Accor investigating racial profiling allegations at Alice Springs hotel
Authorities in Australia are investigating claims of racial profiling made against the Ibis Styles Alice Springs Oasis.
The hotel which is part of French hospitality giant Accor, is giving Aboriginal the most basic rooms at the hotel, according to an report by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
The ABC said it has seen a leaked e-mail advising staff at the hotel put people from ‘the communities’ into one of six rooms.
A staff member who declined to be named told the ABC the policy began last year and has been followed hundreds of times.
Anyone who ‘appeared Aboriginal’ was given the ‘worse rooms’ the worker said.
Minister for indigenous affairs Nigel Scullion vowed to investigate the claims.
The national broadcaster made two bookings, including one for Aboriginal guests and found they were given inferior accommodation.
Accor told the ABC it was unaware of any complaints.
"The hotel welcomes and embraces guests from all backgrounds and cultures," Accor said, adding that more than 30% of the hotel’s workforce are indigenous employees.
Still, it has pledged to fully investigate and has brought in a new manager.
"At this time, interim management has been appointed to the hotel while we investigate. We are issuing a formal communication to all employees reiterating our anti-discrimination expectations", an Accor spokeswoman said.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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