> Why is it so impossible for these people/organizations to accept that they made a mistake and own up to it?

Maybe they accept it, but just don't admit to their mistake. Seems to be a growing trend, unfortunately. Perhaps the result of a society who more and more punishes people for admitting to their mistakes, rather than rewarding them for admitting to it and learning from it.

It's very sad to me, that this seems to be getting so much more common.