Ay Caramba: United Fires Gay Flight Attendant For Anti-Gay Rhetoric

Ay Caramba: United Fires Gay Flight Attendant For Anti-Gay Rhetoric

94

You know, I’ve gotta be honest, I’m kind of speechless…

United fires flight attendant following jump seat talk

A former United Airlines flight attendant named Ruben Sanchez is fighting to get his job back, after he was fired. The 52-year-old had worked at the airline for 28 years, though his career quickly came crashing down, when the company started investigating him.

This whole situation came to light after a redeye flight on May 31, 2023, from Los Angeles (LAX) to Cleveland (CLE). He had been assigned the flight last minute, and in order to try and stay awake while exhausted, he engaged in what he describes as an innocent conversation with another flight attendant, who shared his Catholic faith.

Since it was May 31, Pride month was starting the following day, and Sanchez claims to have remarked how Pride month is “a big deal at United,” and how the airline “has all these things about Pride, with the Pride flags everywhere,” and has “drag-queen DJs.” Here’s what Sanchez went on to say, according to him:

“You know, as Catholics, we’re not really supposed to be observing Pride. The church will never believe that men give birth, women have penises or that the church should bless same-sex marriages because marriage is a sacrament, and it’s not meant for two men or two women or three people or whatever.”

Let me emphasize that this is his own version of the “innocent conversation” he was having, which seems wildly inappropriate as a discussion while on the job and in front of customers.

An unidentified passenger reportedly overheard the conversation, and then complained to the airline on Twitter/X. According to Sanchez, the person who complained accused him of saying “I hate all black people,” and “I am proudly anti-trans,” which he denies.

Initially Sanchez was suspended with pay, as the company investigated the accusations. However, at this point the company reviewed his long post history on Twitter/X, which revealed that Sanchez had posted a variety of controversial things to his account, while also obviously identifying himself as a United flight attendant, with photos of him in uniform.

Airlines of course all have employee social media policies, regarding what they’re allowed to post. Admittedly there’s a bit of a grey area, but the issue here is that he was identifying as a United flight attendant while also having quite the controversial online presence.

United took issue with this, and at that point Sanchez was fired. The union refused to help fight to get his job back. Sanchez has now set up a GoFundMe, with a campaign to “Help Defend Faith and Livelihood from Woke Employer & Union.”

Sanchez posted pictures in uniform on social media

This flight attendant is also openly gay

Perhaps the most interesting twist to all of this is that Sanchez is actually openly gay, though it seems he’s considering going back in the closet.

Look, I’m not trying to get too political, and I understand there are gay conservatives out there. But most gay conservatives I’ve heard from identify that way because they like some/most Republican policies, and believe (rightly or wrongly) that the party doesn’t oppose their rights.

Sanchez, on the other hand, is openly against gay marriage, saying it’s not meant for two men or two women. It’s a little odd for him to argue that “as Catholics, we’re not really supposed to be observing Pride.” Dude, as a Catholic, you’re also not supposed to be gay, if you’re one of those people who interprets things very literally.

But it seems like Sanchez might be dealing with a bit of an internal struggle as well. Just this year, he’s posting stuff like this online:

“I came ‘out’ as gay & put my faith in the closet. Maybe now I should live my faith ‘out’ and put my sexual proclivities in the ‘closet’.”

If you think being gay is a “sexual proclivity” that you should put back in the “closet,” then, well… oy. I don’t fully know what his posting history is, but just looking at his recent posts, I can certainly see how they could be interpreted as offensive.

Yep, I love showing off our hot “normal gays”, like… Aaron Schock, who spent the early part of his career as a Republican congressman voting against gay rights, prior to sort of coming out, and now seemingly spending half his time at raves. Yes, keep espousing those good Catholic values, and recognizing the “good” gays!

Anyway, I hope that Sanchez gets the help he needs, either through therapy or prayer or whatever. Honestly, I respect peoples’ rights to their sincerely held beliefs, but if you identify as gay and view your gayness as a “proclivity” that you can just stick back in the closet, well, then, those are some interesting mental gymnastics.

Bottom line

A former United Airlines flight attendant was fired following an investigation that started after a May 2023 flight. The (gay) Catholic flight attendant was apparently talking about his dislike of Pride month, and about who should have penises, and about how same-sex marriage is evil.

A passenger complained, and United then started investigating. The flight attendant ended up being fired, but he’s now trying to get his job back, as he’s angry about the religious discrimination he faced. He’s also considering putting his gayness back in the closet.

The biggest takeaways here are simple. Number one, don’t discuss religion or politics at work, especially in front of customers. Number two, if you’re going to be controversial online, don’t tie the account to one that identifies your employer, especially if they have a policy on social media use.

