Controversy Over Offensive Slogan in Australian Car Rental Company

An Australian car rental company is under fire for offensive language on its fleet. For 75 years, the slogan has been displayed on the side of the company’s cars, but a mother and her 7-year-old son are now calling attention to its offensive nature. Nicole Van Dijken and her son were taken aback when they saw a car with the phrase “no birds” written across the door.

Uncovering the Slogan’s Meaning

Van Dijken was shocked and had to figure out what the slogan meant and how to explain it to her young son. Bayswater Car Rental, founded in 1958, had a policy of not hiring women as drivers. The term “birds” referred to women or delivery girls. Customers were expected to pick up their own cars, so there were no “birds” behind the wheel, only the customers themselves.

A Mother’s Frustration

Van Dijken expressed her frustration about explaining this “sexist slur” to her son. She believes the slogan belongs in the past and is not appropriate in today’s inclusive society. She said, “It’s a sexist slur, and I’m now in a position where I need to explain that to my son, which I did do.”

Company’s Stance

The car rental company refuses to change its slogan. Instead, they direct customers to their website for more information, explaining that in the past, having “delivery girls” was a standard service. Some people argue that the term “bird” used to be friendly, but in today’s world, it is not appropriate.

Historical Criticism

This is not the first time the company has faced criticism for its slogan. Even in the 1950s and 1960s, there was opposition to the term “no birds.” A female respondent shared that her mother wrote a letter to the newspaper objecting to the slogan. It is surprising that the company still uses this slogan despite the backlash it has received.

The Need for Change

In a time where inclusivity and respect are highly valued, businesses must be aware of the impact their language can have. Using outdated and offensive slogans can alienate potential customers and harm the company’s reputation. It is crucial for businesses to adapt and update their practices to reflect the values of today’s society.