely agree. Silence in the face of disinformation is complicity. We need more people willing to speak up—anywhere, anytime. This wasn’t just justified, it was necessary.
Hope he has a job line up for after Ford because with this blowing up I can’t imagine he’s still working for them a week from now. (Right or wrong, Ford doesn’t need the heat this will bring.)
Lol. They shouldn't have posted it online? Are you serious?
The reason they did it was so they COULD post about it online and tell everyone how virtuous and good they are!
I would rather have somebody brag about how virtuous they are versus bragging about grabbing women by the pussy.
But hey, you do you.
You are off base. When attacks are common place - EVERYWHERE bring to light the hypocrisy is vital. Our country is spiraling and you want to pick and choose when and where we confront the absolute bias and ignorance only feeds the problem. At some point we must address the issues otherwise you are practicing bystander behavior and allowing the louder voices win. And keep in mind these wins are not balancing a budget but...
You are off base. When attacks are common place - EVERYWHERE bring to light the hypocrisy is vital. Our country is spiraling and you want to pick and choose when and where we confront the absolute bias and ignorance only feeds the problem. At some point we must address the issues otherwise you are practicing bystander behavior and allowing the louder voices win. And keep in mind these wins are not balancing a budget but directly hurting people in the US.
In addition the response was civil, professional and an effort to educate. Which is not often the case from those against DEI. Too often people are adopting a position from a place of ignorance and only assumed a position due to propaganda and misinformation. So if not now when?
It’s always the time and place to call out MAGA.
No one asked the most obvious question yet? WTF is a Chief Learning officer
When you have hundreds of thousands of employees across the world that speak different languages, it's common to have a position like this that is in Human Resources or HR adjacent. How are you going to keep your human capital engaged and motivated? Why types of technology, training and resources are needed for factory workers, engineers, and developers working on self driving cars? These are some of the things this type of position addresses.
Not the job I want an any company looking to cut costs
Conservative white men are the most persecuted people in America today. Everybody else gets special rights and protections, we are silenced by the liberal coastal elites and the corporate establishment.
lol wut
You need to put a /s after the post so people don't think you are an idiot.
The ADA is a legally binding federal law to prohibit discrimination against individuals with disabilities in areas such as employment, public services, and accommodations. It mandates equal access and opportunities, ensuring the people with disabilities have the same rights as others.
In contrast, DEI initiatives are voluntary organizational strategies aimed at promoting a diverse and inclusive environment. DEI focuses on proactive measures to foster inclusivity and address perceived systematic barriers. ADA provides enforceable legal...
The ADA is a legally binding federal law to prohibit discrimination against individuals with disabilities in areas such as employment, public services, and accommodations. It mandates equal access and opportunities, ensuring the people with disabilities have the same rights as others.
In contrast, DEI initiatives are voluntary organizational strategies aimed at promoting a diverse and inclusive environment. DEI focuses on proactive measures to foster inclusivity and address perceived systematic barriers. ADA provides enforceable legal rights for individuals with disabilities, while DEI represents organizational commitments to broader inclusion and equity goals. ADA and DEI are not the same.
Thank goodness for someone who gets it right,
I really hate it when these posts veer political but - regardless of your view on DEI - the idea that wheelchair access to get on a plane is the same as, for example, corporate DEI hiring programs is a false equivalence. One can support one without supporting the other. It is not at all inconsistent. Clearly in society we make accommodations for people, the question is where you draw the line.
We seem, as...
I really hate it when these posts veer political but - regardless of your view on DEI - the idea that wheelchair access to get on a plane is the same as, for example, corporate DEI hiring programs is a false equivalence. One can support one without supporting the other. It is not at all inconsistent. Clearly in society we make accommodations for people, the question is where you draw the line.
We seem, as a society, to have decided that the ability to get on public transport should be equalized regardless of physical impairment. We are in the middle of debating/working out where we stand on hiring practices, government programs, corporate responsibility programs etc. It went one way for the last few years, now it seems like we're backtracking somewhat. I make no comment as to what I think the balance should be, but this is the current state of play.
It's an incredibly weak, symbolic, and petty argument to say that by supporting equal access to disabilities you have to support corporate DEI programs or anything else being dismantled right now. And it's sad that a senior executive who represents an American company feels the need to push an agenda like this both in public and then again on social media. Maybe understanding this false equivalence would help with more understanding and good intentioned discussion. I fear that whilst this person is in a position of power at this particular company, it'll be hard to make positive progress on both sides of these debates.
