U.S. Travel Industry Stays Silent During Immigration Crackdown

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Three weeks into what federal officials describe as the largest immigration enforcement operation in U.S. history, much of the American travel industry has declined to comment publicly, even as airlines, hotels, and airports have become focal points of protest and scrutiny. The operation in Minneapolis–St. Paul, known as Metro Surge, has sent more than 3,000 federal agents into the Twin Cities, led to two fatal shootings by federal officers, and resulted in a statewide general strike on January 23. Demonstrators have targeted airlines and hotels in particular, urging companies to refuse cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Why it matters

The travel industry's silence during this major immigration crackdown raises questions about its willingness to take a stand on politically charged issues that could impact its business operations and customer base. As hubs of transportation and lodging, the travel industry has become a key battleground in the ongoing debate over immigration enforcement in the U.S.

The details

The Metro Surge operation in Minneapolis–St. Paul has involved more than 3,000 federal agents being sent into the Twin Cities region. This has led to two fatal shootings by federal officers and a statewide general strike on January 23. Demonstrators have specifically targeted airlines and hotels, urging them to refuse cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). However, major travel companies like Delta Air Lines have declined to respond to requests for comment on the situation.

• The Metro Surge operation in Minneapolis–St. Paul began three weeks ago.
• On January 23, more than 100 clergy members were arrested after blocking terminal access and calling on Delta and Signature Aviation to oppose ICE operations at Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport.