A Latino civil rights group has filed a federal lawsuit accusing Motel 6 of breaking multiple laws when two Phoenix locations shared guest information with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
The Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund filed the case. MALDEF alleges Motel 6 broke federal laws against discrimination and conspiracy. It also alleges the company broke Arizona laws that protect privacy and consumers.
Winning justice and compensation for the plaintiffs are not the only goals of the lawsuit, said Thomas Saenz, president and general counsel for MALDEF. “But also to deter Motel 6 and any other motel or hotel company from continuing to participate in this kind of behavior."
Motel 6 issued a statement saying it takes guest privacy seriously. And the company has forbidden giving guest lists to ICE.
An ICE spokesperson said the federal agency works with private businesses that reach out to ICE.