Sharing your opinion with a stranger might get you punched in the mouth. That lady could have hopped out of that wheelchair and whooped his ass lmao.
Also, his definition of DEI is hilarious. Just another reason why we need to stop mentioning DEI so much. People are triggered because the definition wasn't disseminated to the public properly.
I want to be hired on merit against the best competi
Sadly, we have a POTUS that inherited his father's wealth and is hiring his friends. No merit necessary.
The president’s January executive order specifically includes the banning of accessibility in promotion in the workplace (he refers to it as a DEIA policy). Many government agencies have removed training related to accessibility from their workplaces. For example, training around how to make word documents accessible to the blind has been removed as it goes against the DEIA ban. Any training that would uniquely benefit this passenger in a wheelchair would also fall under the...
The president’s January executive order specifically includes the banning of accessibility in promotion in the workplace (he refers to it as a DEIA policy). Many government agencies have removed training related to accessibility from their workplaces. For example, training around how to make word documents accessible to the blind has been removed as it goes against the DEIA ban. Any training that would uniquely benefit this passenger in a wheelchair would also fall under the executive order. Many folks don’t seem to be aware of this.
Go Ford Executive! Brag all you want...DEI is not just about a person skin color. DEI MOH awardee, DEI pilot, it's nonsense pathetic.
I strongly disagree with you on this one. Calling our blatant hypocrisy is always the right thing to do.
Right. Like he would have done it if the guy looked like Reacher.
You're the hypocrite. He spoke up to a old guy in a freaking wheelchair.
Some of us don't live fear based lives like you apparently do.
Reacher would be using a wheelchair?
No you moron Reacher would have not been in a wheelchair; he would have watched Fox News or whatever he wanted with impunity and cowards like you and your executive friend would have kept their mouths shut.
Lucky, having followed you for years and being a big fan...I suspect that our world views are probably identical.
Having said that, articles like this one bring out a wide swath of opportunistic meanness that seems to live just under the surface of many of my fellow readers.
I would ask... What good does this article bring to the table ? I am struggling to see any good here.
Thanks Oh yeah ! I am PROUDLY WOKE (if there was any doubt)
Confrontation brings engagement.
Engagement brings advertisers.
Ads brings $$$$$.
In this day and age, most of us wake up each day with a form of anxiety about how life will unfold, for us and the rest of our world. If the face of this uncertainty, many of us cling to dogmas that we think will help us make sense of it all. We are then threatened by those who do not share our dogmas. So we act in opposition.
Each act of opposition and...
In this day and age, most of us wake up each day with a form of anxiety about how life will unfold, for us and the rest of our world. If the face of this uncertainty, many of us cling to dogmas that we think will help us make sense of it all. We are then threatened by those who do not share our dogmas. So we act in opposition.
Each act of opposition and recrimination spreads more anxiety and suffering. Perhaps if we accept that there is no resolution to life's questions, it will become easier for us to become more patient with one another.
If you wake up with anxiety, you really need to see a shrink.
Thank you for the kind and empathetic suggestion.
Accomodations for disabilities long predates DEI. Few are oppposed to making sure individuals are treated fairly looking for equal opportunities and adjustments based on individual contexts. Many are opposed to trying yo do this on the basis of a group label with no adjustment for context nor circumstances. That this ablist biggot is leading the learning team at Ford means that Ford employees as a group are being taught (by forceful example) the wrong thing....
Accomodations for disabilities long predates DEI. Few are oppposed to making sure individuals are treated fairly looking for equal opportunities and adjustments based on individual contexts. Many are opposed to trying yo do this on the basis of a group label with no adjustment for context nor circumstances. That this ablist biggot is leading the learning team at Ford means that Ford employees as a group are being taught (by forceful example) the wrong thing. No more Fords is my life.
Who are you going to buy a vehicle from. As far as I know there aren't any carmakers in the world that are pro white male supremacy.
Tesla?
BMW?
Obviously the exec was triggered by the fellow passenger watching Fox. Then he saw a chance to get back at the passenger, and later bragged about it. Very low integrity for the big shot, and terrible PR for Ford.
Please! MAGAs are the most snowflake easily triggered people in the world. Only a MAGA would get upset that a trans would drink a certain brand of beer, or have a girlfriend who isn't a "blonde nordic princess" or by people saying 'happy holidays'.
I'd suggest that you stop talking about triggered until you get rid of the timber in your eye.
