Orlando Hotel Reaches Agreement with Justice Department Over Discrimination Claims Against Arab American Group

An agreement has been reached between the owner of a hotel in Orlando and the Justice Department. This agreement comes in the wake of a lawsuit filed by the Justice Department, which alleged that the hotel discriminated against an Arab American group by canceling their planned conference shortly after the attack that ignited the war in Gaza.

Allegations of Discrimination

The complaint, filed by the Justice Department, accused the owner of the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Orlando at SeaWorld of discrimination based on national origin. The complaint stated that the hotel canceled the annual summit organized by the Arab America Foundation in November 2023, almost a month after the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. The complaint highlighted that there were no threats or specific risks associated with the summit nor any other valid reason to cancel the meeting for the Arab American cultural and educational group.

Denial of Allegations

The hotel owner, AWH Orlando Property, denied the allegations but did not admit liability. In a statement issued by attorneys for the owner, it was mentioned that both parties reached the agreement to avoid a drawn-out legal process. The statement emphasized the owner's commitment to inclusivity and creating a welcoming environment for all. Additionally, it was mentioned that proactive measures, including regular training on diversity, equity, and inclusion, are being implemented to foster continuous improvement and best practices.

Terms of the Agreement

The agreement stipulated that the hotel must issue a statement within a month to the Arab America Foundation, clarifying its stance on welcoming all guests regardless of race, color, religion, or national origin. Furthermore, the hotel is required to adopt a written anti-discrimination policy and reach out to at least five Arab or Arab American groups to inform them of the hotel's openness to all members of the public. The agreement must receive approval from a federal judge to become effective.

Importance of Equal Access

Attorney Roger B. Handberg for the Middle District of Florida emphasized the significance of equal access to places of public accommodation in our communities. He assured that the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Middle District would continue to hold public accommodation establishments accountable to safeguard the civil rights of all individuals.

Response from the Arab America Foundation

The Arab America Foundation has not yet provided a response to the Justice Department's complaint and the subsequent agreement, as of the latest reports from the Associated Press.