The Hampton Inn in Lakeville, Minnesota, recently found itself in hot water after it refused service to federal immigration agents. The cancellation of the agents' reservations was revealed through a post from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which alleged that the Hilton hotel chain had enacted a coordinated effort to deny accommodation to its staff involved in immigration enforcement.
Quick to respond, Hilton and the local operators of Hampton Inn Lakeville issued statements expressing regret for the actions taken by hotel staff. They clarified that the refusal contradicted the hotel's overarching policies.
In a social media post, the DHS showcased screenshots of an email where a Hilton representative informed the agents that their reservations had been canceled, stating explicitly, immigration agents would not be allowed to stay at the hotel.
DHS criticized Hilton for what it called malicious action to undermine law enforcement's capabilities in enforcing immigration laws.
While the Hampton Inn operates under the Hilton brand, it is largely independently operated, with most locations run by franchisees. Following the public backlash, the hotel's managing company, Everpeak Hospitality, reiterated their policy of non-discrimination and emphasized their intent to accommodate all guests, including federal agents.
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, DHS added, highlighting a commitment to maintaining open communication on such matters.
