ICE Protests Transform Budget Hotels into Immigration Battlegrounds

Increasing protests against ICE agents at hotels have turned budget accommodations into significant battlegrounds in the ongoing immigration debate. From Minneapolis to Maine, activists have mobilized to voice their opposition, frequently utilizing instruments like whistles, pots, and pans to create noise late into the night.

Protests Targeting Budget Hotels

Protests have intensified at hotels affiliated with major chains such as Hilton and Marriott. Activists are actively encouraging these establishments to deny accommodations to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents.

Activism Across the Nation

• Activists have occupied hotel lobbies, such as the Hilton Garden Inn in New York.
• Right-wing influencers have taken to social media to criticize hotels perceived as uncooperative with ICE.
• Major protests have originated in Los Angeles, extending to cities including Minneapolis and New York.

According to Aru Shiney-Ajay, executive director of the Sunrise Movement, the aim is to show hotels that supporting ICE could lead to more significant losses than gains. The organization has prompted community members to make and subsequently cancel room reservations at budget hotels, thereby disrupting normal operations.

Challenges for Hotel Franchise Owners

Hotel owners, particularly franchisees, face a challenging dilemma. Brands insist on accommodating all guests, which includes ICE personnel. However, rejecting such reservations can result in serious repercussions.

Hilton recently terminated a Hampton Inn franchise in Lakeville, Minnesota, after a video surfaced of a clerk allegedly refusing service to ICE agents. Hilton responded, stating, “We are also engaging with all of our franchisees to reinforce the standards we hold them to across our system.”

Impact on Immigrant Workforce

Many budget hotels are owned by immigrants, with over half of U.S. hotels being run by Asian American franchisees. These establishments depend heavily on immigrant workers for essential tasks like cleaning and maintenance. The presence of ICE can be both disturbing and traumatizing for these employees.

Christa Sarrack, leader of UNITE HERE! Local 17, shared insights about the heightened climate of fear among hotel workers. She indicated that the stress level related to ICE’s presence is unprecedented.

Response from Hotel Associations

While many hotel chains, including Hilton, Hyatt, and Marriott, have refrained from commenting on the protests, the American Hotel & Lodging Association acknowledges the intricate role hotels play in community safety and well-being.

As protests continue, the pressure mounts on hotel owners to navigate their responsibilities amid this contentious situation. Further demonstrations are likely as activists remain committed to sending a message to the hotel industry and its stakeholders.