Marriott on the Move

Posted By: Joyce (12/11/2008)
Comment: I recently came across your blog and have been reading along. I thought I would leave my first comment. I don't know what to say except that I have enjoyed reading. Nice blog. I will keep visiting this blog very often. Joyce http://www.shunmigraine.com

Posted By: Stewart (12/9/2008)
Comment: I am booked again this year at the Sydney Marriott for the Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. As Mr. Mariott knows, the strategic location of his hotel (and the good rooms/service) means that it is filled every year for a week or two with gay and lesbian visitors. I was about to cancel my reservations and move to another hotel when I read Mr. Marriott's comments. I am satisfied and will keep my booking. Thank you. And, Mr. Marriott, next time please show your support next time by donating to our cause, not just by remaining silent.

Posted By: Chris (12/1/2008)
Comment: If one is a member of a church that believes one thing and uses its members tithes to support a cause which is anti-that-church in teachings, why would members continue to claim loyalty of said church?? Instead of insisting that one is pro-gay cause, why not help oust your church leaders for speaking on your behalf when it is not your own wish? If I were a member of the CLDS, and Bill Marriott, I would speaking out against my church... NOT prop 8! Which angers YOU more, Bill Marriott?

Posted By: Gary (12/1/2008)
Comment: This statement reflects a very questionable strategy. As these comments indicate, they're going to boycott anyway. The only way Mariott has to offset the loss is to make friends with the other side, give us a reason seek out a Mariott hotel as an expression of gratitude and as a means to undermine the boycott.

Posted By: judy brown (11/27/2008)
Comment: I have a gay brother and a gay sister, each of whom has been with their partner for over 30 years -- to deny them the rights of other citizens is obscene. So I WILL NOT be staying at any of the Marriott chain anytime soon. If Mormons insist on interfering in my family's life, I feel free to give their businesses a wide birth. Clean up your own house, if you expect me to stay at your hotels.

Posted By: Michael (11/27/2008)
Comment: Dear Former Customer. In one spoiled, and self centered harangue, you've: a)promoted class envy; b)attacked a persons religion; c)confused tolerance, with acceptance; d)discounted the hard work and sacrifices which the Marriotts have endured to create what they have. Further, GLBT has made incredible if questionable advances in only 25 yrs! You want what you want, and you want it now. I completely allow for your happiness; however, I am astounded that those against prop. 8 want to devalue my vote as a citizen of California. The old saw " your freedom ends where I begin" comes to mind. I refuse to have you try to legislate or promote control of my thoughts and what is sacred to me. End.

Posted By: Rudy Bell (11/26/2008)
Comment: As someone who worked for Marriott for several years, I can say Marriott has always been accepting and supportive of those in the gay community. There were several gay associates working in all areas of the hotel and most brought their partners to hotel employee functions. I don't know Mr. Marriott's personal views but as an employer, he has been good to the gay community and has offered benefits to gay couples for years.

Posted By: Dallas (11/25/2008)
Comment: OK what BIll Marriott believes are two different things! He clearly stated that the Marriott corporation did not in any way donate money to this campaign. So whaat Bill does with his own money is his own buisiness. That would be different if he used marriotts money be he stated that he did not!!!!! so what else do you want?

Posted By: Former Marriott Customer (11/25/2008)
Comment: Like many others, I am somewhat conflicted about boycotting Marriott. I have stayed at many Marriott properties, and have been a happy customer in the past. Nevertheless, I come down on the side of a boycott for the following reasons: 1. Mr. Marriott is wealthy because of his hotel chain. 2. Mr. Marriott uses his wealth to support the LDS. 3. When I stay at Marriott Hotels I increase Mr. Marriott's wealth. I am indirectly enriching the LDS. 4. The LDS is an enemy of GLBT people. 5. Only a fool would help his/her enemies triumph. I am under no obligation to support any company for any reason. I choose not to support this one. I implore none of you to so either.

Posted By: Karen (11/21/2008)
Comment: I am happy to hear this rumor clarified from the top of Marriott. After so many thoroughly enjoyable stays at various Marriott properties it is reassuring to know that i will not have to weigh my decision in the future. I applaud the fact that Marriott has devised and implemented a diversity program irregardless of the religious leanings of the Marriot Family. Bless you for your sensitivity!

Posted By: Dan (11/20/2008)
Comment: Thank you for stating your view on prop 8 in California. As a long time platinum rewards member with Marriott I was concerned when I heard news of the Marriott's involvement in this ballot initiative. I am glad you have addressed the issue. I do not think any church should donate money one way or the other on cultural issues. It is time for positive change in our country and a company like Marriott involved in social issues would not be a smart decision for the corporation or the company's board members.

Posted By: Frank (11/19/2008)
Comment: I'm a patient at MD Anderson Cancer Hospital in Houston. For twenty years I've stayed once a year at Rotary House, a hotel for cancer patients and their families which is run by Marriott. As an amendment to the California constitution, Proposition 8 takes precedence over statutory law and, as other amendments have, it can do away with domestic partnership rights including equal access to insurance for gay couples. This is a life and death matter for people like me. If Proposition 8 is used to undermine or remove DP rights, expect massive protests by cancer patients against Marriott hotels. Also expect to lose your contract at Rotary House in a very public way.

Posted By: Hitch Wilcox (11/19/2008)
Comment: Of course Marriott isn't going to support prop 8 in public. All businesses put up a united front so they dont loose business. Look at some of the wackos that didn't say there because he didn't openly support it. He runs his business like our founding fathers did: SEPARATION OF CHURCH AND STATE. People can have their beliefs, but if they are going to be in the public in any way shape or form, they have to realize they aren't the only ones out there and that other people believe differently. Guys just trying to make a living like everyone else. Go back to the basics people and stop turning everything into something big horrendus and complicated.

Posted By: Jane. (11/18/2008)
Comment: Why should Mr. Marriott denounce his personal beliefs? Why should he have to publicly state his personal beliefs? He has PUBLICLY stated his PUBLIC views regarding his company. Marriott is an excellent company - the best lodging company in the industry, and to boycott the company because of the personal beliefs of Mr. Marriott is just dumb. And do some research on Mormon tithing and what it's used for before you go accusing him of donating millions to the proposition. My lds friend has told me it goes to maintain church meetinghouses, building temples, aid for the less fortunate and other things like that. The money raised for prop 8 was donated specifically TO THAT CAUSE by the members in california. Get a clue.

Posted By: Neil Houghton (11/18/2008)
Comment: The words all seem right, however the fact remains that as a faithful LDS member I asssume Mr. Marriot still tithes to his Church. I am a rewards member, a Christian and a gay man. My Church, The Episcopal Church, spoke loudly against Prop 8 in every Diocese in California. Had it spent one penny to support this proposition officially I would have given it a short goal to repent publicly and then find a place to worship the God of Love and Welcome that I know. I love the quality of your company, but I cannot support those who oppress me. I will be watching.

Posted By: Billy (11/18/2008)
Comment: As a gay male, I am all for boycotting a corporation when that corporation had a direct donation. In this case, Marriott did not donate. If you want to boycott Marriott because Bill Marriott is a Mormon, then you need to boycott every company that a member of LDS owns stock in. If we boycott Marriott, we are sending the incorrect message.. If we boycott, make sure we boycott the correct firm.

Posted By: Chicagoan (11/18/2008)
Comment: I loved the Marriotts in Munich and Berlin where I stayed this summer. This company knows how to run hotels. That said, I'm leaning to the boycott side of this debate. Mr. Marriott was very careful to avoid stating a personal opinion about Prop 8, so I'm left to assume that he's a Mormon because he believes in the tenets of the church. That church stands for discrimination and intolerance.

Posted By: jesse (11/18/2008)
Comment: as a part of the lgbt community I am very sad and ashamed with some of your comments towards the marriott stance on this issue. I dont believe that its right to segregate or threaten loss of business just because they may or may not have the same stance or opinion as we do we need to understand that yes we have come far there is still more to go and eventually the world will see through tolerent eyes but until that time anger is definatly not the solution. if we want others to be tolerant shouldnt we first show others it first?

Posted By: Elwood (11/17/2008)
Comment: Don't we believe in seperation of corporation and state too? If you want government to be truly independent, then you would boycott Apple and Google too based on their $$ involvment in Prop 8, just for principle sake.

