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The owner of a hotel in the tourist area of Orlando, Florida, reached an agreement with US Department of Justice in a discrimination lawsuit filed against the resort after it canceled a planned conference for an Arab American group in the wake of the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel by Hamas.
In a complaint filed Thursday, the Justice Department accused AWH Orlando Property, owner of the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Orlando at SeaWorld, of discrimination based on national origin when it canceled the Arab America Foundation’s annual summit in November 2023.
The Justice Department said there was not threats or specific risks to the hotel in connection with the summit and that there were no other non-discriminatory reasons to cancel the meeting for the Arab-American cultural and educational group.
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The seals of the Department of Justice are seen during a news conference at the office of the Department of Justice in Washington, on May 16, 2023. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)
“Simply put, amid the ongoing war in the Middle East, the hotel did not want an Arab group — in this case, the Foundation — to hold its event at the DoubleTree,” the complaint states. “This was the first time in years that DoubleTree canceled an event against the wishes of the customer.”
The owner denied the allegations and pleaded not guilty. In a statement, attorneys for the owner said the owner and the Justice Department reached a settlement that was reached immediately after the complaint was filed to avoid lengthy litigation.
“We are deeply committed to inclusiveness and creating a welcoming environment for all,” the statement said. “As part of this commitment, we continue to implement proactive measures, including regular diversity, equity and inclusion training, while striving for continuous improvement and best practice.”
US Department of Justice seen on June 11, 2021. in Washington, DC (Kevin Deitch/Getty Images)
AWH Partners said it has “no control, let’s say input or participation” in the management or operation of the hotel, as it is a passive limited liability investor.
Under the terms of the agreement, the hotel must issue a statement to the Arab American Foundation within a month clearly stating that it welcomes all guests regardless of race, color, religion or national origin.
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The hotel must also adopt a written anti-discrimination policy and contact at least five Arab or Arab-American groups to inform them that the hotel welcomes all members of the public.
The agreement still needs to be approved by a a federal judge.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
