Airbnb Takes Action Against Host for Racial Discrimination
In a stark reminder of the challenges surrounding diversity and inclusion in the sharing economy, Airbnb has permanently banned a California host after they allegedly canceled a guest’s reservation due to racial bias.
The Incident: A Shocking Display of Discrimination
Dyne Suh, a 25-year-old UCLA law student, shared disturbing screenshots on Facebook revealing how a host refused to rent to her because of her Asian heritage. The messages included blatantly racist remarks, with one stating:
“I wouldn’t rent to u if u were the last person on earth… One word says it all: Asian.”
Timeline of Events:
- Initial Booking: Suh and her fiancé reserved a mountain cabin in Big Bear Lake, California, a month before their February trip.
- Request for Modifications: Days before arrival, Suh asked to add two friends and two puppies to the reservation, which the host initially approved.
- Last-Minute Cancellation: As the group approached the cabin during a severe snowstorm, the host suddenly canceled, unleashing racist rhetoric about “foreigners” and referencing political sentiments.
Airbnb’s Swift Response
An Airbnb spokesperson confirmed to Fortune that the host was permanently removed from the platform, stating:
“This behavior is abhorrent and unacceptable.”
The company’s non-discrimination policy explicitly prohibits bias based on race, religion, national origin, or other protected characteristics.
The Human Impact
Suh, a naturalized U.S. citizen who has lived in America for 23 years, expressed her devastation to KTLA 5 News:
“It stings that after living in the U.S. for over 23 years, this is what happens.”
Key Takeaways:
- Platform Accountability: The incident highlights sharing economy platforms’ responsibility to enforce anti-discrimination policies.
- Documentation Matters: Suh’s decision to screenshot the exchange provided crucial evidence.
- Broader Implications: Such cases raise questions about systemic biases in peer-to-peer services.
Airbnb has faced similar controversies in the past, leading to the implementation of its Open Doors policy, which provides alternative accommodations for guests facing discrimination. This latest incident serves as a reminder that while technology connects people, human prejudices can still create barriers.
Sources: Washington Post, NBC Los Angeles, KTLA 5
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