Continental Part 2

The letter I sent to Continental Customer Service:

Dear Sirs
My wife recently made a reservation with Continental to fly from New York City to Houston, TX. We informed today that Continental has made a policy to not provide kosher meals on most of their flights.

I am appalled. It is shocking that even in the 21st Century a major company will discriminate against customers because of their religion.

I understand that the policy is a cost-cutting measure in response to the rising costs of security following the terrorism of 9/11. Why respond to racism with racism? Why defend Americans by going against what America stands for?

I ask that Continental reconsider its racist policy. Until there is a reversal, I will urge all those I can reach to not choose Continental.

Sincerely,

[The Styx]

The Response:

Dear Mr. [Styx]:

Thank you for your email regarding the changes with our Special Meal amenities.

I apologize if the changes to our Special Meal amenities may be an inconvenience for you. Customer preference is an important element we consider when making changes to products, services or amenities such as Special Meals.

While this amenity is not being eliminated, Special Meals will only be an option in select markets, such as long haul International flights. Since most of our domestic flights are less than four hours customers with special dietary needs or preferences have a wide variety of options to meet their requirements. We will continue to offer an option of a Special Meal amenity on select flights in markets where alternatives may not be as readily practical or available.

Please be assured that Continental Airlines neither approves of nor tolerates discrimination of any kind. This is, and remains, a matter of policy and culture.

To ensure that your concerns do not go unnoticed, I have registered your comments in a corporate report that is reviewed by our senior management. Continental Airlines looks forward to continuing to merit both your business and your loyalty.

Thank you for your interest in our company, and for choosing Continental to meet your travel needs.

Kind regards,

Tracy McGlothen
Customer Care Manager

My Reply to the Response:

Dear Tracy,

I appreciate your honesty that the airline's policy of eliminating kosher meals is part of cost-cutting and not racism. However, I am not so convinced. As far as I know, there are still meals on the flight. By not providing kosher meals, Continental is making a visible distinction that religious Jews do not deserve the same comfort as the rest of the customers. The price of the ticket is still the same, no?

I believe that Continental must change their policy to something more equitable if they want right-minded Americans to believe them.

I must reiterate my claim that "I ask that Continental reconsider its racist policy. Until there is a reversal, I will urge all those I can reach to not choose Continental."

Sincerely,

[The Styx]

P.S. As a Rabbi, as my title clearly states, I would prefer to be called by that title. Thank you.

Now, let's see what *that* does.