During a Christmas-themed event on P&O Cruises Australia’s Pacific Explorer, staff members donned white cleaning uniforms with pointy hats, resembling Ku Klux Klan (KKK) attire.
Even though they claim the look was unintentional, it led to passengers shock and public backlash.
The incident occurred during an event where the crew intended to dress as “upside-down snow cones,” the NY Post reports.
However, the costumes bore a striking resemblance to KKK robes, understandably leading to passenger discomfort.
P&O Cruises Australia issued an apology, stating that the staff were unaware of the resemblance and had no malicious intent. A company spokesperson explained, “They had no idea, they were horrified when management said to them, please take those outfits off.”
The crew, primarily from India and the Philippines, were reportedly unaware of the KKK’s symbolism. The company emphasized that the staff’s unfamiliarity with the KKK imagery was due to their diverse international background.
Passengers expressed their shock and dismay, with one recalling, “The mood turned silent in shock.”
P&O Cruises Australia has taken steps to prevent similar incidents in the future, including reviewing costume guidelines and providing cultural sensitivity training to staff.