UKLFI: Supporting Israel with legal skills

Legoland to review dress code following Keffiyah incident at Succah

Legoland will review and enhance its team dress code, following an incident where a security guard outside the Legoland Succah was wearing a keffiyeh.

Legoland had provided a Succah for Jewish visitors to Legoland during Sukkot, which was a great success, but the visitors had been shocked to see the keffiyeh clad guard.

UK Lawyers for Israel (UKLFI) had made a complaint to Legoland about the incident and pointed out that the black-and-white checkered headdress, which represents the Palestinian liberation movement, is often worn to convey political sentiments in favour of Palestinians or even in favour of the terrorist group Hamas.  UKLFI had warned that Legoland may be breaching the Equality Act by creating an intimidating, hostile, and offensive environment for its Jewish clients.

Legoland’s legal director replied to UKLFI: “Whilst we must reserve our legal position in relation to the allegations made concerning the potential breach of the Equality Act 2010, we do wish to reassure you that we take our responsibilities very seriously. We continue to be fully committed to creating and nurturing an inclusive environment, where everyone feels welcome and can enjoy our Resort at all times.”

Legoland continued: “ We understand that the guest’s concern relates to one of our team who was wearing an item of clothing which could be seen as offensive. At LEGOLAND Windsor, the safety and security of our guests and team is our number one priority and we therefore take these kinds of concerns extremely seriously. After a full investigation into the matter, we can confirm that there was no intent from the team member to knowingly cause any upset or offence.”

As an organisation, we are always listening to our guests and team members. We will therefore use this feedback as an opportunity to review and, where appropriate, enhance our existing Diversity and Inclusion Framework including our team dress code.”

Caroline Turner, director of UKLFI commented: “We are happy that Legoland is taking this issue seriously and that they will enhance their team dress code to take account of the views of their Jewish customers.”