In a recent development, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) disclosed that a Hilton franchisee in Minneapolis refused to accommodate ICE agents, leading the Hilton parent company to sever ties with the hotel.
According to The Post Millennial, Hilton released a statement expressing concern over the franchisee's actions, stating, "The independent hotel owner had assured us that they had fixed this problem and published a message confirming this. A recent video clearly raises concerns that they are not meeting our standards and values.
As such, we are taking immediate action to remove this hotel from our systems. Hilton isand always has beena welcoming place for all. We are also engaging with all of our franchisees to reinforce the standards we hold them to across our system to help ensure this does not happen again." This move underscores Hilton's commitment to maintaining its reputation as an inclusive and welcoming brand.
The DHS shared emails from the Minnesota Hilton franchisee, accusing the hotel of orchestrating "a coordinated campaign in Minneapolis to REFUSE service to DHS law enforcement." The emails revealed that when officers attempted to book rooms using official government emails and rates, their reservations were abruptly canceled.
The email further stated, "We have noticed an influx of GOV reservations made today that have been for DHS, and we are not allowing any ICE or immigration agents to stay at our property. If you are with DHS or immigration, let us know as we will have to cancel your reservation." The Hampton Inn Lakeville location was identified as the establishment in question.
Hilton Hotels responded to the viral post by reiterating their commitment to inclusivity, stating, "Hilton Hotels serve as welcoming places for all. This hotel is independently owned and operated, and the actions referenced are not reflective of Hilton values. We are investigating this matter with this individual hotel, and can confirm that Hilton works with governments, law enforcement, and community leaders around the world to ensure our properties are open and inviting to everyone."
This response highlights Hilton's proactive approach in addressing the issue and ensuring compliance with their values.
Everpeak Hospitality, the independent owner of the Hampton Inn by Hilton hotel, also issued a statement addressing the incident. They stated, "Everpeak Hospitality has moved swiftly to address this matter as it was inconsistent with our policy of being a welcoming place for all. We are in touch with the impacted guests to ensure they are accommodated. We do not discriminate against any individuals or agencies and apologize to those impacted. We are committed to welcoming all guests and operating in accordance with brand standards, applicable laws, and our role as a professional hospitality provider."
This statement reflects Everpeak's acknowledgment of the situation and their efforts to rectify it.
Independent journalist Nick Sortor visited the hotel on Tuesday night to investigate the situation further. He inquired about room availability and government rates, to which the front desk agent responded, "It depends, because theres a lot of stuff going on right now." When Sortor mentioned the DHS, the agent replied, "So were not accepting people from immigration, ICE agents, DHS into our property. Its just management, ownership." This interaction suggests a disconnect between the hotel's stated policy and its actual practices.
Sortor expressed skepticism about the hotel's claims of policy change, noting, "I just talked to the owner of the building, and he didnt say there had been any changes. So yeah, its just policy." Despite Everpeak's earlier statement, the hotel's actions appeared to contradict their assurances of inclusivity. Sortor's persistence in seeking clarification led to the desk agent attempting to contact the owner, but he was unable to reach anyone due to the late hour.
Outside the hotel, Sortor shared his frustration with the situation, stating, "Alright, so they lied. They lied, Hilton and the Hampton Inn out here, and Everpeak Hospitality lied. Full of sh*t, and now they are going to, well, lets just say they effed around, and its find out time. They almost got a little bit of a pass the first time, right? You thought they may have learned their lesson, and this is why I said that their talk is, it means nothing." His remarks underscore the perceived lack of accountability and transparency from the hotel and its management.
Sortor further commented on the potential repercussions for Hilton, drawing a parallel to the backlash faced by Bud Light in the past. He remarked, "Now theyre going to get Bud-Lighted," referencing the public outcry Bud Light experienced after partnering with Dylan Mulvaney, a trans-identified male, for a social media campaign.
Sortor's comments suggest that Hilton could face similar consequences if they fail to address the situation adequately.
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