What bothers me the most here is that the Ford executive makes the "leap" that because the elderly couple are watching Fox News, they a) must be MAGA supporters and therefore b) must be anti-DEI. That's like me saying to someone on an airplane watching CNBC, "Oh, you must be pro-abortion". The way the Ford executive confronts the couple is also disturbing. Like he was baiting them for a confrontation. And then to publish this online? Ya, I hope they get reprimanded.
Let's call a spade a spade. If you watch lots of Fox News, you don't care that the current POTUS is a criminal. So, why should anyone care about being reprimanded for calling out Fox News hypocrisy?
You're right. And if you read the NY Times and Washington Post and watch CNN and MSNBC then you didn't care that they covered up the fact that Biden had dementia, was cognitively impaired and a handful of the inner circle were actually running the white house, not Joe.
@Mike F
None of them covered anything up. In fact, they pushed the same lie. But there were never any "signs" Biden had dementia. It was all another slice of BS pushed by Republicans to discredit someone they viscerally hate because he both tried to hold them accountable for their actions. If you supposedly cared about age and mental acuity so much, why did you vote for the oldest Presidential candidate in history? A...
@Mike F
None of them covered anything up. In fact, they pushed the same lie. But there were never any "signs" Biden had dementia. It was all another slice of BS pushed by Republicans to discredit someone they viscerally hate because he both tried to hold them accountable for their actions. If you supposedly cared about age and mental acuity so much, why did you vote for the oldest Presidential candidate in history? A man that couldn't string a meaningful sentence together if his life depended on it, and committed multiple crimes in office and after that would have gotten you or me a life sentence? Over a laywer and attorney 20 years younger with a clean criminal record?
Will Delta ban him for taking pictures of passengers and shaming them online?
Can someone please explain why the author of these pieces is sometimes referred to as 'Lucky'?
It is in the ‘small print’, contact email address.
"Maybe seat back TVs aren’t actually the best idea!"
Why? Because some triggered loon can't deal with someone watching a cable network they don't like. As usual, the ones who preach diversity are some of the most closed minded people.
We all know full well that DEI, affirmative action, or whatever you want to call it, isn't about having wheelchairs available at the airport for old people!! It's about giving preferences to members of certain races over members of other races just because they belong to that race. It's discrimination plain and simple, and it has no place in a equitable, inclusive society.
Isn't wheelchair giving preference to member of certain age over other age because they belong to that age?
Hypocrisy???
It’s also giving women a job over a man..
And we all know white men are the best….
Jesus dude. So glad America is going to hell right now.. time for its reset!
We all know you missed the point of what the ford exec was trying to say.
Look it up, race is only one factor as noted in the article
Did you know that veteran status falls under DEI?
There are lots of things we all think are common sense. And then these common sense practices become terms that are weaponized for political gain that uninformed people fall for.
So you admit that you know something that isn't true?
Bold
Rightly said, we really have a lot more in common, but we easily let politicians divide us...for their own selfish ambitions. Sure there are controversial issues we need to resolve but with common sense we can resolve most. For the other issues, we need to agree that we can't please everyone everytime, as long as we maintain and respect certain basic rights and freedoms.
He didn't seem to have a long conversation with them. He politely pointed out a concrete live example to someone and used his platform to share that example for others. Sitting silent and doing nothing will get us nowhere.
Lots of folks don't realize things until its pointed out to them. How many parents and family members of non straight children didn't understand until their child came out of the closet?
They weren't...
He didn't seem to have a long conversation with them. He politely pointed out a concrete live example to someone and used his platform to share that example for others. Sitting silent and doing nothing will get us nowhere.
Lots of folks don't realize things until its pointed out to them. How many parents and family members of non straight children didn't understand until their child came out of the closet?
They weren't in a doctor's office, or a courtroom, or at a funeral, or some other high stress scenario. They were in a public airport deplaning.
I have a feeling he may get disciplined in the office, but I hope not.
What company in its right mind wants to be associated with a biggot who confronts old people in public?
can't spell, very on brand
Tesla.
There are so many flaws in your argument.
Number one - assuming someone's beliefs by observing what are watching is prejudicial and bigoted to start. If you believe all conservatives are racists, can the also be true that conservatives believe all liberals are idiots?
Number two - There is a huge difference between accommodation requirements and DEI. You can interpret the E and I any way you what but accommodation LAWS have been around...
There are so many flaws in your argument.
