Two Transportation Security Administration officers have been suspended as an investigation takes place over a racist display at Miami International Airport.
The display, featuring two stuffed gorillas hanging by a noose, was discovered last week by other TSA officers.
A TSA worker told CNN the display was hanging from a pole ‘in the center of the TSA workstation located underneath the airport where passengers’ checked luggage is screened.’
On reporting it, a manager first tried to make light of it.
The manager ‘tried to downplay the noose and gorilla display, saying it wasn’t racist, it was just a joke.’
"TSA does not tolerate racist or offensive behavior and those found responsible will be held accountable for their actions," said Jenny Burke, a TSA spokeswoman.
"Two TSA officers have been placed on administrative leave while the investigation is ongoing."
CNN has obtained internal emails detailing TSA management’s response.
"We’ve been made aware of an extremely troubling event in Miami this week involving a racially charged, disturbing display that cuts at the very core of who we are and what we stand for as an agency," executive assistant administrator for security operations Darby Lajoye wrote in a communication to the workforce.
, "TSA has zero tolerance for acts like this."