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  1. Albert Saltzman Guest

    I worked with Ruben Sanchez, and I can tell you, no one at United is sad to see him go. He has anger management issues and always got into fights with other coworkers and passsengers. He fails to mention he was fired before for damaging a 1K's laptop in a fit of rage, and the union saved his job at that time. He has had many complaints filed against him by coworkers and the flying public, he's crying religious discrimination now because he has nothing else to say!

  2. Anthony Guest

    We are in a world that is moving to a new place. Norms and morals are rapidly changing.

    An 8 yr old kid in UK, puts something online and 5 police showed up at his home. That's true.

    Unfortunately we are seeing alot of fallout.

    In the 1980's a designer couldn't reveal they were gay or risked being fired. Gradually it became accepted, by 2000 in the fashion business, who cared, no...

    We are in a world that is moving to a new place. Norms and morals are rapidly changing.

    An 8 yr old kid in UK, puts something online and 5 police showed up at his home. That's true.

    Unfortunately we are seeing alot of fallout.

    In the 1980's a designer couldn't reveal they were gay or risked being fired. Gradually it became accepted, by 2000 in the fashion business, who cared, no one. Now United wishes to show something, but they fail.

    United should give it another thought, put him back on, maybe probation or whatever, but not to lose a job over. After all, Bill Clinton didn't lose his job.

    C'mon United.

  3. Not your business Guest

    So many wrong things in this article…Ben maybe you should get your head checked first. There are not a “few” gay conservatives. You just think everybody is who is gay is crazy and your definition of gay is self centered. I can have conflicting things going on in my life and that’s ok. I can be religious and sexually like men. You didn’t want to be judged years ago but now you are the one...

    So many wrong things in this article…Ben maybe you should get your head checked first. There are not a “few” gay conservatives. You just think everybody is who is gay is crazy and your definition of gay is self centered. I can have conflicting things going on in my life and that’s ok. I can be religious and sexually like men. You didn’t want to be judged years ago but now you are the one judging.

    The problem with minorities is they think they can impose ideology and ways of life on the majority. They do try but It doesn’t work like that and never will.

    1. Ben Schlappig OMAAT

      @ Not your business — Where did I say there are only a “few” gay conservatives, as you put in quotes? There are a lot of them in absolute terms, but they make up a small minority of the community.

    2. Not your business Guest

      Basically implied what you were saying, just like you cared to summarize in your response. The fact that all the crazies in the left are loud, does not mean gays in the right are the small minority. They just not crazy.

      Your assumptions and the way you write things are everything that’s wrong with all minorities and with the left. Fight for your rights, and then shut up. Nobody cares. Focus on your life. He...

      Basically implied what you were saying, just like you cared to summarize in your response. The fact that all the crazies in the left are loud, does not mean gays in the right are the small minority. They just not crazy.

      Your assumptions and the way you write things are everything that’s wrong with all minorities and with the left. Fight for your rights, and then shut up. Nobody cares. Focus on your life. He likely doesn't need mental help…and he got fired for being stupid and talking about something he shouldn’t talk about while in the job. That’s it.

  4. Fred Guest

    Isn't there some credit card offer that we can talk about instead? HR ain't my thing.

    1. NOLAviator Guest

      so then why did your dumb ass click an article that clearly talks about someone getting fired

  5. karzakan Guest

    Yes I agree with one of the contributers. Although I wouldn't class you as "racist", you do often come across as being quite objectionable

  6. Vinay Guest

    There is nothing wrong at all with what he said. There is nothing wrong with believing LGBTQ+ is morally wrong. We are supposed to celebrate homosexuality for one month each year while we celebrate mothers and fathers for one day each. With Trump's election, the woke mind virus is coming to an end, thank god. I'm glad we will be going back to some semblance of normalcy for the next 4 years. It's ok to...

    There is nothing wrong at all with what he said. There is nothing wrong with believing LGBTQ+ is morally wrong. We are supposed to celebrate homosexuality for one month each year while we celebrate mothers and fathers for one day each. With Trump's election, the woke mind virus is coming to an end, thank god. I'm glad we will be going back to some semblance of normalcy for the next 4 years. It's ok to disagree with someone's way of life and to be outspoken about it. When there is no moral compass in life, nothing is immoral.

    1. Michael Guest

      Wow, sounds like you would be just find be transported back to 1930’s Germany. Well, I got news for you: 49.9 percent of us do not agree with your warped way of thinking. And, I believe even for those who do support the incoming administration a significant number would take umbrage would your world view. Even your vaunted leader likely doesn’t agree: his pick for treasury secretary is gay.

    2. Daniel Guest

      You’ve sort of totally proven the point there. “Transport back to 1930s Germany”… well, aren’t we already there? The extreme left is calling for genocide in Israel. The progressives supposedly “support everyone and embrace their differences”, but apparently only if you support their very narrow views (see the issue there?). I’m gay, but I have huge issues with the LGBTQI++++ agenda. And I can assure you, plenty of others feel the same.