Number one - assuming someone's beliefs by observing what are watching is prejudicial and bigoted to start. If you believe all conservatives are racists, can the also be true that conservatives believe all liberals are idiots?
Number two - There is a huge difference between accommodation requirements and DEI. You can interpret the E and I any way you what but accommodation LAWS have been around for decades. Obviously many valid viewpoints on DEI from all sides but I do not know of many companies that did not have diverse workforces in 2010.
Number three - and the most important - there is a difference between having an open dialog about difference in beliefs versus broadsiding someone with your opinion as fact.
You may not recall that the evangelicals of the time did all they could to defeat the ADA. Ultimately the ADA only passed because about 100 people with physical disabilities threw down their crutches and fell out of their wheelchairs to crawl up the steps of the Capitol in protest. Until then the ADA was headed to defeat.
Fast forward to today and it is the same group of people working hard to make sure...
You may not recall that the evangelicals of the time did all they could to defeat the ADA. Ultimately the ADA only passed because about 100 people with physical disabilities threw down their crutches and fell out of their wheelchairs to crawl up the steps of the Capitol in protest. Until then the ADA was headed to defeat.
Fast forward to today and it is the same group of people working hard to make sure that only they reap the benefits of society. In all the hubub over the D and the I people skipped right over the E. Equity is there to level the playing field for ALL and is not rooted in race even though many believe it to be so.
WTF does wheelchair service have to do with DEI? It's a service provided to mobility challenged individuals that are flying. Now whether the service is abused, yes that's a different conversation piece. Presumably it's more of an entry level position because there's limited skills that are needed.
I've seen just about every ethnic background doing that job-Hispanic, black, Asian, Indian, white, Eastern European. It seems to be a job that is physically challenging and with...
WTF does wheelchair service have to do with DEI? It's a service provided to mobility challenged individuals that are flying. Now whether the service is abused, yes that's a different conversation piece. Presumably it's more of an entry level position because there's limited skills that are needed.
I've seen just about every ethnic background doing that job-Hispanic, black, Asian, Indian, white, Eastern European. It seems to be a job that is physically challenging and with the rather low pay I would imagine not always an easy job to keep staffed. Not to mention candidates must pay background/drug tests.
The service is equity, it’s about ensuring everyone can access the transportation services they need without fear or favor.
Without this essential DEI service mandated by a piece of DEI legislation, the Americans with disabilities act, this couple who needed a wheelchair might have to walk to the plane, pay for a wheelchair or stay home.
Able bodied travelers are sharing the costs of providing this service because it is right and proper...
The service is equity, it’s about ensuring everyone can access the transportation services they need without fear or favor.
Without this essential DEI service mandated by a piece of DEI legislation, the Americans with disabilities act, this couple who needed a wheelchair might have to walk to the plane, pay for a wheelchair or stay home.
Able bodied travelers are sharing the costs of providing this service because it is right and proper that those who have disadvantages in life have equitable access to the things many of us enjoy and use without a thought.
White people need and receive DEI protections too. We all get old, we all get sick.
This is why DEI hypocrisy is getting out of hand.
When you compare with DEI.
Do it both ways.
On the other hand, the soon to be eliminated jetbridge Jesus on Southwest.
If wheelchair = equality = DEI
WN wheelchair abusers = unfair advantage = DEI conceal the unqualified.
It's broken both ways. If you're going to make special accommodation, then accept that it's discrimination not equality.
Having diversity is not always...
This is why DEI hypocrisy is getting out of hand.
When you compare with DEI.
Do it both ways.
On the other hand, the soon to be eliminated jetbridge Jesus on Southwest.
If wheelchair = equality = DEI
WN wheelchair abusers = unfair advantage = DEI conceal the unqualified.
It's broken both ways. If you're going to make special accommodation, then accept that it's discrimination not equality.
Having diversity is not always a bad thing. If you're going to give an advantage to the underrepresented that's a fair game decision, just don't try to spin it as equality.
Oh the hypocrisy.
@Eskimo
Please work on your reading comprehension. Ed said "Equity", which has a different meaning from "Equality".
there is a reason the regime includes "accessibility" within its illegal temper tantrum over DEIA!
...but i suppose some folks have to learn the hard way that when you gleefully feed other minority groups into the maw of the state, it's only a matter of time before a group you're part of gets its turn.
'Chief Learning Officer'. What a very Stalinesque sounding 'job' for a corporate busybody who pries into other people's lives. He sounds like the boring party-crasher nobody talks to.