Posted By: Elwood (11/17/2008)
Comment: Bill is not going to destroy freedom with my money. Boycotts are effective and appropriate. Let's unite and defend America. http://www.ushmm.org/wlc/article.php?lang=en&ModuleId=10005678

Posted By: ScaredOfMormonPower (11/17/2008)
Comment: Simple, Mr. Marriot: demonstrate your good intentions by issuing a formal statement in opposition to the unequal civil rights foisted upon Californians in Proposition 8. Anything less merely legitimizes complaints of duplicity.

Posted By: Kanani (11/17/2008)
Comment: They're not the only church to back it, and it treads directly on separation of church and state. How can any church throw money into politics (undeniable, since this was directly involved with changing a ruling by the California State Supreme Court and the state Constitution) and keep their tax-free status? Remains to be seen. Good for Marriot for staying out of the fray.

Posted By: MarkL (11/17/2008)
Comment: Karen, you're way off base. "...many who've become violent..." Can you back up your assertions with facts? Yes, there have been a few instances of minor violence but they have been condemned by all those involved in the protests. It's people like you who try to inflame this further. I don't think a handful equals many. The Mormon Church is being targeted because its leadership organized to funnel over $20M in support to the Proposition 8 supporters. While it is their right to do that, it is also the right of Prop 8 opponents to boycott businesses that support Prop 8. This is an exercise of free speech on both sides. As a former Marriott employee I applaud Bill Marriott's statement. He didn't have to do that. But he should have known it would lead to these questions. And yes, a stay at a Marriott hotel, be it managed by Marriott or franchised, does ultimately enrich Marriott International and ultimately Bill Marriott who like most Mormons probably gives 10% of his earnings to his church. So it is perfectly reasonable to consider that when making lodging decisions. Marriott was one of the best employers I have worked for and I still frequent their properties many years later. But I do have to consider where their income ultimately ends up when I make my travel plans.

Posted By: walter (11/17/2008)
Comment: As a public company it is understandable that it would be unfair to donate to a cause all share holders don't support or at least don't have a chance to vote on. And to retaliate against a company that treats all customers with equal respect is not very tolerant, especially since I'm sure there are employees on both sides of the issue depending on Marriot for their livelyhood. And I'm sure Mr. Marriot feels a burden towards the company that bears his name. But hopefully we will judge the company on it's own standing and not on the opinions of a shareholder. I'm sure Mr. Marriot would not want to serve more drinks to an intoxicated patron despite their desire for it, because that would only hurt and not help. Yet it is interesting to see those same customers cry foul and seek other establishments. Sorry if we misinterpret your comments and put you on the wrong side of the fence, I think many wish we understood better so we could judge better.

Posted By: Ethan (11/17/2008)
Comment: All I need to know is that as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, did Mr. Marriott contribute anything to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints?

Posted By: Karen (11/17/2008)
Comment: Amazing how the Mormans are being targeted as the "ONLY" group or religion who voted YES on 8.,,,I'd love to see these same protestors, many who've become VIOLENT to older women and others who voted YES on 8, picket and hold rally's in front of Black Churches. MANY Churches, who value marriage as between a Man & a Woman, also Voted YES on 8,..Many Hispanics & Blacks,,,,To Boycott or picket the Marriott, and not those other churches is cowardly & hypocritical...I will continue to enjoy the Marriott properties in the future.

Posted By: Julie (11/16/2008)
Comment: I travel alot and have always enjoyed Marriott hotels. I love the friendliness of them, as well as the cleanliness and the price. I was bummed to hear (allegedly) that Mr. Marriott had supported Prop. 8. I would never stay ANYWHERE that promoted discrimination against anyone. That being said, I was glad to read Mr. Marriott's blog that he in no way funneled Marriott Hotel money into Prop. 8's passing. I also was pleased to learn Marriott's policy on domestic partnerships and their approval by the Human Rights Campaign. I will continue to stay in Marriotts. I respect Mr. Marriott's right to embrace whichever religion he chooses. Religious freedom is very important and we should be allowed to worship whoever or whatever we want. I don't agree with the Mormon Church's stand on many things, but that's my choice as well. As long as Mr. Marriott's beliefs don't get in the way of him running a business, I'll stick with him - he actually sounds like a pretty nice guy. Julie

Posted By: AHITT (11/16/2008)
Comment: When it comes to gay issues, Marriott is conveniently a Baltimore-based hotel chain that is welcoming and accepting of all travelers. When it comes to Mormon issues, Marriott is conveniently a company founded and led by members of the LDS church and fully supportive of church doctrine. Marriott can't play it both ways. Through this posting , Bill Marriott is attempting to salvage Marriott's reputation with a PR diversion. As Margaret Thatcher once said, "Standing in the middle of the road is very dangerous; you get knocked down by the traffic from both sides". Marriott can't continue to waffle. I appreciate Bill Marriott's comments. And his willingness to weigh in shows that he realizes the financial impact of an international boycott of Marriott will have - a boycott not just by gay travelers, but those who are also supportive of equal human rights. It's not personal against Bill Marriott, I just don't want any of my money supporting Hate. Good luck.

Posted By: Hans (11/16/2008)
Comment: I just stayed at a Marriot in Germany and was astonished to find a Mormon bible next to the phone. At the same time CNN reported that Mormons support the antigay movement in California. I felt quite upset. And it is more intrusing than a Mormon may understand to be forced to sleep next to a book that is linked to a movement that dislikes, or hates me, as gay. It would be more respective to just leave a note saying that books of all religions are available in the reception for those wanting. Sorry but I will avoid Marriot in the future.

Posted By: Carlos (11/16/2008)
Comment: One of my best friends works for The Marriott... It is interesting to see how some people can really make a difference and take the overall well being of the many into consideration instead of his own, regardless of background and beliefs. Too bad the few bad apples always manage to ooze negativity into everything. I am pleased with Mr. Marriott's comment, and happy that some of my friends are part of such a company. Carlos

Posted By: John (11/16/2008)
Comment: Mr. Bill Marriott: Thank you for your detailed note and Marriott's commitment to fairness in treatment of members of the LGBT community. As long as neither you personally nor Marriott corporately contributed to support Proposition 8, your personal beliefs regarding gay marriage are irrelevant. Intelligent people and churches of good will and faith can reasonably disagree on the subject of gay marriage. They become "fair game" for boycotts and protest only if they become political advocates and contributors of financial or other assistance. I do not care what you personally think about my 21 year same gender relationship as long as you and your company treat me with the same dignity as any other customer and citizen and avoid using the money I give you to work against my interests in society. As long as the Human Rights Campaign continues to be comfortable with Marriott International, I will continue being a customer from time to time. John

Posted By: AJ (11/15/2008)
Comment: It really saddens me to see, read and hear the comments about Prop 8. I believe Marriott is a very inclusive chain and tolerant of all walks of life. People are entitled to their opinions and beliefs -- whatever they may be. I respect other's points of view and I would hope the same courtesy would be given to me as well. A true statement from a believer would be as simple as this: "God loves the sinner, but hates the sin." Since marriage was instituted by God, same sex marriage just does not fit by His definition of what marriage is. These are the facts and those that are for Prop 8 just wish to preserve what marriage is and has been. I say fight for the right to have a "civil union" which can be whatever society deems it to be. But leave "marriage" as it is since it derived from a religious aspect.

Posted By: Hyacinth (11/15/2008)
Comment: Mr. Marriott, do you tithe to the Mormon chruch? If you do, then you supported Prop 8. Also, funny thing, it was only 1978 that the Mormon church allowed African Americans in. I bet they didnt say that when they knocked on doors.

Posted By: Hoda (11/15/2008)
Comment: Gay people don't hate the mormons or the marriott, but they shouldn't support an organization that doesn't support them. I recommend Bill Marriott donating to LGBT causes and maybe we will return to support the marriott.

Posted By: Rob (11/15/2008)
Comment: I am a member of the gay community and do not agree with Prop. 8 and am disgusted at what has gone on. But I solute Bill Marriott. His statement clears the air for me with all the propoganda I have been presented with. Mariott hotels is one of the best run companies in the US, if not the world. They have always been inclusive and had top of mind awareness when it comes to diversity within the company. Mr. Marriott states that his company has not given to prop 8. He may have his personal views, but that is what America is about. I have my views that may not be in conjuction with others. Although I may not agree with his personal beliefs, whatever they are, I am not going to boycott a company that runs on the principals of inclusion. Many of us have parents that do not believe in gay marriage. Are you going to try and take down their companies because they do not agree with your views? Bill Marriott stated that Marriott hotels did not give anything in support of prop 8. What he does with his money is his business.