    3. NOLAviator Guest

      lol you think someone trying to stock a government with child rapists and pardoned convicts is normal

    4. Vinay Guest

      You should seek help as you are clearly suffering from the mind virus. Turn off your TV and attend any religious gathering.

  7. Tailormade Journey Guest

    Bravo to United for taking a stand against intolerance and ensuring their values align with inclusivity and respect for all.

  8. John Guest

    Absolutely barking mad, I am in the UK, here if are a member of a minority sect, you can be as nasty as you like, you are a protected species. If you are within the vast majority you are not allowed to even hint at your disapproval, and if you put your head above the parapet you get shot down by them all, and you are not even allowed to defend yourself, they will get the police involved and accuse you hurting their feelings.

    1. AaronJ Guest

      @John

      Having left the UK after brexit, I will take what you say with a bag of salt. You want to be as nasty as you want to be... you do you. Someone else will do themselves and may hold you to account.

  9. Watson Diamond

    The main guilty party here is the Catholic Church for screwing this guy's head up so badly.

    1. Daniel Guest

      By that same arguement, has the LGBTQI (have I missed any) movement screwed any heads up? I’m just regular old gay, but apparently that makes me a horrible conservative because I don’t want to lop my wang off??

  10. Ross Guest

    I suppose I should know from the uniforms, which guy in the photo is the subject of the post.

    1. ImmortalSynn Guest

      You can't figure out which of the two of them most likely has the name "Sanchez"?

  11. HoldUp Guest

    I’m only going after one thing and one thing only. That’s the statement that, imho, he the potential to turn folks off to anything else you say and engage in nasty commentary back and forth: your statement about one not supposed to be gay as a Catholic.

    Dude. Ben, I say this with all charity: Perhaps you could have a go at actually reading what the Catholic Church teaches regarding same sex attraction? Not...

    I’m only going after one thing and one thing only. That’s the statement that, imho, he the potential to turn folks off to anything else you say and engage in nasty commentary back and forth: your statement about one not supposed to be gay as a Catholic.

    Dude. Ben, I say this with all charity: Perhaps you could have a go at actually reading what the Catholic Church teaches regarding same sex attraction? Not “what you hear/have heard,” “what you think
    the Catholic Church teaches,” or most horribly “what you’ve experienced” in regards to the Catholic Church and those proclaiming to be Catholic (whether “for” or “opposing” you on this), but rather the truth. Would you consider that? Because the fact is, the statement you made is false and very misleading. I do, however, recognize that, in my experience, people don’t make statements like that about the Catholic Church without reason (oftentimes a really bad experience with an uncharitable or even flat out gravely wrong Catholic; whether firsthand or secondarily though the experience of a parent or loved one.)

    So again, perhaps take a moment to check your knowledge before making statements like that? Or don’t. You are free. But so are others that are labeled willfully ignorant. Peace to you brother.

    1. Chris Guest

      Calling it "same sex attraction" tells us a lot more than I suspect you'd like it to.

  12. Andrew from Yucatan Guest

    You know, people can make mistakes and have their believe.
    I think its too much to fire a person after working for 28 years.
    Where is the gratitude?,
    What happen to tolerance and understanding?
    Can they talk to him and issue a warning and ask Him to be more responsible in social media?
    I have the impression that airline management sometimes look for any excuse to destroys the life and...

    You know, people can make mistakes and have their believe.
    I think its too much to fire a person after working for 28 years.
    Where is the gratitude?,
    What happen to tolerance and understanding?
    Can they talk to him and issue a warning and ask Him to be more responsible in social media?
    I have the impression that airline management sometimes look for any excuse to destroys the life and future benefits of there employees instead of looking for a constructive relationship.
    What if He was the Pilot about to retiree??
    I hope people in a position of power have more wisdom in their decisions.

    1. Arps Member

      What happen to tolerance and understanding?

      Americans, like any other culture, are in fact deeply intolerant.

  13. mistymorninglandings Guest

    This all reminds me how tiresome, ludicrous, and passe America is.

  14. Azamaraal Diamond

    I was under the impression that this site wanted to get away from these kinds of discussions.
    To change the subject - Booked on an AC star alliance business class flight to BKK via MCT on Oman Air and cannot do seat selection on line or by phone unlike other airlines in the itinerary. Ben, any tricks? Need an overnight in MCT. Did WY offer anything on your last flight?

    1. Tim Dunn Diamond

      are you kidding?

      There are about 8 stories on the first screen of OMAAT stories that COMBINED have less than 2/3 of the replies as this story. At least three of them have ZERO replies.

