Diana Ross said she was almost brought to tears this weekend after an aggressive TSA inspection at a New Orleans airport left her feeling “violated.” Ross shared her story on Twitter on Sunday (May 5).
The legendary singer was reportedly in New Orleans to perform at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival on Saturday (May 4). The incident allegedly took place at the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.
“OK so, on one hand, I’m treated like royalty in New Orleans and at the airport, I was treated like sh*t,” she wrote on Twitter. “Let me be clear, not the [people] or Delta BUT TSA, was over the top!! Makes me want to cry!!!”
According to Ross, a female TSA agent allegedly used great force while inspecting the singer’s legs and lower body. “It’s not what was done but how, I am feeling violated,” she continued. “I still feel her hands between my legs, front and back (saying to me it’s her job). WOW!! Really mixed emotions I always like to see the good things but not feeling good right now.”
A TSA spokesperson addressed Ross’ allegations in a statement obtained by People. Upon reviewing the CCTV footage, the spokesperson confirmed that the agent involved in her inspection “correctly followed all protocols.”
“TSA is committed to ensuring all travelers are treated with respect and courtesy. TSA is aware of concerns presented by Diana Ross about her screening experience at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport this morning,” the statement reads. “Initial review of CCTV indicates that the officers involved with Ms. Ross’s screening correctly followed all protocols, however, TSA leadership will continue to investigate the matter further. We encourage Ms. Ross to reach out to TSA so we can work with her directly to address her concerns.”
While the incident may have been scary, Ross seems to be feeling a lot better. After her initial remarks, the singer shared a video of her singing along to The Supremes’ “Stop in the Name of Love” at the jazz festival. “I’m feeling better, it took a minute,” she wrote.
OK so on one hand I’m treated like royalty in New Orleans and at the airport I was treated like shit
— Ms. Ross (@DianaRoss) May 5, 2019
Let me be clear , Not the peiple or Delta BUT TSA , was over the top !!
Makes me want to cry !!!— Ms. Ross (@DianaRoss) May 5, 2019
Its not what was done but how , I am feeling violated – I still feel her hands between my legs , front and back ( saying to me it her job ,) WOW!!really mixed emotions I always like to see the good things but not feeling good right now
— Ms. Ross (@DianaRoss) May 5, 2019