Posted By: John (11/15/2008)
Comment: As I read the hate filled comments from the radial wing of the gay community it is almost sad in a way. To say you people are hypocrites is an understatement. Where are the protests at the black churches, where 70% of blacks voted yes on 8? Even your chosen leader, President Obama is against Gay marriage. And I agree with him fuuly and I am a conservative....you know, one of those evil people you have so much hate in you heart for. Any protests against the President Elect ? Nope of course not. Once again, just come out and admit you HATE religion and also Conservtism. We all saw on the news with out own eyes the poor woman who had her cross ripped from her hands and had it stomped upon by the radical protestors. Good touch! I have friends that are gay who are in favor of Civil Unions that have the same rights as heterosexual couples. We just want the definition of "marriage" protected; one man and one woman. A lot of them are flat out embarrassed by the actions of some of you. Extremism and radicalism from ANY side is destructive and bad. You people who are WRONG need to check yourself. The voice of the majority of voters in CA. have spoken. you LOST!!! Deal with it. The language of Prop. was determined to be legal by the courts BEFORE it was placed on the ballot. I will stay at a Marriott any time!!!

Posted By: charlie (11/15/2008)
Comment: I have to say I am disappointed in the gay people posting here supporting Bill's position. It is not enough for us to be "tolerated" and welcomed at Marriott hotels. That is offensive. If that is all you as gay people require from the straight world you have some serious internalized homophobia to deal with. Let's hear Bill state unequivocally how he feels about Prop 8. Is that too much to ask? I will respect him for his views even if they are not the same as mine.

Posted By: Debbie Chong (11/15/2008)
Comment: As a technology provider to the hospitality industry, which includes many of Marriott's clients, we thank you for being vocal and taking a position on this important issue. As an industry that has many LGBT people that comprise its leadership and workforce, it is important to have leaders like you make it known what your and the Marriott's policies are with respect to diversity and equality for all.

Posted By: Melissa (11/15/2008)
Comment: It is amazing to me that in this great country, where we prize the precious freedoms of religion and speech, that a man can be criticized and attacked for his personal beliefs and religion. Mr. Marriott didn't contribute to the Prop 8 campaign. His personal beliefs are irrevelant, because those are his PERSONAL beliefs. Each of us has that God given right to believe and think as we choose. The problem comes when someone ACTS on beliefs that hurt others. If you research this issue using CREDIBLE sources, you'll see that none of the LDS Church's tithing money was used for Prop 8. This has been repeated time and time again in above posts. Why would you ask one man, one solitary citizen of this great nation to denounce his personal beliefs? That's as un-American as you can get! It's amazing to me how a community such as the LGBT community who promotes tolerance and love can be attacking other Americans who have different beliefs than their own. In addition, when so many compare this to the civil rights movement of the 50's and 60's, I'd like to hear from an African American who lived through that....to see how it makes him or her feel. 70% of African American's voted YES on Prop 8, therefore they CLEARLY don't see it as a civil right's issue. I'm just so saddened to see such hate and bigotry from a commnunity who proclaims tolerance and love.

Posted By: Doug (11/15/2008)
Comment: I am tired of the mormon church and other religions imposing their false beliefs on society. I will no longer be staying at any of the Marriott hotel chains, so that my money is not going to those who support the propagation of hate.

Posted By: Paul Crabtree (11/15/2008)
Comment: Here is a website of letters from Mormons leaving the church because of its support of Prop 8. http://signingforsomething.org/blog/ I would stay in any hotel owned by these people.

Posted By: charlie (11/15/2008)
Comment: To Kiki: one more thing. yes there are civil unions on the books in California granting full marriage rights. however in every state that had civil unions on the books and then passed measures like Prop 8, the right wing successfully sued those states to overturn those civil unions as well. each court case cited the ballot initiatives. until we have full marriage rights our families are in danger.

Posted By: charlie (11/15/2008)
Comment: I do not deny anyone the right to have any views regardless how repulsive. so do not deny me the right to have mine and be disgusted with the Mormon Church and its hate filled agenda. As stated in my prior post I have written boards of all the national gay sports organizations asking for a boycott of Marriott. The response has been overwhelmingly supportive. Marriott should be hearing from them soon. The tennis league alone has over 40 tournaments per year. Our demand here is very simple. Bill needs to condemn Prop 8 and financially support its removal. I respect his opinion if he disagrees. His plea that his company is "tolerant" is offensive. I suppose gay and lesbians are only tolerated if we spend money at Marriott. Tolerance turns to bigotry if we decide to fight for our full civil rights. That's offensive. At this point I don't care about being "tolerated" or "accepted". The only thing I want my enemies to feel is fear.

Posted By: Marc Adams (11/15/2008)
Comment: Is there a listing of companies which do not have any christian/anti GLBT employees/owners/vendors so that we can solicit their businesses exclusively? I believe all of our money would be better spent on those companies regardless of what they peddle.

Posted By: 5280homo (11/15/2008)
Comment: Hey kiki...every hear of the conservative christian groups like Focus on the Family and the American Family Association? They boycott companies that support Gay causes all the time. Stop being a hypocrite and know the facts before you post.

Posted By: TJ (11/15/2008)
Comment: Too bad Marriott Hotels is being dragged into something that is totally separate from their business of providing a fine hotel service for everyone regardless of how they define themselves. FYI - Mormons have been persecuted and singled out since day one. This Prop 8 backlash is just another example where Mormons are targeted by another angry group. I think the logic of indirect association through Bill Marriott's tithing is an easy way to scapegoat Mr. Marriott. A tactic used by some pretty despicable historical characters with grave results for the innocent.

Posted By: Spencer (11/15/2008)
Comment: Your business earns it's revenue from all peoples from all walks of life. You are the largest monetary supporter of the Mormon church. I'm sorry i cannot support your hotel any longer. (I arrange travel for almost 75 consultants) We will be moving our dollars to Hilton.

Posted By: Norm (11/14/2008)
Comment: The comments here are too numerous to read but I must ask, have you, Bill Marriott, supported the right of your gay and lesbian employees to marry? Have you considered supporting gay marriage as an equal rights advancement, despite what your religious dogma provides? After all, most religions, even yours, have evolved over time and changed their principles to reflect the enlightment of their leaders. Have you thought about how you square your gay marriage beliefs with your support of inclusiveness for your employees and customers? Are you speaking out in this fashion now to avoid a drop in revenues rather than to merely educate all of us to what you've done for your employees and customers in the past? And speaking of your past benevolence, if you search deep within your conscience do you really support inclusiveness? Or if it was more profitable to to exclude all gays from employment and all gays as customers, would you exhibit the same courage of inclusiveness? If not clear, these questions are meant for you and your conscience. One day I suspect you or others leading Marriott corporation will welcome the decision of the courts that permanently ensures equailty of marriage. After all, it will be good for business.

Posted By: Derek White (11/14/2008)
Comment: Mr. Marriott, I don't understand why it's so shameful to discriminate against behavior. Homosexuality is not a civil rights issue. A person cannot control his/her race, national origin, gender, etc. However, a person does control with whom he/she has sex. According to the Holy Bible, which is one of the holy books Mormons ascribe to, homosexuality is a sin. Christians must love the sinner and still hate the sin. We can be tolerant of homosexuality, just as we are tolerant of other sinful behaviors. We are all sinners, and if we weren't tolerant of sin we'd all perish. If God Himself weren't tolerant of our sin, none of us would be alive. Even so, we can still speak out against homosexuality, even vote against it when different laws are proposed. You can call me a bigot, but I'm just speaking what the Bible says. If I'm a bigot, then so is every Bible-believing Christian and so is God Himself. And most of us who believe what the Bible says about homosexuality in no way would support Fred Phelps-type of behavior. God loves homosexuals, even though he hates their sin, just like he hates my sin and your sin and everyone else's sin. Don't "water down" your faith -- being "tossed back and forth by the waves" (Eph 4:14) -- actively supporting sinful behavior just to appease those who would threaten to boycott your company. "If you don't stand for something, you're gonna fall for anything." (John Mellencamp)

Posted By: finished with Marriott (11/14/2008)
Comment: I will not be staying at Marriott or Ritz-Carlton hotels. The statement about separating the personal religious from the business is belied by the fact that Bill Marriott puts a copy of the Book of Mormon in every room. Mostly I resent being treated like an idiot by a CEO trying to have it both ways.

Posted By: Zachary Gleason (11/14/2008)
Comment: I am ashamed that Bill Marriott is not standing up for the principles of the gospel. He should have supported proposition 8 if he believes in the leadership of our church. I understand not utilizing the company either way but personally you should follow what you believe in. Your father would be rolling in his grave to hear the lack of conviction, please everyone, non-sense you posted on this blog.