Part of DEI is to punish rich people so that "they pay their fair share!" even if they are already paying more than is proportionate to their wealth and income. (While the top 10% and top 1% earn quite a bit, their taxes are disproportionately greater. For example, the top 50% earns 90% of the nation's income but should only pay 90% of the nation's income taxes but they pay 98%. The same with the...
Part of DEI is to punish rich people so that "they pay their fair share!" even if they are already paying more than is proportionate to their wealth and income. (While the top 10% and top 1% earn quite a bit, their taxes are disproportionately greater. For example, the top 50% earns 90% of the nation's income but should only pay 90% of the nation's income taxes but they pay 98%. The same with the top 10% and top 1%).
So if you believe "they should pay their fair share!" you are a DEI-er and likely a beneficiary of not paying enough.
Should DEI decree that 50% of airline pilots should be women so if there are not enough women, then hire more and restrict non-women to make that happen? Should DEI decree that 50% of gynecologists must be men and to take anyone, even without a MD degree if that is needed to fill the ranks with more men? What is the percentage of bisexual black men who are left handed in the population? Match that percentage for each job? Are there enough at AA and DL?
Let's just try to be reasonable and not biased.
"Should DEI decree that 50% of airline pilots should be women so if there are not enough women, then hire more and restrict non-women to make that happen? Should DEI decree that 50% of gynecologists must be men and to take anyone, even without a MD degree if that is needed to fill the ranks with more men? What is the percentage of bisexual black men who are left handed in the population? Match that...
"Should DEI decree that 50% of airline pilots should be women so if there are not enough women, then hire more and restrict non-women to make that happen? Should DEI decree that 50% of gynecologists must be men and to take anyone, even without a MD degree if that is needed to fill the ranks with more men? What is the percentage of bisexual black men who are left handed in the population? Match that percentage for each job?"
Really? That's what you think DEI is? Bless your heart.
Are you sure you want to take your blog content in this direction, Lucky?
This has only the most fleeting/thin connection to airplanes, travel, etc. and wades into highly contentious territory that I don't think benefits from being discussed here. Or at least, it brings subject matter into a usually entertaining and informative blog that isn't about the usual ridiculousness permeating our lives lately.
It's your website of course, but I wouldn't have...
Are you sure you want to take your blog content in this direction, Lucky?
This has only the most fleeting/thin connection to airplanes, travel, etc. and wades into highly contentious territory that I don't think benefits from being discussed here. Or at least, it brings subject matter into a usually entertaining and informative blog that isn't about the usual ridiculousness permeating our lives lately.
It's your website of course, but I wouldn't have sought to make this something I use one of my daily story slots for.
If you don’t fight what you call ridiculousness and I might call abuse of power, the dismantling of the US constitution, flagrant law breaking and creeping authoritarianism (potato, potahto), everywhere you see it then you are doomed to suffer from it.
+1
Can't wait to see Kid Rock using fully automatic assault rifle (questionable legality) shooting at Ford vehicles.
Sounds like two blowhards found each other in a public space and deserved it.
All the anti-woke/DEI/pick-your-ism-they-can't-define morons deserve to be called out for their hypocrisy and/or inability to see where they benefit from a public good they claim to hate. If the worst thing that happened to this Fox News guy is he got called out for being a recipient of a DEI initiative, he'll survive fine.
I just don't see what society stands...
Sounds like two blowhards found each other in a public space and deserved it.
All the anti-woke/DEI/pick-your-ism-they-can't-define morons deserve to be called out for their hypocrisy and/or inability to see where they benefit from a public good they claim to hate. If the worst thing that happened to this Fox News guy is he got called out for being a recipient of a DEI initiative, he'll survive fine.
I just don't see what society stands to gain from letting these people walk around with their "keep your government hands off my Medicare" and "Kill Obamacare, but not my Affordable Care Act plan" and "Fire all DEI hires - but oops not the veterans or white women, that's not what I meant!" nonsense. We're all trapped by the tyranny of this particular brand of stupid, so ... if people want to point that out where they see it in real life, I don't see the problem. Heaven knows they won't hear it anywhere else.
It’s not semantics when it’s a completely different thing/law. I understand the Ford exec’s point, but for having such a high-level job he/she is completely clueless.
The Americans With Disabilities (ADA) Act, which has been law since 1990, is what “provides” that wheelchair service for the elderly couple. Literally has nothing to do with DEI. Nothing. Whatever “DEI” is could be eliminated tomorrow and nothing would change for that couple when it comes to...
