Activists call for Motel 6 boycott after guest lists given to ICE
Sep 15, 2017, 3:07 PM | Updated: Sep 16, 2017, 10:30 am
This photo shows a Motel 6 in Phoenix on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2017. Motel 6 says its employees in Phoenix will no longer work with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents following news reports that its workers were reporting on guests they believed were in the United States illegally. (AP Photo/Anita Snow)
(AP Photo/Anita Snow)
PHOENIX — Activists called Friday for a boycott of Motel 6 after it was revealed some Phoenix locations were passing information about guests who were possible illegal immigrants to Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
“We come before you strongly denouncing the actions of Motel 6 and employees who repeatedly shared private information of their guests,” Rep. Diego Espinoza, D-Tolleson said. “Individuals have the right to find a place to rest without any disruption because of their skin color.”
Reports indicate that at least 20 people were arrested on immigration charges as a result of the information being turned over.
Espinoza said the chain should be boycotted until it changes its policies.
In a statement, Motel 6 said its employees in Phoenix will no longer voluntarily pass guest lists on to ICE agents.
Rep. Mark Cardenas, D-Phoenix (District 19) said more should be done.
“We’re here to demand that the employees responsible for this be terminated immediately and until that happens we will call for a boycott of Motel 6,” Cardenas said.
“Whether it was a mother escaping domestic violence, an immigrant simply looking for a place to rest or a homeless person down on their luck, the people of our community have historically seen Motel 6 as a safe haven and an affordable place to stay. These new reports are making community members think that is no longer the case.”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