Posted By: Fairness (11/14/2008)
Comment: I am a CEO of a company and we have hosted our sales meetings (300+ reps, marketing support, etc.) several times. If you had supported this anti gay amendment we would have stopped patronizing you. I am gay and proud. However, you cant be responsible for others in your faith and I accept your statement and will continue to give you our business. You are smart to realize that gay business people, quietly spend massive amounts of money.

Posted By: Jay (11/14/2008)
Comment: Myself, being a gay man, I do understand what people are saying about Mr. Marriott tithing to a church that has helped strip people of their civil rights. However; We need to keep in mind that there are also many GLBT friendly franchisees that will be affected. If you really want to boycott Marriott boyott the franchisee who donated $25,000 to support Prop 8. Do not Boycott an entire company who is obviously GLBT friendly. Do your research and find businesses that do support your rights. I believe we in the GLBT community have every right not to give money to companies that do not have our best interest at heart. However; I do not believe in boycotting companies that have always been GLBT friendly. Mr. Marriott did not donate to Prop 8. His franchisees did, therefore boycott them, not the chain as a whole.

Posted By: marriottrules (11/14/2008)
Comment: fred hatebush-exactly what rights were taken away? I can't find any information anywhere that states specifically, uniquivocaly, and legally what rights were taken away? And, you missed my original point but that's about what I expected.

Posted By: @yahoo.com Diversity - yeah, right (11/14/2008)
Comment: Sure, Marriott's diverse - they'll take anybody's money - and then give it to the Mormon Church to oppose gay marriage - Just look at the Diversity page on Marriott's website - by diversity them mean different races - no mention of equality of sexual orientation

Posted By: Shame on Mormon Haters (11/14/2008)
Comment: Mormons who pay their tithes to the LDS church are no more responsible for the passage of Prop 8 than Americans who pay they taxes are responsible for the deaths of 10 of thousands of Iraqis who have been killed by the US military. Lumping Mr. Marriott in with the people who supported prop 8 is like George Bush declaring war on all of Islam for Muslim involvement in 9/11. If Mr. Marriott is guilty by your logic, then anyone who pays US taxes is guilty of war crimes.

Posted By: Marsha (11/14/2008)
Comment: It is one thing to have a personal belief that God intended marriage to be between a man and a woman. But when you vote to take away the right of someone else, that is wrong. As a member of the Mormon church, you are just as much at fault. You also believe that God ordained polygamy as marriage in the Celestial Kingdom. I know Mormons weren't happy when they had to quit practicing it on earth in order to get statehood. BTW I use to stay at your hotels for business, but between the paid for porn you have and your churches stand on prop 8 I will take my business elsewhere.

Posted By: Mark Hales (11/14/2008)
Comment: The only group I see that is full of hate is these gay groups bashing Mormons!

Posted By: Carrie (11/14/2008)
Comment: Why are you speaking your "truth" now? Where was your voice before Nov. 4? I travel weekly for business and have not stayed at a Marriott Hotel in over a year. How is your business and your church separate when the last 3 Marriott Hotel rooms I stayed in had the Book of Mormon in them? This is what set me off. Knowing that all Mormon's in good standing within the church must tithe 10% of the their incomes to the church, one can only quess over the years how much money you have personally given a church that supports inequality to some Americans. The Mormon Church pumped millions of dollars into the Yes on 8 campaign, and by association you are quilty of supporting it. I have read many comment on this blog about why "Gays" are targeting Marriott. I happen to be a 45 year old heterosexual women with a husband and 2 small boys and I live in Idaho. This is not just a Gay issue, to me this is the Civel Rights Movement of our generation ! Boycott on.

Posted By: Lucas (11/14/2008)
Comment: Mr Marriott, thank you for clarifying your position on this issue. I do not think that you or LDS church members are guilty of bigotry or hate like some people are suggesting. If we believe in guilt by association Americans would have to give up their citizenship since they are part of an imperfect institution. I am not willing to do that. Instead I will work for change and understanding in those institutions.

Posted By: Gregorio (11/14/2008)
Comment: I am getting so tired of the homosexual community trying to force mainstream society to accept their perversions. From now on I will be boycotting any establishments owned or operated by homosexuals.

Posted By: kiki (11/14/2008)
Comment: What a shame that one is not allowed to have an opinion or be supportive of something they belive in without being a target for revenge. I THOUGHT THIS WAS AMERICA. Mr Marriott, I want you to know that I will continue to be a faithful marriott customer regardless of your stand on prop8. I realize that you can please some of the people some of the time but you can not please all of the people all of the time. I voted yes on prop 8 and would do it again in a second. Funny thing is that friends who voted no on 8 would now vote yes because of the tizzy fit the gay community has thrown. California has voted on this subject twice and both times has won. It is my understanding that the gay community has all the same rights as a married couple through the domestic partnership laws, with the exception of property transfer. Is it just the title of marriage they are after? To my understanding it was and thats why I voted yes. I believe marriage is between a man and a woman for the purpose of pro ceation, something that biologically a homosexual couple can not achieve. Maybe we should boycot companies that voted no on prop 8 or supported it financially in any way. Well that would just be WRONG. As a catholic I don't think with hate in my heart. I respect people as individuals and value the differences between us because we are ALL different.

Posted By: you can't have it both ways (11/14/2008)
Comment: you can't have it both ways, Bill. Are you willing to publicly denounce the church's indirect actions?

Posted By: weak stand (11/14/2008)
Comment: We all have personal and public positions on political issues. However, The prophet was not ambiguous on this one. Mormons publicly and privately should have one opinion: YES ON 8! This just shows no solidarity to the Mormons in California that had to do the dirty work. That is fine that you have money to hide behind but Mormons with far less resources than you are being publicly destroyed for taking a stand. Way to back us up!

Posted By: Bill (11/14/2008)
Comment: Sounds like he's making the same argument the Mormon church is making...namely, they didn't support Prop. 8 "DIRECTLY " - boy that sure leaves Marriott with an "easy out". Let's see, donate millions and millions of dollars to the Mormon church, and then the Mormon Church spends his millions and million to support Prop. 8 (but again, not directly). Sounds like Mr. marriott should be a politician or a tax lawyer.

Posted By: BOYCOTT MARRIOTT (11/14/2008)
Comment: If Marriott has donated money to the Mormons then that money has been used to deny equal rights for gays - plain and simple - BOYCOTT MARRIOTT!!!!!!

Posted By: Landis (11/14/2008)
Comment: Bill. I have been staying at your various properties over the years, with an annual amount of $5,000 spent just this year. I will now switch to another competitor. As a visible minority, I hope you understand my stand point that I am not going to let my dollars go to a company tainted with discriminatory practices and behaviours.

Posted By: Scott A (11/14/2008)
Comment: Why did hundreds of religious groups and churches fight to pass prop 8? Because long before marriage was part of government they believe it was a sacred institution established by God creating a family unit where children of God could be born and raised. These are the rules God established. Not Man. Genesis Chapter 2: 23 And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. 24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. The government has provided defined relationships such as civil unions that afford people similar rights regardless of sexual orientation. They can still do more in this regard, but it should not come under the umbrella of Marriage. God loves all of his children but simply does not approve of all the choices we make, yet he allows us the freedom to make those choices. My heart goes out to all people who have tendencies towards behavior that is not in harmony with what God has taught us, me included. These tendencies can go well beyond gender orientation. However, we must all remember that we will be held accountable for our thoughts, words and deeds in relation to how they comply with God's commandments. As faith bearing people of all religions we have a duty to stand up for and share what God has taught as truth. Someone's disbelief in God or their lack of putting forth effort to learn what he teaches as truth, will not eliminate them from being accountable. God has provided a means for us to overcome this world through his Son Jesus Christ. I believe that to be true for everyone in this world and it is up to each and every one of us to exercise faith in Christ and to feel of His love and truth. Marriage between a Man and Woman was instituted by God, who am I to change His definition? I am still called upon to "love my neighbor" as well as "Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you." It is very possible to love everyone and still oppose gay marriage. The two are not opposing forces. God bless all of us!

Posted By: Jack (11/14/2008)
Comment: I am not sure what else I can add that has not already been said in terms of Bill Marriott's financial donations supporting Proposition 8. Marriott has been my prefered choice of lodging for business and pleasure for many years. Mr. Marriott, I can assure you that the money I spend at Marriott each year (which averages over $3,000 annually, not including business trips,) will now go to your competitors. You want to speak with your money, let me show you how I will speak with mine. By the way, supporting the GLBT community is just good business. If you were not making money off of us, you would not have a diversity program, so please do not pat yourself on the back too hard with your "inclusivity."