It’s not semantics when it’s a completely different thing/law. I understand the Ford exec’s point, but for having such a high-level job he/she is completely clueless.
The Americans With Disabilities (ADA) Act, which has been law since 1990, is what “provides” that wheelchair service for the elderly couple. Literally has nothing to do with DEI. Nothing. Whatever “DEI” is could be eliminated tomorrow and nothing would change for that couple when it comes to that wheelchair assisting them in the airport
It's literally a law requiring inclusionary accommodations for people who otherwise would have a difficult time being able to access something, thus providing an attempt at equity.
Sure it’s a law and the ADA was enacted well before the conservative media hive mind decided to make “DEI” its latest bete noire, but the ADA as a whole is a perfect example of DEI principles at work. Requiring accommodations for disabled people contributes to Diversity by providing literal access to jobs and spaces they wouldn’t have, Equity by allowing disabled people to have a fair chance of getting hired in jobs where their...
Sure it’s a law and the ADA was enacted well before the conservative media hive mind decided to make “DEI” its latest bete noire, but the ADA as a whole is a perfect example of DEI principles at work. Requiring accommodations for disabled people contributes to Diversity by providing literal access to jobs and spaces they wouldn’t have, Equity by allowing disabled people to have a fair chance of getting hired in jobs where their disability wouldn’t pose a problem or where a not too onerous workaround exists, and Inclusion by providing resources so that disabled people aren’t set apart from the rest of the group. Also, note that the ADA was heavily opposed by many of the same forces that oppose DEI now, despite it now being seen as sacrosanct. The impulse and motivation behind the ADA and DEI are one and the same, which is why Trump’s EO’s about DEI use the term DEIA, to include accessibility as well.
For a real world example of how DEI practices are often demonstrably beneficial to the bottom line from a business perspective similar to the ADA, look at a DEI initiative my employer recently put in place. My employer is a major food distributor, often working with small mom and pop restaurants with owners from various backgrounds. We recently lead a pilot program at a few sites where we actively tried to recruit people from certain backgrounds so that our sales team at those sites more accurately reflected the backgrounds of our customer base in that area. From our end, the push was on increasing the applicant base from those communities to get more qualified applicants, not in lowering hiring standards (we are constantly in need of competent sales reps, getting hired is more about meeting certain qualifications and standards than being the absolute best applicant, whatever that means). We succeeded in getting more qualified applicants and the results are that we have had more success in signing and retaining clients from those backgrounds compared to our local competitors and past performance at a minimal cost If I were a major shareholder/board member of my employer, I would be angry if they stopped this initiative because Trump and his goons decided it was “too woke.”
Well put with the example of wheelchairs as an equity initiative, but I agree not the time or place. Not the least of which you probably won't convince elderly people of anything that goes against their "knowledge", no matter what side of the aisle they're on.
At least the passenger had a choice Fox or CNN in the UK we can only get CNBC and CNN on satellite and cable! Comcast control what we watch on this side of the pond.
Fox News disappeared in the UK because
- it attracted a tiny amount of viewers
- it was getting reprimanded by the regulator for biased and inaccurate content
Who controls the sat feeds… Comcast who notified subscribers Comcast!
You live in England but still don't know the difference between countable and uncountable nouns. It's "number" of viewers.
Duh ? As well as BBC, channel 4, ITV, we have access to dozens more channels here. If you’re low IQ you can access American channels including fox. There are also other non English language channels.
Free to air right leaning US news channels on non streaming services! Mmmm
Get a VPN and watch anything you like on a computer.
Credit …. those who have a modicum of IT knowledge can access almost any digital news or TV program. Terrestrial TV, satellite and cable, etc, are being superseded by digital media free or subscription services.
A VPN and internet connection feeding a digital TV, allows access from anywhere on the planet.
The Biased Broadcasting Corporation, etc, are dead dinosaurs broadcasting to the unaware.
The tariffs clearly aren’t high enough for Ford.
So you want to punish those who exercise free speach? How unamerican.
There's free speech and there's being an asshole. What he did was the latter and if he had said it to me yes would have been punished.
I watch whatever I want on the IFE whether it be FOX, CNN, ABC, NHK, BBC, KFC, BET, or whatever acronym you can think of and leave me be. It's none of your business what I watch and vice versa.
Have a blessed day.
Airlines should be fined if they don't have a moving map and something like United's Channel 9.
Delta can't be a premium airline without Channel 9!
100%. Live and let live.