American Airlines has come under criticism from employees who were told that the company now encourages them to wear black lives matter apparel on their uniforms, and is having badges made specifically for this purpose.

"We are working with our Black Professional Network on designing a specific pin that may be worn with the uniform. In the interim until this pin is produced, to recognize the significance of this moment in history, we are allowing people to wear a Black Lives Matter Pin," Jill Surdek, senior vice president for flight services, announced.

The New York Post reports that some employees and their relatives are disgusted by American promoting a group that engages in violence.

"I take offense to this," a long time flight attendant reportedly complained to management, adding "Serious offense. My husband is a LEO (Law Enforcement Officer), as was my deceased father and as far as I'm concerned ALL LIVES MATTER."

"I am completely disgusted at the fact that we can't show support for our GOD, our COUNTRY, our LEOs but when it comes to BLM organization (which is controversial in itself), American Airlines says that's obviously different," the attendant added in an email obtained by the newspaper.

"How is that right? Well, I don't feel included," the attendant emphasised.

According to the report, one flight attendant asked American if they could wear a 'Blue Lives Matter' pin instead, and they were told that wouldn't be allowed.