Posted By: Mike (11/14/2008)
Comment: It doesn't matter that the hotels are franchised. All hotels with a Marriott or related flag have to pay franchise fees to Marriott for the name. I understand that Marriott didn't contribute directly to the Yes on 8 campaign but they are still part of the organization that did and must be held accountable.

Posted By: Alaina Smithee (11/14/2008)
Comment: I'm so pleased to read your statement. I am a loyal customer of the Marriott brand and would have boycotted had you been a financial supporter of prop 8. Some of these comments say that since you are a member of the Mormon church, you are guilty by association. I disagree. I think it took a lot of courage for you to make this statement, and I know it probably didn't sit well with your church and you're probably getting a lot of backlash from them, too. Yet you still did the right thing. Good for you. No on prop 8!

Posted By: Kyle (11/14/2008)
Comment: Thank you for standing up against hate. Please continue to spread the word of equality.

Posted By: fred hatebush (11/14/2008)
Comment: marriottrules. this is the chicken and egg thng. you say the hatred and intolerance that the gay community has shown your church is despicable. well, we could say the same thing about the mormons. we weren't bothering you at all. live and let live was our attitude. it was the mormon church that pressured its' members to donate money and time to take away my rights. now we're returning the favor. too bad.

Posted By: My opinion (11/14/2008)
Comment: For everyone who is saying they are going to boycott Marriott properties because the Marriott family has giving money to their church, should now research every place you spend money and make sure that those places aren't owned, run by, or operated by a family or organization that supports something you do not believe it. That's ridiculous! Just because Bill Marriott chose to correct false statements in the media does not give you all the right to judge him as an individual. If your previous stays at a Marriott property were satisfactory then how in any way is his personal opinion a reflect of that hotel's business? Many hotels are franchised out and you may now be taking away money from a person or family that supports your views. Many of you should think before reacting so harshly.

Posted By: charlie (11/14/2008)
Comment: Sorry this doesn't fly. The Mormon church funded Prop 8. Even is you or Marriott did not directly contribute to Prop 8 your funding of the church did so indirectly. I am a member of several gay sports organizations in New York City, tennis, volleyball and football. Many of us travel around the country for tournaments. Marriott's have often been host hotels. I will be writing the boards of all the parent organizations demanding that Marriott not be host hotels. I respect your right to worship as you please but your church has hurt tens of thousands of families inflicting its "morals" on them. Shame on you and your church.

Posted By: Nicksterguy (11/14/2008)
Comment: It does not matter whether I am gay or straight. But I will ask all people who are posting items - did you read what Mr. Marriott said? He separates his religious and business. Enough said. Yes - he is the largest contributor to the Mormon church. And Yes, he supports diversity and has gay employees. But he never says how he feels - so NEITHER side should assume before making the negative comments.

Posted By: BOB D. (11/14/2008)
Comment: Mr. Marriott, While you proclaim this formal diversity program, don't you realize that in its nature it is inherently discriminatory? Let's say that you had a nickel root beer stand that gave good service and had a good product. Now another root beer stand opened across the street from you that did not have as good of a product as you and their service was not as good. Some corporate entity mandated that your customers had to patronize the root beer stand across the street because it was minority owned. How would you feel knowing that your hard work is not paying off simply because you are a different color or sex? Shouldn't people buy the best product at the best price not matter what color or sex they are? I believe that we all learned a lesson the other week. If you work hard enough you can achieve anything regardless of what you look like.

Posted By: Jim P. (11/14/2008)
Comment: This is very interesting. I have been thinking about leaving Marriott because of the pricing is not competitive. As a Gay male who grew up in Bethesda blocks from the Marriott's knows that the family always had good values towards others and out family. This is very interesting. Mr. Marriott clearly separates church and business. You don't see this very often. The HRC would not give the corporation a good rating if not they were open to the Gay and Lesbian work force. I never see hotel employees that are unhappy. Gay, Straight or any Color. With this said, we live in the USA and we have choices. If one feels the need to change hotel companies so be it. But don't except anything of lesser quality because we as American's work hard and need a great place to lay our heads down at night. There is a major chain out there that targets gays with their Pride Packages but they are very condescending because their packages are all about Gay Stereotypes, bars, and drinking. Who knows life is complicated. I think I will stay. Thanks for the enhancements in the Marriott Rewards program for Platinum members

Posted By: Ed (11/14/2008)
Comment: I'll never go to a Marriott again. You think we are simplton idiots?? Your grossly inflated executive salary BILL, is thithed to the Mormon church..which then uses the tithed money to support prop 8, and take away basic human right. Therefore BILL, you directly contributed and supported prop 8. All the diversity programs in the world wont make up for the fact that as a mormomon, you are supporting anti gay mormon activities with your salary. No if and or but's. You cannot, and will not be allowed, to clain seperation from personal/business activities while you tith huge sums of money to that organization.

Posted By: Andrew (11/14/2008)
Comment: Mr. Marriott, you sure deserve an award of a profile in courage. I am stunned and appalled on the attacks on you, your faith and your company for something voters did in both California and Florida. Both of those states went for Obama and yet these bans passed. Do not these extreme leftists understand to single out one group or individual for what voters did is so astronomically wrong?

Posted By: Robert Walsh (11/14/2008)
Comment: Thank you for your thoughtful words. I have been a Moaariott customer for many years. I am a rewards member for over a decade. I came to your site hoping to find some information about your position. I was flabergasted to see it so prominently placed. Your words are heartening. It was intention to withdraw as a Marriott customer if your firm had anything to do with denying me or any other self-respecting gay man or woman the same CIVIL rights as any other American. You have mader my life easier and I will continue to priase your services as I have always done. You run a superb organization. I only wish that others in your religious community would come to understand that yours is also a history of hate and discrimination iby the majority of believing "Christians" at the time of your founding. You had to flee to the wilderness to get your freedom and equality. I have always admired the Mormons I have met and with whom I worked for their family values. I always thought you were good people. I still do in manmy ways but I believe your church leadership (like my own former denomination Roman Catholic) is behind the times in terms of the evolving understanding of human nature. I was deeply hurt that people fpr whom I spoke up thirty years ago in my community could turn their backs on my civil rights issues. I priased Mormons to my co-religionist as decent human being when others reviled them as ignorant fools. I supported the equal rights campaigns and although a white man even belonged to the NAACP. I was SO very hurt that at a time those folks were finally getting their shot at the American dream in such a remarkable way, they would turn around and on the same day be majority voters against my rights. That hurt a lot. When I learned that 77% of the financial support to pass this Proposition came from Mormons at the behest of their church leaders, I was appalled. Thank you for your stance. It must have an act of courage to do so on such a volitile issue.

Posted By: Omaha Gay Village (11/14/2008)
Comment: Bill Marriott did not donate money in support of Prop 8. See this link for more info. http://www.sfgate.com/webdb/prop8 See! No Bill Marriott I think the GLBT Community can leave him and his company alone.

Posted By: Joe (11/13/2008)
Comment: It is truly amazing that in our country today a person, company or organization that participates in the elective democratic process would be harassed to the extent we have seen since the passgae of Prop 8. Come on people get real, there is no constitutional right involved here, the founders intended for this type of matter to be settled via state's rights, thus the democratic process, not judicial fiat. The court's decision to previously intervene in the matter of gay marriage versus allowing the people to decide as a state (ala Massachusetts) was just wrong from the start. The people of CA have spoken in a fair & square process and that is just thge way it was meant to be handled, regardless of which side of the fight you are on.

Posted By: MarriottRules (11/13/2008)
Comment: I will be boycotting Hollywood, Broadway, and any other business that accepts "gay money." The hatred and intolerance that the gay community has shown my church is despicable. Although I don't live in California any slight against a Mormon anywhere in the world is a slight against me.

Posted By: Dan (11/13/2008)
Comment: Dear Bill, Thank you for your thoughtful statement. I logged on to your website to cancel my rewards account and was determined never to stay in one of your hotels again. I had heard (erroniously) that Marriott provided financial support to the passage of Proposition 8. I travel every month on business and I will keep my Marriott awards account and continue to stay in your fine hotels. I will also let my friends, family and colleagues know that they shouldn't boycott Marriott. I am sure that many of your employees are also comforted by your words. I know that many people in your church probably condemn you for your principled stand and I admire your willingness to make this very public statement. Proposition 8 was a shockingly biggoted attack against the constitutional rights of millions of americans and those who supported it will be judged very harshly by history. And to all those below who insist that Bill Marriott is complicit with the passage of Prop 8 because they didn't see him support the No on 8 campaign, I think your logic is a bit flawed. If you truely believe this line of reasoning then I would like to know what you are doing to stop the genocide in Darfur. And what steps did you take to stop the drug war in Mexico??? Nothing??? Okay, then we don't need to listen to you because you are clearly a supporter of genocide and drug violence.

