Atlanta, GA - September 30, 2025  – The Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) represents nearly 20,000 members nationwide, including thousands of Indian American hoteliers across Florida. Our members are proud American entrepreneurs who create jobs, drive local economies, and serve communities nationwide. Because Palm Bay (Brevard County) City Councilman Chandler Langevin's recent remarks directly target Indian Americans, who make up a significant portion of our membership, we feel compelled to speak out.

The recent comments made by Langevin are unacceptable, divisive, and have no place in Palm Bay—or anywhere in America. Calls to "cease Indian migration" or "deport every Indian immediately" are not only factually wrong, they echo some of history's darkest rhetoric, drawing disturbing parallels to the language of hate that has led to violence and persecution around America.

Indian Americans are proud citizens and neighbors who embody the very best of American values: hard work, family, entrepreneurship, and community service. From small business owners and medical professionals to veterans, engineers, teachers, and community leaders, they contribute daily not only to the economic vitality and cultural richness of Palm Bay, Brevard County, but also to the civic fabric that strengthens and uplifts communities.

America's strength has always come from its rich background, and attempts to demean, devalue, or exclude entire communities based on their heritage go against the principles of freedom and equality on which this nation was built. We stand firmly with the community in Palm Bay and across Florida. Hate has no home here, and we reject any rhetoric that seeks to divide us. Instead, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring every resident feels safe, respected, and valued as part of this community.

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About AAHOA

AAHOA is the largest hotel owners association in the nation, with Member-owned properties representing a significant part of the U.S. economy. AAHOA's 20,000 members own 60% of the hotels in the United States and are responsible for 1.4% of the nation's GDP. More than 1 million employees work at AAHOA member-owned hotels, earning $51.3 billion annually, and member-owned hotels support 4.2 million U.S. jobs across all sectors of the hospitality industry. AAHOA's mission is to advance and protect the business interests of hotel owners through advocacy, industry leadership, professional development, member benefits, and community engagement.