      You might not want to to talk about weird stuff but plenty of people do.
      That's why Ben wrote it.
      Politics and religion included, even though Ben says he isn't going there - but did.

    2. ImmortalSynn Guest

      "I was under the impression that this site wanted to get away from these kinds of discussions."

      Where would you get that idea from?

      Look at the amount of engagement (or more specifically, "ad views" and "click-throughs") on this topic, versus the ones about Hyatt properties or Best Western rewards.

      It's not even close. So which one do you think is of higher (earning) value to the site?

  15. Antwerp Guest

    Somewhere between this and the Cairo Airport is sanity. I am going there.

  16. Alonzo Diamond

    It's limitless for what you can start a Gofundme for nowadays. 12k raised? Haha, quit your job and pander for money online.

  17. glenn t Diamond

    Obviously a guy who knows no boundaries, with opinions all over the place.
    No-one on board, colleagues included, is even faintly interested in what he thinks. He's there to provide service to passengers, thsts all.
    UA was right to fire him; pity it took them so long to suss out what he was like.

  18. Aisha Muhammed Guest

    The doxxing and posting of personal photos is *wildly* over the line, Ben.

    1. Ben Schlappig OMAAT

      @ Aisha Muhammed — To be clear, he was just featured in the New York Post and was even interviewed for the story and wanted it to be made public. I’m by no means doxxing him.

    2. Aisha Muhammed Guest

      Digging up old social posts and editorializing is ... a choice.

      Hear me out, Ben:

      You yourself have written about some pretty interesting, shall we say, things that have happened during your flying. I remember a distinct use of a hashtag referring to adult acts between gay men, too.

      Now splice that with posts from years later about your (adorable!) child and editorialize for a bad-faith audience. Surely, you can see where I'm...

      Digging up old social posts and editorializing is ... a choice.

      Hear me out, Ben:

      You yourself have written about some pretty interesting, shall we say, things that have happened during your flying. I remember a distinct use of a hashtag referring to adult acts between gay men, too.

      Now splice that with posts from years later about your (adorable!) child and editorialize for a bad-faith audience. Surely, you can see where I'm going with this (no really, I know you can).

      What I'm saying is: you're kicking someone lying down while adding fuel to the fire ... for which purpose? So there's some drama to talk about over dinner tonight?

      The added racist dogwhistle in the title is doing you absolutely no favors, either. Be better.

    3. Ben Schlappig OMAAT

      @ Aisha Muhammed — I see where you’re coming from, and I know you’re making a good faith argument. But these aren’t isolated posts. I’m not digging up stuff from a decade ago. This is the kind of stuff he’s posting all day every day, now more than ever. He’s not “lying down,” he’s continuing to double down. I could have just as easily included posts from him from this week.

      And sorry, but “racist dogwhistle?”

    4. Aisha Muhammed Guest

      Fair, Ben, and thanks for responding in good faith.

      I guess for me it's just ... what do you want from him? He's already fired. He probably has some of the most vile people threatening him with violence (which they do sometimes follow up on) right now

      So what is it? Must he be fired *and* agree with what I presume is your personal view, or? When is enough ... enough?

      ---

      The dogwhistle...

      Fair, Ben, and thanks for responding in good faith.

      I guess for me it's just ... what do you want from him? He's already fired. He probably has some of the most vile people threatening him with violence (which they do sometimes follow up on) right now

      So what is it? Must he be fired *and* agree with what I presume is your personal view, or? When is enough ... enough?

      ---

      The dogwhistle is the Ay Caramba. That's pretty standard right-wing dogwhistling directed at people with Hispanic names.

      There's no shortage of examples of controversy generated by this (and "caramba" refers to male genitals, which isn't example appropriate in this particular situation, either).

      Before anyone comes for me in the commetns: if you're having to parse out the level of your racism, you've already crossed the line.

    5. Watson Diamond

      Aisha, stop trying to manufacture controversy. "Ay, caramba" has been used for decades without any meaning behind it. For example, it's one of Bart's catchphrases dating all the way back to 1988. https://simpsons.fandom.com/wiki/%C2%A1Ay,_caramba!

      In fact, you're the *only* one claiming this; if you Google `ay caramba dogwhistle` this OMAAT article is one of the top links! Ay, caramba!

    6. walester Member

      Interesting. I took "Ay Caramba" as a metaphorical rolling of the eyes, as used by Bart Simpson on THE SIMPSONS. Bart popularized the phrase starting in 1988 and the show is still running today with Bart still throwing the phrase around. I'm guessing that there's a sizeable American demographic who can't even imagine that it might be "standard right-wing dogwhistling directed at people with Hispanic names."

  19. Charles Chan Massey Guest

    Just another self-loathing gay Catholic. Next!

  20. D3kingg Guest

    Reuben. Call me big daddy.