Posted By: Mark (11/13/2008)
Comment: Thanks, Bill, and thanks Marriott! I will go out of my way to stay at a Marriott now. It is mature and appropriate for a business to stay out of political causes. I'll let my gay friends know about your neutral stance because I think some of them are confused.

Posted By: Jim Dury (11/13/2008)
Comment: Reminds me of the Coors boycott years ago. The company got wise and made nice but the money still goes to the family. They in turn finance far right organizations. Coors as a company might be okay but to this day I still don't buy Coors products. Perhaps habit more than conviction but purchasing a brand, like staying in a hotel, are habits.

Posted By: Fred in CA (11/13/2008)
Comment: 70% of all african-americans voted for prop8, therefore, I think that a boycott of all african-american businesses is both logical and justified.

Posted By: Debi Lynn (11/13/2008)
Comment: Dear Sir,Thank you for your statement concerning your companies stance on diversity. It has become increasingly difficult to separate my feelings from my ideals. My father raised me to believe that every person has a right to their beliefs and that it is my responsibility to stand up for their rights. When that persons beliefs are used to strip away my rights, it becomes a battle that I dare not lose. The constitution was created to protect minorities from the tyranny of majorities, the failure here is that this issue was ever voted on. That said sir,though I wish that you had spoken out before the election, your religious beliefs are yours and have been yours I imagine for most, if not all, of your life. Your church has long been clear on its stance concerning homosexuality and because of that I will never become a member. It is my responsibility to live a life that is true to the gifts that I was given by my creator, one of which is my sexuality. My wife is a platinum card member and uses many of the Marriott hotels while traveling for her work, whether she continues or not will be her choice. If given a voice, we must speak. When given a chance to speak, we must find a way to be heard. Stop screaming, stop hating,start listening. To those who stood up for my right to marry my soulmate, thank you and bless you. To those who voted to take away that right, it will never stop me from loving her, it will never change who I am. Bless you. Mr. Marriott, I hope that you read this, or at least have someone from your company take the time to do so. Your beliefs are yours sir, but please remember that each choice we make we carry with us forever. Thank you

Posted By: mark (11/13/2008)
Comment: I am just waiting for my post. The last time I asked a question more posts appeared.

Posted By: fred hatebush (11/13/2008)
Comment: Jason, the point I was trying to make is that the gay community is merely using the same tactics that have been used against us for years. That list was a list of companies which have been targetted by anti-gay groups for something as simple as allowing domestic partner benefits, putting sexual orientation in their anti-discrimination policy, etc. Why do we protest in front of LDS churches? For the same reason the anti-gay forces protest at anything gay-related. To get the publicity. We know we're not going to change any minds any more than those anti-gay people are going to change our minds. I agree that opposing opinions should be able to co-exist. But "they" do not want to co-exist. Anita Bryant started it in the 70's when she started that big national campaign to try to overturn gay anti-discrimination laws around the country. Amazingly, she used the same bogus arguments about children and schools that people are still throwing at us today. The bottom line is we don't want you to like us, we don't want you to accept us, we just want you to leave us alone. And it never fails that the right wing anti-gay christian types always stick their noses in our business. Prop 8 is a perfect example. The right of same sex marriage has no impact whatsoever on people who aren't same sex couples. The people of California were pretty comfortable with the idea, in fact. When Prop 8 first started, it was behind almost 20 points. But then the advertising started with its lies about churches losing their tax exempt status and your 1st grader being taught about gay marriage. Something like 70% of the money for that campaign came from mormons, who were encouraged to do that by the mormon church. Had Prop 8 been defeated, Ray and Rita Redneck would have gone on with their lives unaffected. But the passage of Prop 8 had a huge negative impact on my life, and the lives of hundreds of thousands of other gay Californians. And of all the odd things, to be discussing this on the Marriott Hotel website. We should be talking about our favorite vacation destinations or something.

Posted By: gt2bme (11/13/2008)
Comment: How long does it take to see your comment posted?

Posted By: Travel Agent (11/13/2008)
Comment: I understand and appreciate your comments Mr. Marriott. As a travel agent, I support the fact that you run your business separate from your personal beliefs. I will continue to sell your properties to clients.

Posted By: J (11/13/2008)
Comment: I'm confused as to why so many people are saying Mr. Marriott should've spoken out about Prop 8 even before it was passed. Do public figures need to take a stance on every single item on every single state's ballot? Come on, get real here, people.

Posted By: C Hough (11/13/2008)
Comment: It's sad that this new found concern did not manifest until AFTER Prop 8 passed. Where was your compassion for equality and inclusion when your congregation of hatred was moving forward with principles that you "say" are not part of what your church teachings?

Posted By: kam (11/13/2008)
Comment: I really just have 2 questions to ask Mr. Marriott: #1 Do you personally SUPPORT gays' right to marry? and #2 How much money do you give to the Mormon church? Neither of these 2 critically relevant questions were answered in his eloquently written letter above. If he won't say he supports gay marriage and if he admits to tithing 10% of his income, its pretty clear he is part of the problem, regardless of what his company "says" to the contrary in order to secure a successful business reputation. In this case, a boycott of HIS company would be both logical and justified.

Posted By: kaz (11/13/2008)
Comment: I'm no longer staying at Marriott, and ensuring my staff no longer uses your establishment while on work travel - there are certainly other options, ones that aren't run by someone who supports the removal of civil rights from minorities. For the Gay & Lesbian community and friends it's simple. Spend your dollars elsewhere, and until then, we too will be spending our money elsewhere.

Posted By: Kate Blue (11/13/2008)
Comment: For a 2 year period, I worked at a Marriott in Los Angeles with a person who went through a gender reassignment from man to woman. Even though most employees and management had never encountered anything like this, she was supported 100% in her transformation and is today happily living as a woman. This all took place 10 years ago, long before Prop 8 was an issue. Marriott stood by her and allowed her to follow her need to transform her outside persona to match how she felt inside. I don't know how many companies would have taken on the task of emotionally supporting her and educating the rest of the staff. Yes, the Marriott family are Mormons. Bill Marriott was born into the Church, his father and grandfather were Mormons, like many of us that are born into religions that our parents chose. You can't blame the guy for how he was raised anymore than you can blame someone for being gay or Asian. The fact is that the Marriott takes care of ALL OF THEIR EMPLOYEES REGARDLESS OF THEIR UNIQUE QUALITIES. And another note, they employee MANY folks with disabilities. Their reservation centers have a good amount of blind employees who use high tech equipment that lets them hear the voice of the customer in one ear, and the words they are typing and the place they are on the screen in the other ear. This technology is expensive, and training is extensive, but again this is an example of how diverse Marriott really is. So for those of you who JUST HAVE to boycott the Marriott, just remember that the last person who placed your reservation or wake up call may have been gay or blind and living independantly with full medical benefits because of the Marriott.

Posted By: Philip (11/13/2008)
Comment: I also have just cancelled my Marriott Rewards membership. I will no longer be staying at Marriott properties due to Mr. Marriott's indirect support of Prop 8 through the LDS Church. I will urge my business and personal associates to do the same.

Posted By: Brad B (11/13/2008)
Comment: Why is the gay rights lobby targeting Mormons? Not one cent of tithing money support Prop 8. Why not target Catholics, Blacks or Latinos that voted 2 to 1 for it? In the words of Rodney King, "Can't we all just get along?

Posted By: mario (11/13/2008)
Comment: My partner and I have been together 10 years. We go on vacation twice a year for 2 weeks at a time. We often bring 10 to 15 of our family and frinds along with us, and The Marriott is normally our first chose. I guess some other hotel will be getting our gay money now. Thanks but no thanks Mario in Florida

Posted By: Lee Rosenfield (11/13/2008)
Comment: This year I spent almost $4000 at Marriot Hotels. Next year, ZERO!!! I will not stay there again due to the owner's personal support of Prop 8 in California. Shame on him and I will not allow myself to be used like this. My money will go to hotels whose owners support support my right to marry my partner. Shame on Bill Marriot.

