Alaska Airlines has taken a significant step forward in embracing diversity and inclusion by updating its uniform guidelines for flight attendants and other frontline employees. The progressive move emphasizes personal expression and gender inclusivity, allowing employees to bring their most authentic selves to work. This update not only modernizes the airline’s image but also reinforces its commitment to creating a welcoming and respectful environment for both employees and passengers.
Alaska Airlines flight attendant Monique "Mo" Sambrano wearing a male uniform, showcasing the new inclusive uniform policy.
The revised policy, effective immediately, provides flight attendants with greater freedom in choosing uniform pieces that best reflect their individual identity and gender expression. This means breaking away from traditional gender-specific uniform categories and embracing a more fluid approach to workplace attire. Monique “Mo” Sambrano, a San Diego-based Alaska Airlines flight attendant, perfectly embodies this shift. Mo proudly wears what was previously considered a male uniform, highlighting the airline’s new direction. “I love who I am and refuse to make myself smaller in order to be accepted,” Mo stated, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in the workplace. “Your gender shouldn’t define what you wear or how you look.” This sentiment resonates deeply with Alaska Airlines’ aim to ensure every team member feels comfortable and valued.
Close-up of Monique "Mo" Sambrano, an Alaska Airlines flight attendant, confidently wearing a tie and male-style uniform, exemplifying personal choice in uniform selection.
Monique "Mo" Sambrano smiling in her Alaska Airlines uniform, representing the airline's dedication to inclusive uniform policies for flight attendants.
Full-body shot of Monique "Mo" Sambrano in her Alaska Airlines flight attendant uniform, demonstrating the airline's commitment to gender expression through updated uniform guidelines.
Further solidifying their commitment to inclusivity, Alaska Airlines is collaborating with Seattle-based designer Luly Yang to develop new gender-neutral uniform pieces. These additions will be available for flight attendants, customer service agents, and lounge employees, ensuring a wider range of options for personal expression. Employee input is integral to this design process, ensuring the new pieces are both stylish and functional while meeting the diverse needs of the workforce.
Beyond uniform styles, the updated guidelines also encompass grooming and appearance standards. Expression options now available to all employees include fingernail polish, makeup, up to two earrings per ear, and a single stud nose piercing. Tattoo policies have been broadened to allow for more visible tattoos, and hairstyle options have become more flexible. Even the names of uniform kits are being revised to focus on fit rather than gender identification, moving away from binary labels and towards a more inclusive vocabulary.
Alaska Airlines flight attendant Cameron Lee showcasing a modern hairstyle and makeup, reflecting the updated grooming standards for flight attendant uniforms.
Alaska Airlines employee Cameron Lee modeling diverse hairstyles now permitted under the inclusive flight attendant uniform policy.
Alaska Airlines flight attendant Elissa Maples displaying allowed jewelry and makeup options under the updated uniform policy, promoting individual expression.
Alaska Airlines employee Erica Williams wearing a flight attendant uniform, demonstrating the professional yet personalized look encouraged by the updated guidelines.
Alaska Airlines flight attendant Selwyn Morales presenting a contemporary and inclusive image in the updated uniform, highlighting personal style within professional guidelines.
Alaska Airlines employee Amir Montgomery in a flight attendant uniform, representing the diverse and inclusive workforce embraced by the updated uniform policy.
Tim, a flight attendant with Alaska Airlines for 17 years, emphasizes the power of these changes, stating, “Updating our uniform policy shows people without telling them, what Alaska’s values are. Showing people who we are is just as important as telling them.” This sentiment is echoed by David, a lounge concierge at JFK, who believes these choices reaffirm his career choice with Alaska Airlines. “Alaska gets it and we’re making the right choices and moving in the right direction,” David remarks. “It’s what I expect from Alaska/Horizon. We do the right thing. It’s part of our culture.”
Alaska Airlines flight attendant Tim Clemens in Los Angeles, showcasing the airline's updated and inclusive uniform policy for flight attendants.
Alaska Airlines flight attendant Elissa Maples in her uniform, representing the airline's commitment to providing inclusive and diverse uniform options.
Alaska Airlines lounge concierge David Hand at JFK Lounge, modeling the updated uniform policy that embraces inclusivity and personal expression.
Alaska Airlines lounge concierge David Hand at JFK, wearing the updated uniform, reflecting the airline's progressive approach to employee uniforms and inclusivity.
James Thomas, Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Alaska, underscores the personal impact of these inclusive policies. “I know firsthand what it feels like not to be seen, heard or able to bring your authentic self to work,” Thomas shared. He emphasizes the company’s ongoing commitment to listening and improving to ensure every employee feels valued and respected.
James Thomas, Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Alaska Airlines, highlighting the importance of inclusive uniform policies for employee well-being and authenticity.
Jason, an Alaska flight attendant and drag performer, welcomes the changes and looks forward to continued support from the company in fostering understanding and acceptance among colleagues and passengers. Jason’s personal story of expressing their identity at their senior prom highlights the significance of acceptance and self-expression. While celebrating the uniform updates, Jason also emphasizes the need for ongoing support and understanding in the face of potential adversity.
Alaska Airlines flight attendant Jason Barbon, representing the airline's inclusive uniform policy that supports diverse personal expressions.
Alaska Airlines flight attendant Selwyn Morales in uniform, showcasing the airline's dedication to diversity and inclusion through updated uniform guidelines.
Alaska Airlines flight attendant Jason Barbon in uniform, demonstrating how the updated policy allows for personal style within the flight attendant profession.
Nesha, a customer service agent in Portland, praises Alaska Airlines for its inclusive environment. “Allowing tattoos and nose rings as well as gender-neutral pieces is what makes Alaska such a great and inclusive company that everyone loves,” Nesha states, highlighting the positive impact of these changes on employee morale and company image.
Alaska Airlines customer service agent Nesha Price in Portland, representing the inclusive uniform policy and positive employee experience at Alaska Airlines.
Alaska Airlines customer service agent Nesha Price smiling in her uniform, showcasing the positive impact of inclusive uniform policies on employee satisfaction.
Alaska Airlines customer service agent Nesha Price in uniform, demonstrating the airline's commitment to an inclusive and welcoming workplace through updated uniform guidelines.
Furthering their dedication to inclusivity, Alaska Airlines is also enabling guests to select personal pronouns during booking by the end of 2022. In the interim, pronoun pins are available for employees to wear, fostering a more respectful and understanding environment. Isaac, a lead customer service agent, appreciates this initiative, noting the growing awareness and sensitivity around personal pronouns. “I applaud Alaska Air Group for having the courage to move forward with creating a more inclusive and diverse workplace,” Isaac expresses, emphasizing the joy in celebrating uniqueness and acceptance within the team.
Alaska Airlines lead customer service agent Isaac You, wearing pronoun pins, demonstrating the airline's initiative to support personal pronouns in the workplace.
In conclusion, Alaska Airlines’ updated flight attendant uniform policy represents a significant stride towards a more inclusive and equitable workplace. By prioritizing individual expression and moving beyond traditional gender norms, Alaska Airlines is not only enhancing employee well-being but also setting a new standard for inclusivity within the airline industry and beyond. This ongoing journey of inclusivity reflects a deep commitment to valuing every individual and fostering a sense of belonging for both employees and passengers.
