Southwest Forced To Defend SeaWorld Deal

<p>Wikimedia Commons</p>
<p>Wikimedia Commons</p>

Southwest Airlines, the latest target of activists' ire over connections with SeaWorld, has taken to their blog to defend their relationship with the amusement park company, which has been on the receiving end of a barrage of bad publicity lately. Marilee McInnis Senior Manager of Culture and Communications for Southwest, writes:

Over the past few weeks we've observed a number of Customers and community members reach out to Southwest Airlines regarding our partnership with SeaWorld. We want our Customers to know that we've heard your concerns and we do not take them lightly. I felt it was necessary to share our position on the partnership and hopefully address any concerns.

The statement is in response to a petition on Change.org demanding that the airline cut ties with SeaWorld, citing the documentary "Blackfish," which has spurred a slew of boycotts and protests against the park. McInnis did say that her company is "engaged with SeaWorld related to the recent concerns being raised," but concluded by saying, "At this time, our partnership with SeaWorld will continue."