    Gay flight attendants give good service. Gay people are good tippers and many are rich. lol. And fun people. Ok. Party time.

    1. Pete Guest

      Personally I'd be happy to carry that First Officer back to my hotel room.

  21. Ash Guest

    I’ve worked with this person and he is less than pleasant! He wanted someone kicked off the plane because they were wearing ripped jeans which he felt were provocative and revealing…mind you this was a gay man that was wearing ripped jeans. He tried rallying the entire crew together to get him kicked off but all of us said it wasn’t a big deal.

    1. Aisha Muhammed Guest

      I'll take things that never happened for 500, Alex.

    2. Jack Guest

      Thanks for trolling, Aisha.

  22. Paul Durazopp Guest

    With 28 employees flying 3 times a week business class I don't need to fly United any more.

    1. notbad41 Guest

      Because United fired him or because he said what he said? I am confused on why you will not fly United again.

  23. Dave Guest

    If United has a policy about identifying your employer and posting controversial things, that should be what got him here. But is it clearly spelled out? And which opinions get your fired? What is offensive is highly subjective. What if his posts were aggressively trolling pro-life people, and he was advocating for abortion rights in the uniform. That's offensive to a large portion of Americans. Does that get him fired? What if he takes an...

    If United has a policy about identifying your employer and posting controversial things, that should be what got him here. But is it clearly spelled out? And which opinions get your fired? What is offensive is highly subjective. What if his posts were aggressively trolling pro-life people, and he was advocating for abortion rights in the uniform. That's offensive to a large portion of Americans. Does that get him fired? What if he takes an aggressive stance for or against any moral/ideological issue? Why are opinions on sexuality always the third rail?

    And I have to wonder what if he was Muslim rather than Catholic?

    Finally, I know several gay people who, irrespective of religion, don't believe in gay marriage.

  24. Miami305 Diamond

    " The church will never believe that men give birth, women have penises "...
    not only the church, but doctors, scientists, anyone with a brain. This is simply a fact. And if you disagree with it, no one can help you.

    100% yes to marriage (note I did not say gay marriage... two people getting married when both of the same sex is simply marriage!)
    100% yes to protecting all rights.
    100%...

    " The church will never believe that men give birth, women have penises "...
    not only the church, but doctors, scientists, anyone with a brain. This is simply a fact. And if you disagree with it, no one can help you.

    100% yes to marriage (note I did not say gay marriage... two people getting married when both of the same sex is simply marriage!)
    100% yes to protecting all rights.
    100% NO to all the homophobic, racist crap this FA said or posted or shared.

    He should be fired. While he has every 'right' to be ah homophobic racist pig.... the airline has every right to fire him.

    1. Alan Diamond

      Personally your statement "two people getting married when both of the same sex is simply marriage" offensive because polygamy is still illegal in the US. One should have the right to marry the person they love, which does not only include two people.

  25. Jim Guest

    A guy I know is a FA at a "big 3" US carrier.

    You would never have the faintest idea of that from his social media.

  26. Throwawayname Guest

    What does it matter if he identified himself as an employee of the airline on twitter or whatever? What are United, the thought police? Unless he was misrepresenting his personal views and claiming they reflect the policies of his employer, any employment-related consequence constitutes a restriction on the freedom of expression and a win for the intolerant.

    I get that it's not clever to talk about controversial matters within earshot of unknown customers, but...

    What does it matter if he identified himself as an employee of the airline on twitter or whatever? What are United, the thought police? Unless he was misrepresenting his personal views and claiming they reflect the policies of his employer, any employment-related consequence constitutes a restriction on the freedom of expression and a win for the intolerant.

    I get that it's not clever to talk about controversial matters within earshot of unknown customers, but there wasn't an animated argument or anything here, so I don't really see it as a sackable offence. If anything, United are supposed to be prioritising diversity, isn't diversity of perspective a robust driver of innovation for any organisation?

    1. Miami305 Diamond

      Not controversial... homophobic and racist! No one should have to put up with that crap!

    2. Retired Gambler Guest

      Dude - understand the constitution. Freedom of speech or expression is only from government intervention (like throwing you in jail for what you say). You can be fired or suffer other consequences for what you say. Also, companies have policies on social media. You simply can not identify as working for a company and make divisive statements. Regardless of what you think that reflects poorly on the company and they are well within their rights...

      Dude - understand the constitution. Freedom of speech or expression is only from government intervention (like throwing you in jail for what you say). You can be fired or suffer other consequences for what you say. Also, companies have policies on social media. You simply can not identify as working for a company and make divisive statements. Regardless of what you think that reflects poorly on the company and they are well within their rights to fire you for it. BTW, it must be worse than he states if his own union won't support him.

