In-coming Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian on Friday praised Gov. Nathan Deal’s signal that he will reject a controversial “religious liberty” bill if it legalizes discrimination.

“Delta applauds Governor Deal for his leadership and clear message that discrimination of any kind is unacceptable,” Bastian said in a release.

“With a diverse workforce that includes more than 30,000 employees across Georgia, we fully support Governor Deal rejecting a bill, including Bill 757, that would do anything other than uphold equality and ensure Georgia remains a welcoming state for everyone,” Bastian said.

In-coming Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian
icon to expand image

In-coming Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian

Deal, in speaking about House Bill 757 on Thursday, said it is not necessary to discriminate against others to protect one’s faith and urged religious conservatives not to feel threatened by gay marriage.

Opponents of the bill say it allows faith-based organizations and individuals to discriminate against gays and lesbians. The legislation’s supporters, however, say it is needed to protect those with sincerely held religious beliefs from coercive government action.

Delta is a member of Georgia Prospers – a coalition of businesses, leaders and organizations that have  banded together to oppose the legislation.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Consul General of Canada to the Southeast Rosaline Kwan, right, addresses the Rotary Club of Atlanta as Consul General of Mexico in Atlanta Javier Díaz de León, center, and moderator Martha Brooks look on Monday, March 17, 2025. The consuls general held a discussion about U.S., Canada and Mexico trade relations and recent tariffs instituted by the Trump administration with top Atlanta business and civic leaders. J. Scott Trubey/scott.trubey@ajc.com

Credit: J. Scott Trubey

Featured

Superintendent Bryan Johnson (right) interacts with 11-year-old student Ronnie Burks during Sylvan Hills Middle School’s first day of class on Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024, in Atlanta. (AJC file)

Credit: Ziyu Julian Zhu/AJC