A Hilton branded hotel that originally declined to host guests because they were with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has backpedalled, saying in a statement Monday it does “not discriminate against any individuals or agencies and apologize to those impacted.”
The episode started earlier on Monday when the official DHS X account posted what it presented as screenshots of emails from the Hilton hotel to officials.
“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,” one of the emails reads. “If you are with DHS or immigration, let us know as we will have to cancel your reservation.”
A second email then says “After further investigation online, we have found information about immigration work connected with your name and we will be cancelling your upcoming reservation.”
The DHS X account posted these screenshots along with the text “Hilton Hotels has launched a coordinated campaign in Minneapolis to REFUSE service to DHS law enforcement.”
In a statement to 404 Media, Hilton Hotels said the particular hotel was independently operated, as many of Hilton’s hotels are. “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,” the statement said.
A few hours later, Hilton followed up with an updated statement, saying “We have been in direct contact with the hotel, and they have apologized for the actions of their team, which was not in keeping with their policies. They have taken immediate action to resolve this matter. Hilton’s position is clear: Our properties are open to everyone and we do not tolerate any form of discrimination.”
The company then pointed to a statement on Everspeak Hospitality’s website, saying this was the respective hotel. “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,” the statement said.
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