Loading ...Arab America Foundation Responds to DOJ Settlement with DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando at Seaworld
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Washington DC, January 17, 2025–The Arab America Foundation (AAF) welcomes the Justice Department’s announcement yesterday regarding its investigation and subsequent settlement with AWH Orlando Property LLC, the owner of the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Orlando at SeaWorld. The settlement follows allegations of discriminatory practices that led to the last-minute cancellation of the Foundation’s Connect Arab America: Empowerment Summit in November 2023, just one week before the event was scheduled.
The findings of the Justice Department affirmed the Foundation’s long-held position that the cancellation was unjustified and discriminatory. The settlement serves as an essential reminder that all groups, irrespective of race, color, religion, or national origin, are entitled to equal access to public accommodations under Title II of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
“We are gratified by the Justice Department’s action, which brings a measure of justice to our organization and the Arab American community,” said Warren David, Co-founder and Board Member of the Arab America Foundation. “While this settlement is a positive step toward accountability, we believe it is only one part of a broader effort to ensure our community’s rights are fully respected. The harm caused by the hotel’s actions remains significant, and we are pursuing civil damages to address the disruption to our event and the broader impact on the Arab American community.”
The settlement includes significant measures to ensure compliance with anti-discrimination laws, such as mandatory training for hotel staff, implementation of an enhanced anti-discrimination policy, and outreach to Arab and Arab American groups. These steps are essential to promoting a more inclusive environment and preventing future discriminatory practices.
CLICK Here to See the DOJ Release
The Arab America Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering Arab American voices through cultural, educational, and community-based initiatives. Although this incident was deeply distressing, the outcome of this settlement strengthens our resolve to continue advocating for equality, inclusion, and respect for all.
For media inquiries, please contact Nissrine Bedda nbedda@arabamerica.com / 877-272-2944
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