San Diego Boycott Ongoing, but Effect “Negligible”

An ongoing boycott of the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego has led to the loss of some group business, according to a hotel spokesman.

But, Kelly Commerford, marketing manager of the Grand Hyatt, said the financial losses have been “negligible” and that the hotel has “lost very little business” as result of the boycott.

The labor group Unite Here has held weekly protests in front of the hotel since last summer, when it was reported that hotel developer Doug Manchester had donated $125,000 in support of Proposition 8. Proposition 8 was a California ballot measure that asked voters to change the California constitution by restricting the definition of marriage and eliminating the right of same sex couples to marry. It passed by a narrow majority of voters during the November elections.

Only two groups have totally canceled meetings at the hotel, Commerford said. Some other groups have moved some of their events off-site in deference to the wishes of their attendees.

When Unite Here launched its boycott in July, it referenced the Doug Manchester Proposition 8 donation, as well as alleged discrimination against hotel workers who, Unite Here claims, are forced to clean more rooms at the Manchester Grand Hyatt than at other Hyatt properties. Unite Here is also maintaining Manchester Grand Hyatt workers have no job security if the hotel should be sold.

Commerford said the hotel has been unfairly targeted, arguing that Manchester’s donation in support of Proposition 8 “is a private act by a private individual.” He also strongly denied the discrimination allegation. Manchester has also stated the hotel is not for sale.

“[The Grand Hyatt] has nothing to apologize for,” said Commerford. “We have a stellar record of supporting diversity as well as gay and lesbian issues and organizations. We’ve hosted gay weddings at the hotel. [Doug Manchester] does not speak for Hyatt, and Hyatt does not necessarily share his views or his values.”

         Subscribe in NewsGator Online   Subscribe in Bloglines

Want to use this article? Click here for options!
© 2010 Penton Media Inc.


Acceptable Use Policy
blog comments powered by Disqus

Search for Meeting Space

Find Event Suppliers, Request Quotes

Search 75,000 Venues


Advanced Search

The Meeting Planning Blog

Face2Face Latest Posts

Social Media

Meetings Collaborative

Rate your experience with meeting venues and suppliers.

Facility / Hotel

 
Powered by: Meetings Collaborative
Aega Awards

Apex Webinars

Demonstrating Leadership in Turbulent Times

Join MeetingsNet, the Convention Industry Council, and two meeting professionals to learn how seeking out professional development and volunteer opportunities can enhance your career advancement. Click here for free registration.
View it Now! | View APEX Archives

Webinars

Association Day: How to Plan a Winning International Meeting

Join MeetingsNet for two webinars for association professionals taking meetings outside the U.S., featuring expert panelists covering topics from launching your first international meeting to budgeting, sponsorship, and negotiations.
View on Demand | View Archived Webinars

Recent Comments

Powered by Disqus

Back to Top

Explore Our Newsletters

Must-See Meeting Files

Visit the MeetingsNet expert-advice site, where we’ve got top meeting pros on camera answering a variety of your questions as well as a collection of educational—and sometimes offbeat—editors’ pick lists — from the top tech tools to the best books for meeting professionals.

Meeting Planner Survival Guide

Whether you're a novice planner or a veteran, this compilation of must-read articles is your meeting planning resource.

Pharma Meeting Management Forum

Medical Meetings and the Center for Business Intelligence present the Sixth Annual Pharmaceutical Meeting Management Forum in Philadelphia. March 14-16.

Find out more.

Suppliers/
Facilities/CVBs

MeetingsNet makes it easy to find the CVBs, tourist boards, and facilities you need for your next meeting.

Deal Finder

Special offers brought to you by MeetingsNet.

Find A Job

Targeted to all aspects of the hospitality and special events industry.

Education
Central

Upcoming Events, Live and Online

Inside Current Issue

February AM

February 2010

December AM

December 2009

Feb MTNGS Cover

October 2009

August AM

August 2009

August AM

June 2009

Browse Back Issues