The Untold Story Of Scott Kirby And The Drag Queen Event That United Us All

In the bustling world of corporate America, leadership often comes with a certain expectation of conservatism. But in 2020, Scott Kirby, CEO of United Airlines, dared to break the mold in a way that resonated with millions and brought a spark of humanity into a year marked by the global health crisis. Here's the untold story behind Scott Kirby and the drag queen event that transcended typical corporate interactions.

## The Announcement That Shook the Internet 📣



When Scott Kirby took the helm as CEO of United Airlines in 2020, expectations were high, especially in the wake of a global economic downturn due to the ongoing pandemic. However, his actions in the summer of that year were unexpected and stirred a wave of both support and criticism.

Kirby announced via LinkedIn that United Airlines would sponsor RuPaul’s DragCon LA 2020, a convention celebrating drag culture. This move was a clear endorsement of diversity, equality, and inclusiveness—a statement many did not see coming from a major airline.

### What Led to This Decision? 🤔

Kirby’s decision didn't come out of the blue. He has a history of championing inclusivity. Earlier in his tenure, he had established United Airlines' first-ever Pride flight, staffed and managed entirely by United's Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Allies (LGBT+) employees. 

This commitment to diversity was deeply personal for Kirby, whose own family members identify as part of the LGBT+ community. His decision was:

- A reflection of his personal values.
- A stand against discrimination within the aviation industry.
- An attempt to uplift employee morale during tough times.

## The DragCon Event: A Celebration Amidst Crisis 🎉



Due to the global health crisis, DragCon 2020 was unlike any other. It transitioned to an online format, yet it lost none of its vibrancy. United Airlines set up a virtual booth where participants could engage with the brand, learn about diversity initiatives, and enjoy drag performances. 

### Highlights of the Virtual Event 🌈

- **Drag Queen Shows:** Performances from stars like Trixie Mattel and Bob the Drag Queen, bringing joy in a time when gatherings were impossible.
- **Diversity Workshops:** Sessions focused on allyship, representation in media, and the importance of inclusivity in corporate America.
- **United’s Commitment:** A pledge to continue supporting diversity and inclusion, not just as a statement but as actionable steps within the company's culture.

📢 Note: This event wasn't just about entertainment. It was a strategic move to position United Airlines as a leader in corporate social responsibility.

## The Reaction From All Angles 🗣️



The sponsorship sparked a significant discourse online and in the media:

- **LGBT+ Community:** This was a monumental moment of allyship, showing that corporate giants could support and celebrate their identities.
- **Conservatives:** Some criticized the move as pandering or inappropriate corporate involvement in cultural issues.
- **Business Analysts:** Many saw it as a smart marketing move, aligning the brand with progressive values that resonate with younger demographics.
  
### Navigating the Storm 🌪️

Kirby's response to the backlash was measured:

- He reaffirmed United's commitment to diversity.
- He highlighted the positive business impact through increased employee satisfaction and customer loyalty.
- He expressed empathy for differing viewpoints but maintained the stance of inclusivity.

## The Long-Term Impact on United Airlines 🛫



The drag queen event was more than a one-off; it set the tone for how United Airlines would navigate future issues:

- **Employee Inclusion:** There was an uptick in diversity hires and promotions within United, demonstrating a commitment to diversity at every level.
- **Corporate Culture:** The event helped foster a more inclusive corporate culture, where diversity is not just tolerated but celebrated.
- **Public Image:** United repositioned itself as a leader in corporate inclusivity, appealing to a broader demographic while maintaining its traditional clientele.

## FAQs


	

		

			

				
Was there any financial impact from the DragCon sponsorship?
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While there was no immediate financial boost, the event helped United Airlines' brand image among young, diverse consumers, potentially influencing long-term loyalty and customer base expansion.
			
		
		

			

				
How did the event change corporate policies at United Airlines?
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It led to the introduction of more inclusive policies, including enhanced diversity training, support groups, and a stronger focus on hiring practices that promote diversity.
			
		
		

			

				
Did other companies follow United’s lead in similar sponsorships?
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Yes, the event sparked a trend where other corporations began to engage more openly with the LGBT+ community through similar sponsorships and events.
			
		
	

The story of Scott Kirby and the drag queen event at United Airlines is one of courage, inclusivity, and the power of corporate leadership in driving societal change. It showcases how one bold decision can resonate far beyond the confines of business, touching lives and promoting acceptance in a world that often needs more of both. Kirby's move was not just about supporting a community but about setting a precedent for what corporate America can and perhaps should be doing more of—leading with empathy, inclusivity, and a genuine desire to make the world a better place. Through this, United Airlines didn't just sponsor an event; they sparked a movement.