DOJ alleges that a Florida hotel discriminated against an Arab American group following the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7.
The owner rejected the accusations and maintained no responsibility.
The hotel owner in Orlando, Florida has resolved a discrimination lawsuit with the U.S. Justice Department after canceling a conference for an Arab American group following the Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023.
The Arab America Foundation's annual summit was canceled by DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Orlando at SeaWorld in November 2023 due to discrimination on the basis of national origin, as alleged in a complaint filed Thursday by the DOJ.
The DOJ stated that there were no threats or specific risks to the hotel related to the summit and that there was no other non-discriminatory reason for canceling the meeting for the Arab American cultural and educational group.
"The hotel refused to host an Arab group's event at the DoubleTree during a war in the Middle East, marking the first time in years that the hotel had canceled an event against a customer's wishes."
The owner and the DOJ reached an agreement to avoid prolonged litigation immediately after the complaint was filed, and the owner denied the allegations and did not admit liability.
"Our commitment to inclusivity and creating a welcoming environment for all is reflected in our proactive measures, such as regular training on diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as our ongoing pursuit of best practices and continuous improvement."
AWH Partners stated that it has "no control, input, or involvement" in the management or operations of the hotel as it is a passive, limited-partner investor.
The hotel is obligated to provide a statement within a month to the Arab America Foundation, stating that it welcomes all guests regardless of race, color, religion, or national origin, under the terms of the agreement.
The hotel must have a written anti-discrimination policy and notify at least five Arab or Arab American groups that they are welcome.
The agreement still must be approved by a federal judge.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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