Posted By: Jason (11/13/2008)
Comment: Fred "Hatebush": I am not sure what that list of companies was regarding. I agree with you that plenty of people have protested against gay rights historically, and probably do so today. While I disagree with these protests, I do not understand targeting mormons or any other religious institution. These anti-gay protesters spew hate, just as targeting these religious institutions is hateful. What does protesting in front of a church seek to accomplish? They cannot overturn prop 8. They will not change their moral beliefs just as you won't change yours. I understand the frustration, but the vehicle to express it is misguided. The LGBT community should focus efforts where change can be affected rather than beating their collective heads against a rock that won't move. Attempting to make everyone be the standard bearer for gay rights by boycotting companies doesn't seem to be rational. Opposing views can exist in harmony. I realize you never expressed the need to boycott Marriott though.

Posted By: Martha Lowry (11/13/2008)
Comment: The Boycott is on. The CEO of Marriott if he is a LDS church member tithes income to his church which directly led the fight to take away the rights of many. Mariott - never again

Posted By: fred hatebush (11/13/2008)
Comment: I'm shocked that you're shocked that people still resort to "blacklisting" today. We're just taking a page from their playbook. The "yes on 8" campaign contacted donors to the "No on 8" campaign, and demanded a similar donation to their side, or face exposure and blacklisting. Anti-gay groups protest at gay events all the time: gay funerals, gay pride parades and festivals, etc. And here's a list of companies that have been targeted by anti-gay groups for being "pro-gay." These were not companies that engaged in political activity. Usually, their "offense" was to offer domestic partner benefits or include sexual orientation in their non-discrimation policy. Ford was targeted for advertising in gay publications. It's funny how opinions on things like "freedom of speech" change when the shoe is on the other foot. 7-11 AARP Abercrombie & Fitch ABC Adolph Coors Aetna Allstate Amazon.com American Airlines American Express American Red Cross Anheuser-Busch Apple AT&T Avon B. Dalton Booksellers Bank of America Bausch & Lomb Bayer Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream Best Buy Big Brothers/Big Sisters Blockbuster Borders Books Bristol Myers Squibb Campbell Soup Capital One Catholic Charities of San Francisco CBS Cigna Cisco Citigroup Clorox Continental Airlines Countrywide Cox Communcations Charles Schwab Chevron Coca-Cola Colgate-Palmolive Comerica Costco Crest Dallas Morning News Dell Delta Airlines Disney Land Disney World Dole Dow Chemical Eastman Kodak EBay Eli Lilly Estee Lauder Fannie Mae Federated Department Stores Ford Foundation Ford Motor Company Gap General Electric General Mills General Motors Gillette GNC Goodrich Tires Goodwill Industries Google H&R Block Hallmark Cards Hallmark Entertainment Harley-Davidson HBO Heineken Hewlett-Packard Hilton Hotels Hyatt Hotels IBM Intel John Hancock Johnson & Johnson JP Morgan Chase Kinko's Kraft Levi Strauss Lexmark Liz Claiborne Loews Lucent March of Dimes Marriott McDonalds McGraw Hill Meals on Wheels Metlife Miami Herald Microsoft Miller Brewing Monsanto Motorola MSNBC MTV Nabisco National Geographic Nationwide Insurance NBC New York Times Newsday Nextel Nike Nokia Nordstrom Northwest Airlines NPR Orient-Express Hotels Qwest Pennzoil-Quaker State Philip Morris Phizer Pillsbury Pitney Bowes Procter & Gamble Progressive Insurance Prudential Reebok RJ Reynolds San Francisco 49's San Francisco Chronicle Sara Lee Seagram Sears Seattle Times Shell Oil Company Southwest Airlines Starbucks Starwood Hotels & Resorts Target Texas Instruments Timberland Time Warner United Airlines Universal Studios United Way Verizon Viacom Volkswagen Walt Disney Co. WAMU Washington Post Wells Fargo Wyndham Hotels Xerox

Posted By: OdeLenu (11/13/2008)
Comment: Thank you for clarifying your position. I appreciate your support for the right of individuals to enter into a union or contract with each other, otherwise known as marriage or civil union. I will continue to stay at your hotels and will recommend your company to others who might be concerned how and with whom they spend their money.

Posted By: Scott A (11/13/2008)
Comment: What a shame that Mr. Marriott had to even address this issue. Where was the passion against Prop 8 before the voters in California went to the polls? The campaign against Prop 8 raised almost 17 million more dollars than the campaign for Prop 8 and yet the people of California voted in favor of it. The hate and bigotry displayed by people against prop 8 since the election has passed is the epitome of hypocrisy. We live in a democracy where freedom of speech is a priceless piece to the process. Why do those against Prop 8 feel it is only reserved for them? Those against prop 8 are ruthlessly targeting anyone they feel may have a different opinion. This is reckless behavior which is further dividing this country. I am a Gold Marriott member and will continue to support Marriott.

Posted By: Jeff S. (11/13/2008)
Comment: Of course the Marriott family would not contribute to Prop 8 using their own names. As members in good standing with the Mormon church they are required to fork over 10% of their income to the LDS. How do you think they have become such a political and financial powerhouse over the last several decades?! Anyone that values the rights of gays and lesbians should never patronize a Marriott Hotel again.

Posted By: Dave - San Rafael, CA (11/13/2008)
Comment: Reading between the lines of your post, it would appear that while you did not directly financially support Yes on 8, you did support the LDS Church and its goal on this issue. You are entitled to your opinion, but I take it very personally. Probably one of the most important and happiest events in your life was your marriage, and you probably largely define yourself as being a married man and a husband. But consider what sort of societal respect you would get if instead you were "civil unioned" and you had a life-long "civil partner." It sounds dumb, and it is dumb. I was fortunate enough to have been able to marry my partner of eleven years this August in California. While we have been California registered domestic partners for many years, I can tell you that there is no emotional comparison between being "DPs" and being married. No one ever congratulated us on the day of our DP agreement. But now (until annulled) our marriage is recognized and respected by family and friends as a major life event. Our hope was that with permanent acceptance of same-sex marriages in California, then similar rights in other states and in federal law would eventually follow. Whatever you personally feel about same-sex marriage, the scientific evidence is that a great many people are wired at birth to be attracted to the same sex. For me to marry a woman would be as alien to me as it would be for you to marry a man. Your marriage to a woman confers legal rights such as hospital visitation, inheritance without estate taxes so that you don't have to sell the house to pay the taxes when a partner dies, and survivor's Social Security benefits. I don't understand why I should not be entitled to those same rights. The Yes on 8 campaign, reportedly financed 77% by LDS Church members at the behest of the Church, was conducted with factual and moral dishonesty that reflected very poorly on the Church. The Church worries that children being taught about the acceptability of same-sex relationships will end up gay. That is scientifically false and laughable. The Church worries that children raised by same-sex parents will be disadvantaged. That too has been proven to be false in scientific studies. The most important ingredients are loving and caring parents. Gay couples raising children are a fact of life. How, then, is it better for the children if the parents are ostracized and denied the legal protections that opposite-sex couples are granted? California voters, with overwhelming Church backing, on November 4 endorsed turning thousands of children into illegal offspring of unmarried partners (there is a word for that which I won't use). You well know that the declared intent of the LDS Church in this matter is to impose Church will on literally millions of Americans. The Church is entitled to its beliefs, but it is not entitled to prevent me from the same rights as you. How would you feel if your most significant expression of love and devotion to your spouse - your marriage - was judged inferior and illegal by voters? It is incredibly disheartening that this was decided by a popularity contest. It makes a mockery of state and federal constitutional protections of minorities. While Marriott's high Human Rights Campaign Equality Index scoring is laudable, it is not enough to earn my patronage when my support would financially benefit a CEO that apparently condones treating me unequally. Additionally, Mr. Brent ******, CEO of your major partner, Huntington Group, which owns many Marriott properties (Courtyard Marriott, Fairfield Inn Marriott, Residence Inn Marriott, and Spring Hill Suites), was a major cash contributor ($25,000) to Yes on 8. His contributions have further tainted the Marriott name. Mr. Marriott, I ask that you go out of your office right now and talk to a few of your gay employees. Ask them how they feel about your apparent ambivalence to their happiness and security. Tell them that you don't think they are equal to you, that they don't deserve the same protections of marriage that you have. By not explicitly differing with your church on this issue, you have already said as much. In your position of influence in your industry, in society, and in your church, you have an opportunity to affect positive change for millions of gay and lesbians against whom your Church, and millions of other Americans, actively discriminate. If you want to show leadership, the damage can be at least partially undone. You can first educate yourself, as I have partially tried to do, on why the Church position is so unfair and damaging. You can publically proclaim your support for same-sex marriages. You can prove your sincerity by donating generously to any of a number of groups that are fighting for equal rights for gays. Unfortunately, undoing the damage done by Mr. ****** will be more difficult unless he is willing to follow the same path. Lacking that, his actions will continue to smear the Marriott name. The LDS Church has really botched this and severely damaged its reputation. Hopefully, it will quickly correct its position as it eventually did with polygamy and allowing blacks into the Church. Your leadership within the Church would surely facilitate this.

