Mr. Manchester’s Apology

Dear concerned community members, activists, Hyatt patrons and members of the media,

In recent months, Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego has been the subject of negative attention in the wake of my personal donation to California’s Yes on 8 Campaign in 2008. I am sorry for the pain and conflict I have caused and would like to take this time to apologize, clarify my views on the matter and share some background on Hyatt’s long-standing and commendable support of the GLBT community.

The San Diego community, the GLBT community and those that support their civil rights efforts, deserve an explanation. I am not, nor was I ever, anti-gay. I am and have been in favor of Domestic Partnership and Civil Unions for quite some time. I respect all members of the GLBT community and have several gay and lesbian employees in various departments and professional levels at Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego. While I stand by my belief that as a private citizen I may make personal donations to causes and charitable organizations of my choosing, I have been reminded daily that not all such actions are correct or favorable to the company, its employees or the community.

While I am the owner of Manchester Grand Hyatt, I do not speak for Hyatt Hotels & Resorts, which manages and operates Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego and many other properties across the world. My private act and financial contribution does not in any way reflect or represent advocacy on the part of Hyatt Hotels & Resorts or its thousands of employees worldwide. Hyatt has a long history of support and engagement with the GLBT community, something we all stand by and take great pride in.

I will personally continue to welcome and celebrate diverse communities and interests, including the GLBT community, at Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego. Hyatt was the first major hotel company to offer our employees Domestic Partner Benefits and the company retains a strong track record of enforcing non-discriminatory policies throughout every hotels it operates, including Manchester Grand Hyatt. Hyatt Hotels Corporation includes nondiscrimination as part of its EEO policies and has consistently and proudly advertised in GLBT media including print, online and event sponsorship participation.

I understand and echo your desire to do business with companies that share your values and it is my sincere hope that Hyatt’s record on diversity will be judged on its merits.

With Respect & Warm Regards,

Doug Manchester