    3. Throwawayname Guest

      Have you also retired from reading comprehension? Where did I say that the employer acted illegally?

      I don't particularly care about the finer detail of the contents of legislation in various jurisdictions. The fact that something is perfectly legal doesn't mean it's not stupid.

  27. Tim Dunn Diamond

    This is the ONLY rule that matters: "if you’re going to be controversial online, don’t tie the account to one that identifies your employer, especially if they have a policy on social media use."

    speaking of politics, there must have been more than few earthquakes on election night when it "came out" that Miami-Dade County voted for Trump, the first time a Republican has carried the country in, like, how long?

    1. Tim Dunn Diamond

      carried the "county"

    2. glenn t Diamond

      umm..... no-one was "speaking of politics.." , Tim Dunn, except you.

    3. Tim Dunn Diamond

      well, yes, Ben was, even though he said he wasn't.
      same thing w/ religion.

      None of which changes that the US thinks very differently than it did just a few months ago. and that was apparent on election night.

      and Trump just nominated a high power hedge manager as Treasury Secretary - who also happens to be openly gay.

    4. henare Diamond

      And now we will see exactly how broken this dude is. This is Trump's "diversity hire."

    5. Tim Dunn Diamond

      henare,
      the vast majority of people in western countries don't care about people's sexuality. In fact, we really don't care.

      We do care if a person can do the job they are hired to do - regardless of whatever sexual preference someone has.

      Let's see what "trump's dei hire" can do. If there was a single reason that got Trump elected, it was the economy.
      Obviously, when even Miami-Dade County votes for a...

      henare,
      the vast majority of people in western countries don't care about people's sexuality. In fact, we really don't care.

      We do care if a person can do the job they are hired to do - regardless of whatever sexual preference someone has.

      Let's see what "trump's dei hire" can do. If there was a single reason that got Trump elected, it was the economy.
      Obviously, when even Miami-Dade County votes for a Republican president, assessment of the current administration is not great

    6. Michael Guest

      Exactly, that is why I am saying adios to this looney tunes state…..DeSantis’ rumored picks for Rubio’s replacement, should his nomination be approved, are absolutely vile, as are most of FLA’s state/national representatives themselves.

  28. Nick Thomas Guest

    "Dude, as a Catholic, you’re also not supposed to be gay, if you’re one of those people who interprets things very literally."

    You shouldn't make a theological pronouncement. The Roman Catholic church does not say a person cannot be gay. The Roman Catholic church says you can't act on that and engage in gay sexual relations. You have to be celibate. Other Christian denominations have a similar or identical teaching. Even very conservative evangelicals.

    ...

    "Dude, as a Catholic, you’re also not supposed to be gay, if you’re one of those people who interprets things very literally."

    You shouldn't make a theological pronouncement. The Roman Catholic church does not say a person cannot be gay. The Roman Catholic church says you can't act on that and engage in gay sexual relations. You have to be celibate. Other Christian denominations have a similar or identical teaching. Even very conservative evangelicals.

    Stay in your lane. Get back to travel and avoid the political and thelogical discussions.

    1. Miami305 Diamond

      When it comes to homosexuality, the pope said... who am I to judge?

      That should be enough direction for everyone.

    2. Anthony Guest

      Just like every pope condemns pedophelia and then prevents priests from being brought to justice.

      Show with actions, not words. Hypocrisy all around.

    3. ImmortalSynn Guest

      "Even very conservative evangelicals."

      Bullsh!t. Spent 40+ years in the bowels of deep South evangelicalism, and there's not a single one that teaches you it's okay to be gay so long as you're celibate. They teach you that you're possessed by a demon that grips your sexuality and has damned you to hell save for confession.

      Maybe YOU should "stay in your lane," because you certainly don't have a clue what you're talking about in that regard.

    4. Ben Schlappig OMAAT

      @ Nick Thomas — You can “be” gay, you just can’t act on it in any way. Hmmm…

    5. Nick Thomas Guest

      Just like there are straight people who are celibate.

    6. ImmortalSynn Guest

      "Just like there are straight people who are celibate."

      Yeah, and they usually end up diddling little kids, in case you haven't been paying attention.

      Being gay is natural, it happens in minority populations all throughout the animal kingdom.

      Being celibate as a form of self punishment or admonition, is not. Nothing does that.

  29. Taylor Guest

    This man's entire social media presence is dedicated to loudly trolling liberals, so it's ironic that he's now upset that this behavior has been yet another lesson in freedom of speech ≠ freedom from consequence. The type of person who behaves this way online is the same type of person who would make those type of remarks in person.

  30. Don Guest

    It's funny how everyone latches on to him being gay, and think this is some gay/anti-gay thing.

    Rule #1: Do not post controversial things on social media, while simultaneously appearing in uniform and announce who you work for, on said social media.

