UPDATE: The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has just announced that global hotel chain Hilton is allegedly involved in a “coordinated campaign” to deny service to immigration agents by canceling their hotel reservations in Minneapolis. This development comes as the agency prepares for an escalated immigration enforcement operation in the area.
Screenshots released by DHS on Monday, October 16, 2023, show emails purportedly from a Hilton address confirming the cancellations. One email states, “After further investigation online, we have found information about immigration work connected with your name and we will be cancelling your upcoming reservation.” The affected hotel is the Hampton Inn Lakeville, located in a suburb south of Minneapolis.
The emails reveal a troubling trend: “If you are with DHS or immigration, let us know as we will have to cancel your reservation,” suggests a message from the hotel. This alarming situation raises significant concerns about discrimination against federal agents, particularly those working for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
The hotel, operated by Everpeak Hospitality, released a statement declaring that the incident “was inconsistent with our policy of being a welcoming place for all.” They are reportedly in contact with the affected guests to ensure they are properly accommodated. However, DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin has publicly refuted this claim, stating that DHS and ICE have not heard from Everpeak Hospitality regarding a resolution.
In a statement to CNN, Hilton clarified that the Lakeville location is independently owned and operated, emphasizing, “Our properties are open to everyone and we do not tolerate any form of discrimination.” The company confirmed they are working swiftly to resolve the issue and reach out to impacted guests.
The urgency of this matter is heightened by the ongoing climate of immigration enforcement in the U.S., making it crucial for both guests and officials to monitor developments closely. As DHS prepares for increased operations, the implications of such cancellations could resonate deeply within the community and beyond.
This incident underscores a significant intersection of hospitality, law enforcement, and public policy, raising questions about the treatment of federal agents in their professional capacities. As the story unfolds, it remains to be seen how this situation will affect relations between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
What to Watch For: DHS is expected to provide further updates regarding their investigation into Hilton’s practices, while impacted guests await clarity on their accommodations. The ongoing conversation about immigration policy and enforcement in the U.S. will likely intensify in light of these developments. Stay tuned for more updates as this story continues to evolve.
