Florida hotel discriminated against Arab-American group after Oct. 7 attack: Justice Department

A hotel owner in Florida’s Orlando tourist district has reached an agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice over a discrimination lawsuit filed against the resort over its cancellation of a hotel for an Arab-American group following the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas incident. Organized planning meeting for attack on Israel.
In a complaint filed Thursday, the Justice Department accused AWH Orlando Properties, owner of the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel at SeaWorld Orlando, of racial discrimination in canceling the Arab American Foundation’s annual summit in November 2023.
The Justice Department said the hotel was not subject to threats or specific risks related to the summit and had no other non-discriminatory reason to cancel the meeting of the Arab American cultural and educational group.
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The Department of Justice seal is seen during a press conference at the Department of Justice offices in Washington on May 16, 2023. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)
“Simply put, the hotel does not want Arab groups – in this case, foundations – to hold events at DoubleTree amid the ongoing wars in the Middle East,” the complaint states. “This is the first time in many years that DoubleTree The event was canceled against the customer’s wishes.”
The owner denies the accusations and does not admit responsibility. An attorney for the owners said in a statement that the owners and the Justice Department reached an agreement immediately after the complaint was filed to avoid lengthy litigation.
“We are deeply committed to inclusion and creating a welcoming environment for all,” the statement read. “As part of this commitment, we will continue to implement proactive measures, including on diversity, equity and Inclusive regular training while striving for continuous improvement and best practice.”

U.S. Department of Justice holds meeting in Washington, D.C., June 11, 2021 (Kevin Dickey/Getty Images)
AWH Partners said it has “no control, say, input or involvement” in the management or operations of the hotel because it is a passive limited partner investor.
Under the terms of the agreement, the hotel must issue a statement to the Arab American Foundation within a month making it clear that all guests are welcome regardless of race, color, religion or national origin.
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Hotels 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 must be approved by a federal judge.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.