    That's playing with a lighter, while sitting in a puddle of gas. Anyone (co-worker, customer, boss) gets a hair up their a**, you've signed your own termination letter for the "likes" and "upvotes".

    1. Glacialfury Guest

      This. Don is totally spot on. It has nothing to do with him being gay. It has everything to do with the fact that your employer sets the social media policy. If you want their paycheck, you have to play by their rules. If you don’t, that’s totally fine too, just understand that there are real consequences in this world.

      You can’t break the rules and then start a go fund me when you’re...

      This. Don is totally spot on. It has nothing to do with him being gay. It has everything to do with the fact that your employer sets the social media policy. If you want their paycheck, you have to play by their rules. If you don’t, that’s totally fine too, just understand that there are real consequences in this world.

      You can’t break the rules and then start a go fund me when you’re held accountable for your actions.

      Again, I have no problem with his views, lifestyle and opinions. That’s not my business. My issue is that, I’m sure UAL has a social media policy that was probably violated.

  31. UncleRonnie Diamond

    “I posted something on social media and got fired…..” will be the theme tune of this decade.

    1. Jack Guest

      Social media version of the Darwin Principle.

  32. Sel, D. Guest

    OMAAT finally acknowledges Sam Brinton!!!! Can’t help but laugh at that face, maybe he works for Jaguar now.

    1. Pete Guest

      That dude was the ultimate DEI grifter.

  33. DHTinDC Guest

    Not sure I believe the passenger, too many gay men attempt to cancel other gay men just because they have a disagreement. I am gay and don't like Pride, gay bars, mostly because of the overt drug use at those environments I had someone report me as a "homophobe" to my employer because I wrote it on a social media site responding to a guy who thought the gay bars should stay open at the...

    Not sure I believe the passenger, too many gay men attempt to cancel other gay men just because they have a disagreement. I am gay and don't like Pride, gay bars, mostly because of the overt drug use at those environments I had someone report me as a "homophobe" to my employer because I wrote it on a social media site responding to a guy who thought the gay bars should stay open at the height of Covid. I ended up getting dismissed even though I myself am gay. I used my personal email address and the guy had to track me down through LinkedIn to find out who my employer was. What this passenger did wasn't that much different. A lot of vindictive gay guys are creeps that will do whatever they can, including making things up, to cut another guy they don't like off at the knees. I am not sure the details of the conversation and wouldn't trust the passenger. That being said, he shouldn't have posted anything controversial while in his uniform.

    1. Pete Guest

      This is so true, DHT. It's a common misconception that we are a sociopolitical monolith, when nothing could be further from the truth. This is also true of black people, Muslims, Hispanic folk, or any other minority group you'd care to mention.

      I am old enough to remember when the goal of "gay lib" was for us to be able to live our lives as normal people without anyone caring about our sexual orientation...

      This is so true, DHT. It's a common misconception that we are a sociopolitical monolith, when nothing could be further from the truth. This is also true of black people, Muslims, Hispanic folk, or any other minority group you'd care to mention.

      I am old enough to remember when the goal of "gay lib" was for us to be able to live our lives as normal people without anyone caring about our sexual orientation or "othering" us. There's no need for "pride", just be who you are. The vast majority of people just simply do not care anymore.

  34. Ken Guest

    That he's a "Jr." tells me all that I need to know.

    Poor Ruben here was never able to live up to the "Sr.", his supposed Catholic faith the only bond between him and his father while his own self could not be more diametrically opposed to that faith. He's now perpetually stuck between wanting to be his father or being different from his father.

    1. ImmortalSynn Guest

      Watching people attempt to amateur-shrink someone, based on information they don't have, is almost as entertaining as watching gay Conservatives explain why runaway right-wing policies won't affect THEM.

  35. Jake Guest

    Firstly, this is an extremely well-written post. Bravo.

    Secondly, it's sad that he (and colleague) didn't get fired for disrupting passenger's sleep by talking loudly enough to be heard. The average quality of flight attendants in North America is plain atrocious.

  36. Pete Guest

    Just don't discuss religion or politics at work. Ever.

  37. Howard Edelman Guest

    He can believe whatever he wants but publicly saying it at work and on a social platform identifying him as part of United, he should act in accordance with company policy, which he clearly did not.

  38. George Romey Guest

    Number one, everyone has the right to their own opinion and as long as it doesn't harm an individual it's not your company's business. Now admittedly discussing your opinions with co-workers is never a good idea. And this is what can happen, a busy body that complains to your company. In other words shut up and keep it strictly professional.

    There is without a doubt no small number of gays that are not into the...

    Number one, everyone has the right to their own opinion and as long as it doesn't harm an individual it's not your company's business. Now admittedly discussing your opinions with co-workers is never a good idea. And this is what can happen, a busy body that complains to your company. In other words shut up and keep it strictly professional.

