theguardian.com
Sheraton Hotel Used for Immigrant Detention, Contradicting Marriott's 2019 Pledge
A Louisiana Sheraton hotel was used to detain a father and son for four days before deportation, contradicting Marriott's 2019 statement against using its hotels for immigrant detention; a source claims the hotel has been used for such purposes since late 2023, raising concerns about the company's knowledge and the vulnerability of the hospitality industry.
- What are the potential long-term implications of this incident for the hospitality industry, including the rights and protections of undocumented workers?
- Marriott's actions, or lack thereof, could set a precedent for other hotel chains and raise questions about the ethical implications of using hotels for immigration detention. Further investigation is needed to determine the extent of Marriott's knowledge and involvement, as well as the potential legal ramifications of their apparent contradiction of previous statements. The incident highlights the need for stronger protections for undocumented workers within the hospitality sector.
- What factors contributed to the apparent contradiction between Marriott's 2019 statement and the current use of a Sheraton hotel for immigration detention?
- The Sheraton's use for detention raises concerns about Marriott's commitment to its 2019 pledge and the vulnerability of the hospitality industry to immigration enforcement. The high percentage of undocumented workers in the industry (34% of housekeepers, 24% of cooks, and 20% of waitstaff) makes it particularly susceptible to such practices. A source reported seeing Ice contractors working at the Sheraton as recently as June 2024.
- What are the immediate consequences of the Sheraton hotel in Louisiana being used to detain immigrants, considering Marriott's prior public stance against such practices?
- A Sheraton hotel in Alexandria, Louisiana, was used by immigration officials to detain a father and son for four days before deportation to Ecuador. This contradicts Marriott's 2019 statement that its hotels would not be used for immigrant detention. A source familiar with hotel operations corroborated the Intercept's report, stating that the hotel has been used to detain immigrant families and unaccompanied children since late 2023.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing emphasizes the apparent contradiction between Marriott's 2019 statement and the Sheraton hotel's use by ICE. The headline and introduction highlight the apparent hypocrisy, potentially influencing readers to view Marriott negatively. While factual, the sequencing and emphasis create a narrative that leans toward criticism of Marriott.
Language Bias
The article uses charged language like "cruel policy," "locked up," and "mass roundup." These phrases carry strong negative connotations. More neutral alternatives could include "deportation policy," "detained," and "increased immigration enforcement." The repeated use of "Ice" without explanation might also implicitly frame the agency in a negative light.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the Sheraton hotel's involvement and the experiences of those detained there. However, it omits details about Marriott's current internal policies regarding cooperation with ICE, beyond the 2019 statement. The article also doesn't explore alternative explanations for the hotel's use, or the perspectives of the hotel management. While the limitations of space and time are acknowledged, the lack of investigation into Marriott's current stance, internal policies, and the hotel management's perspective is a significant omission.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy by framing the situation as a simple contradiction of Marriott's 2019 statement. The reality is likely more nuanced, involving legal contracts, internal policies, and possibly local pressures. The article doesn't explore the range of potential reasons for the discrepancy.
Sustainable Development Goals
The use of hotels to detain immigrants awaiting deportation raises concerns about due process, fair treatment, and the potential for human rights abuses. The actions contradict previous statements by Marriott and highlight the vulnerability of undocumented workers in the hospitality industry, exacerbating existing inequalities.