In Lakeville, Minnesota, a Hampton Inn has sparked controversy after its new Indian ownership turned away reservations from ICE and DHS agents, allegedly guided by a principle of non-cooperation with immigration enforcement. While Hilton clarified that such actions do not align with the company’s ethos, both the hotel management and Hilton expressed regret and reaffirmed their dedication to inclusivity.
The Hampton Inn by Hilton in Lakeville, Minnesota, which recently refused reservations to ICE and DHS agents, was purchased last year by four Indian partners, according to public records. The hotel was bought for $15 million through an LLC owned by Parmjit Singh, Amanpreet Hundal, Karandeep Nagra, and Mohinderjeet Kaur, according to filings with the Minnesota secretary of state.The incident stirred a row after emails shared on social media by DHS and ICE alleged that staff at the hotel told federal officers their reservations would not be accepted. One email stated said: “We have noticed an influx of GOV reservations made today that have been for DHS, and we are not allowing any ICE or immigration agents to stay at our property.” Another added: “Please pass on this info to your coworkers that we are not allowing any immigration agents to house on our property.”A Hilton spokesperson told FOX Business that the hotel is independently owned and that the actions described do not reflect Hilton’s values. “Hilton hotels serve as welcoming places for all. This hotel is independently owned and operated, and the actions referenced are not reflective of Hilton values,” the spokesperson said. The spokesperson added that the staff have already apologised for their behaviour: “We have been in direct contact with the hotel, and they have apologised for the actions of their team, which was not in keeping with their policies. They have taken immediate action to resolve this matter. Hilton’s position is clear: Our properties are open to everyone and we do not tolerate any form of discrimination.”The management company operating the hotel, Everpeak Hospitality, also released a statement affirming its commitment to welcoming all guests and following brand standards and applicable laws: “We are in touch with the impacted guests to ensure they are accommodated. We do not discriminate against any individuals or agencies and apologise to those impacted.”The dispute shows a long-standing policy of Hilton Hotels. In 2020, the company publicly opposed using its properties in connection with immigration detention and reinforced the stance across its US hotels. DHS assistant secretary Tricia McLaughlin criticised Hilton’s actions, saying, “Hilton has launched a coordinated campaign in Minneapolis to REFUSE service to DHS law enforcement. When officers attempted to book rooms using official government emails and rates, Hilton Hotels maliciously CANCELLED their reservations. This is UNACCEPTABLE.”The matter remains under investigation by Hilton, which has said it is working with the hotel to ensure compliance with its policies.