    There is without a doubt no small number of gays that are not into the transing the kids. Exhibit, Gays Against Groomers. Enough of my fellow gay men have been quite strong on their distaste for "drag queens". The world is not one big happy and perfect place.

    Overall, while it was poor judgement on his part he should not be fired.

  39. SamB Diamond

    I hate to say it, but the logical next step is to become a right-wing grifter. He's already created a GoFundMe. There's seemingly limitless demand for minorities who are willing to sell out the rights of their fellow community members for a buck.

  40. Dave W. Guest

    "But most gay conservatives I’ve heard from identify that way because they like some/most Republican policies, and believe (rightly or wrongly) that the party doesn’t oppose their rights." I have not heard the argument starting with "believe." Instead, I've heard the argument that, while many conservatives oppose their rights, they believe they will not be successful limiting them through constitutional protections, public opinion, and the utter incompetence of the extremists.

    "But most gay conservatives I’ve heard from identify that way because they like some/most Republican policies, and believe (rightly or wrongly) that the party doesn’t oppose their rights." I have not heard the argument starting with "believe." Instead, I've heard the argument that, while many conservatives oppose their rights, they believe they will not be successful limiting them through constitutional protections, public opinion, and the utter incompetence of the extremists.

    1. Ken Guest

      I also think for a lot of gay conservatives they've already lived through immense intolerance, so whether or not the government is intolerant makes no difference from their already lived experiences.

      To people who strive to rid of that intolerance or have not experience that same level of intolerance, than intolerance in government may seem like a huge red flag. To people that have though - it's just more of the same and they've dealt...

      I also think for a lot of gay conservatives they've already lived through immense intolerance, so whether or not the government is intolerant makes no difference from their already lived experiences.

      To people who strive to rid of that intolerance or have not experience that same level of intolerance, than intolerance in government may seem like a huge red flag. To people that have though - it's just more of the same and they've dealt with it already and will continue to do so. How unfortunate.

  41. DenB Diamond

    His age is relevant. For 50+ gays it's not necessarily homphobic to be uncomfortable with same-sex marriage. His opposition is based upon his religion while many 50+ gays, including some sincere, credible liberationists feel that the whole "we're just like you" gay marriage fight was the wrong direction for the movement. So I'm cautious criticizing my gay brethren for opposing same-sex marriage. I also recognize that Freedom OF religion is the only principle that can...

    His age is relevant. For 50+ gays it's not necessarily homphobic to be uncomfortable with same-sex marriage. His opposition is based upon his religion while many 50+ gays, including some sincere, credible liberationists feel that the whole "we're just like you" gay marriage fight was the wrong direction for the movement. So I'm cautious criticizing my gay brethren for opposing same-sex marriage. I also recognize that Freedom OF religion is the only principle that can deliver my cherished Freedom FROM religion. Let's have some compassion for people who still love their families and still believe whatever hateful superstitious nonsense they hear from the pulpit.

    I do have one simple opinion maybe some will agree with: don't post about controversial stuff in your United uniform, you're asking for trouble. On that one, the guy was just dumb.

    1. ImmortalSynn Guest

      "For 50+ gays it's not necessarily homphobic to be uncomfortable with same-sex marriage"

      What crock of sh!t. That's that same mentality that says "yeah, my grandpa still calls people n!gg@rs because that's just what everyone did in his time."

    2. NOLAviator Guest

      there is no age pass for homophobia. u sound just like those people who try to make excuses for someone being a racist just because they are old.

    3. henare Diamond

      Eh. I'm older than 50 and I have no problem with equal marriage. It's not for me, but equal marriage is just fine.

      People make. choices about this stuff and these folks have chosen a different broken path.

  42. Arps Member

    I hate flight attendants who talk on redeyes. I couldn't sleep in AA Flagship First from SFO to JFK because the crew were yapping in the galley. I glared at them but they didn't get the message. No amenity kit or earplugs were provided.

    1. DenB Diamond

      Absolutely. I wish Canadian and American FAs would spend a month in bootcamp-style training, kind of a finishing school, run by a good Asian airline like JL, NH, BR. But for that, one would need Management who knew there was a problem. good luck with that.

Featured Comments Most helpful comments ( as chosen by the OMAAT community ).

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Watson Diamond

The main guilty party here is the Catholic Church for screwing this guy's head up so badly.

5
Charles Chan Massey Guest

Just another self-loathing gay Catholic. Next!

5
Taylor Guest

This man's entire social media presence is dedicated to loudly trolling liberals, so it's ironic that he's now upset that this behavior has been yet another lesson in freedom of speech ≠ freedom from consequence. The type of person who behaves this way online is the same type of person who would make those type of remarks in person.

5
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