Current:Home > InvestHilton hotel in Texas cancels Palestinian rights group's conference, citing safety concerns-InfoLens
Hilton hotel in Texas cancels Palestinian rights group's conference, citing safety concerns
View Date:2024-12-23 22:41:47
A prominent Palestinian rights organization said a conference it was planning later this month was canceled by a Hilton hotel in Texas where it was slated to host the event.
The US Campaign for Palestinian Rights' (USCPR) annual conference was scheduled for October 27-29 at the Hilton Houston Post Oak by the Galleria in Houston. The keynote speaker is billed as Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib, a Democrat from Michigan.
Ahmad Abuznaid, USCPR's executive director, said in a statement posted on X (formerly known as Twitter) that Hilton's decision to cancel the conference violates the group's First Amendment rights and "is clearly an act of ethnic, racial and religious discrimination."
"Not only has Hilton breached their agreement with us, they have also sent a strong message that they stand on the side of hate and bigotry and hate," Abuznaid said.
Hilton confirmed that it canceled the USCPR event, saying in an email sent to CBS MoneyWatch that "the safety and security of our team members and guests is our top priority." The hotel chain cited "escalating security concerns" as the reason for canceling the conference.
The company added, "Hilton Houston Post Oak by the Galleria serves as a place of public accommodation and does not endorse the positions of third-party groups or organizations."
The incident comes amid heightened sensitivities related to the the war between Israel and Hamas, an armed Palestinian militant group. Tensions in the U.S. have flared since Hamas' Oct. 7 attack on Israel, including alleged crimes committed against both the Jewish and Muslim communities.
- In:
- Palestinians
Khristopher J. Brooks is a reporter for CBS MoneyWatch covering business, consumer and financial stories that range from economic inequality and housing issues to bankruptcies and the business of sports.
TwitterveryGood! (19)
Related
- Brian Kelly asks question we're all wondering after Alabama whips LSU, but how to answer?
- 'Tiger King' made us feel bad. 'Chimp Crazy' should make us feel worse: Review
- 3 exhumed Tulsa Race Massacre victims found with gunshot wounds
- 'We've lost a hero': Georgia deputy fatally shot after responding to domestic dispute
- 'Devastation is absolutely heartbreaking' from Southern California wildfire
- Aces coach Becky Hammon says Dearica Hamby's mistreatment allegations 'didn't happen'
- Alaska’s top 4 open primary to set stage for a ranked vote in key US House race
- The Latest: Preparations underway for night 1 of the DNC in Chicago
- Trading wands for whisks, new Harry Potter cooking show brings mess and magic
- Tech Magnate Mike Lynch and Daughter Among 6 People Missing After Yacht Sinks Off Sicily Coast
Ranking
- When does 'Dune: Prophecy' come out? Release date, cast, where to watch prequel series
- Powerball winning numbers for August 19 drawing: $44.3 million jackpot won in California
- Barry Keoghan Snuggles Up With His “Charmer” Son Brando, 2, in Rare Photo
- California hits milestones toward 100% clean energy — but has a long way to go
- Trump breaks GOP losing streak in nation’s largest majority-Arab city with a pivotal final week
- University of Missouri student group ‘heartbroken’ after it was told to rename its Welcome Black BBQ
- Chappell Roan Calls Out Entitled Fans for Harassing and Stalking Her
- Powerball winning numbers for August 19 drawing: $44.3 million jackpot won in California
Recommendation
-
The Latin Grammys are almost here for a 25th anniversary celebration
-
'Tiger King' made us feel bad. 'Chimp Crazy' should make us feel worse: Review
-
Jury hears ex-politician on trial for murder amassed photos, ID records about slain Vegas reporter
-
Alabama sets November date for third nitrogen execution
-
Footage shows Oklahoma officer throwing 70-year-old to the ground after traffic ticket
-
Dance Moms Alum Kalani Hilliker Engaged to Nathan Goldman
-
Ryan Reynolds Shares How Deadpool & Wolverine Honors Costar Rob Delaney's Late Son Henry
-
A North Carolina woman dies after going on a Vodou retreat in Haiti. Her son wants answers.