Posted By: Victoria (11/13/2008)
Comment: Dear Mr. Marriott: I've read your blog and have only this to say. As a straight, heterosexual happily married woman, I searched my soul before I voted NO on Prop 8. I prayed and meditated serveral times during the weeks leading up to the election. I had several conversations with my gay co-workers because I wanted first-hand imput on what Prop 8 meant to them. I really didn't make up my mind until I stepped up to the voting booth. And now that I've voted no, I'm beginning to feel sorry that I did. I never once imagined in the 21st century we would be using terms like "Blacklist," against people who don't think like I think. I have many co-workers who also voted for prop 8 and after the elections we all hugged and agreed we would stand behind our new president elect. I really don't understand the gay community being so hateful. I understand the feeling of defeat and disappointment, however there are other legal, more respectful avenues to take. If blacklisting is the route the gay community is taking on this, I wish I could take my vote back. And by the way, I am a 52 year old black woman with a bisexual son, and I will continue to patronize the Marriott hotels.

Posted By: Melissa Mitchell-Hooge (11/13/2008)
Comment: Thank you, Mr. Marriott, for your stance on this issue! It's much appreciated.

Posted By: Mona (11/13/2008)
Comment: Thank you for your honest approach, I am saddened that others think differently. When those who are writing these hateful things put no money into their own campaign themselves. What it comes down to is this, you had a free right to vote deal with that. We also had a free right to vote, I'll deal with my vote. If you lost was not the money's fault or the fact of not having enough. It was because your campaign was what it is. And with that, don't be mad at the winning vote. Money had anything to do with my vote. And for a losing campaign you would think you would be a good sport, your teaching our children what it's like to hate and be mean. Infact your hurting your own campaign those who were listening to you, are re thinking their vote. I was always taught if you want to get someone's vote do it in a civil way. Intergrity comes with a vote, It takes alot to stand up for what you believe even if you don't win. Takes heart to lose, takes heart to win..

Posted By: PasadenaGayborhood.com (11/13/2008)
Comment: The simple fact that you are a LDS member suggests your support of the church's position on Prop 8. Simply put, you tolerate their actions and position. For the Gay & Lesbian community it's simple. Spend your dollars elsewhere. We have plenty of choices and see no reason to further line your pockets and increase LDS tithe.

Posted By: Patrick Carkin (11/13/2008)
Comment: While it has been a few years since I've stayed at a Marriott, it is a chain that I have used many times, especially the Marriott owned Fairfield Inns. In the next six months I will be traveling across the entire country. I will not be staying at any Marriott Hotels. I appreciate the fact that Marriott has offered domestic partnership benefits to their employees and that it didn't contribute directly to the Prop. 8 movement. However, silence is consent. If Marriott had wanted to separate itself from the Mormon Church's actions they should have spoken out before the election. They did not. The reason this is important for them vs. another hotel chain is that Marriott is clearly linked to the church. Its leadership undoubtedly pays tithe. No one expects you to end your membership in the church. But because of the connection the standards are higher when an entire segment of the population is being oppressed. You were duty bound to speak out. For this reason I will take my business elsewhere.

Posted By: gypsy (11/13/2008)
Comment: Honestly you people are ridiculous. Our very own president-elect is personally against gay marriage and attended a church for 20 years that spewed anti-american hatred. Still he managed to get elected because most people believe that he can keep his personal life and his presidential duties separate and fair. Why is it so far fetched to believe that Bill Marriott cannot do the same. His business supports the gay community. What business is it of ours what he believes personally? He is following the law and then some when it comes to his business. That is what is relevant. If you boycotted every business that was owned by someone that disagreed with you in one form or another there would be nowhere for you to do business. Boycotting the Marriott would be akin to cutting off your nose to spite your face.

Posted By: Tyler (11/13/2008)
Comment: Now wait a minute here Rimbaud, are you telling me that because I didn't give my money to the No on 8 campaign, that I've automatically classified myself as a bigot bent on stripping the basic human rights of others? Applying the same "logic" you must somehow be responsible for starvation in Africa if you haven't contributed to funds set up for the purpose of ending starvation. You must also by default be responsible for spreading infectious disease and are likely pro cancer if you haven't contributed to various medical research and development funds. I'm sick of people (especially those in the minority) trying to force feed me their agenda when I have no interest in force feeding mine upon them.

Posted By: Todd L (11/13/2008)
Comment: This is a nice sentiment. I've been a platinum member for at least the last 5 years, and I am pulling out. For all you straight folk trying to make the point that Bill should not be punished for the works of the LDS Church, I think you must be nuts. Bill and many others in executive as well as managerial positions at Marriot give alot of money to the institution that used smear, innuendo, and outright falsehood to crush the hopes of a small group of people. Shame on all of you. Goodbye!

Posted By: Jason (11/13/2008)
Comment: I would like to ask those that protest against Prop 8 supporters, why do they protest against religious organizations and not against the black and latino community who were the overwhelming majority that passed Prop 8? Is it because that would be politically incorrect, but attacking conservative Christian institutions in en vogue? I do not understand why the blame for passage is laid solely at the door of religion. And please do not use the excuse that their monetary support is the reason for singling them out. Votes are what count, not donations exclusively.

Posted By: Deborah (11/13/2008)
Comment: Shame on you Bill Marriott. You chose $ over what you know to be morally right.

Posted By: Fred Hatebush (11/13/2008)
Comment: Ah yes, it's the age old "slippery slope" theory that heteros love to throw at us. "If gays are allowed to get married, why can't a father marry his daughter?", etc ad nauseum. That is a red herring you guys throw out there that you don't even believe yourself. But thank you for the offensive comment comparing our relationships to incest.

Posted By: S. Rimbaud (11/13/2008)
Comment: Bill: If you didn't give money to support NO on Proposition 8, then you are part of the problem.... Neutrality on an issue implies a tacit acceptance - particularly in the business world, where Neutrality equals Money. The adage, "If you are not part of the solution, you are part of the problem" applies to you.

Posted By: Troy Young (11/13/2008)
Comment: I do appreciate your comments Bill as well as your companies way of doing business. It does disturb me when what seems to be further attack continues. However, I must point out that the LDS Church did in fact donate to the Prop 8 Yes campaign. Here is the link that allows you to research who donated and for what side. don't be fooled by the $2,000.00 donations that look small, since there are many such donations made by different wards and levels within the church. http://www.sfgate.com/webdb/prop8/?appSession=15146615926273&RecordID=&PageID=2&PrevPageID=2&cpipage=22&CPISortType=desc&CPIorderBy=City It takes the members of society to make change. It also takes the members of organizations, such as the LDS Church, to change views and rules that hurt others. The members of the LDS Church have done this in the past, and I am sure will do so in the future. Change has to happen to keep up with the ever changing times. Bill and others of the LDS Religion and all other religions, I urge you to to look inside yourself and your organizations and do what is right. Fight for what is right and push your religion to do what is right. Otherwise, as in the past, you may find yourself on the receiving end of persecution for who you are and what you believe.

Posted By: kevin (11/13/2008)
Comment: Too bad your interest in basic principles of respect and inclusion doesn't include moral truths!

Posted By: Jason (11/13/2008)
Comment: I find it ridiculous the ignorance and hypocrisy of some people. First off, some people fail to realize that Marriott does not own hotels...they manage them. Hotels are individually owned and for all those that boycotting may know, they may be boycotting an LGBT owned hotel. Second, why are people not allowed to have personal beliefs anymore? I do not support gay marriage, but I do not seek out any "No on Prop 8" supporters and boycott them. They have the right to their views. The counterargument is that "Yes on Prop 8" supporters took away the human rights of others. If moral issues are not supposed to be legislated, why can't those that love their siblings marry? Why can't women and men have more than one spouse? Why can't parents marry their children after they are of legal age? Why is there a legal age to marry at all? These are all legislated moral issues that I don't see anyone throwing a fit about. Just like 30 years ago no one would accept homosexual marriage as "normal." The entire species would cease to exist in ONE GENERATION if homosexual was the default lifestyle for all unless some non-natural policies were instituted for procreation. Interesting...

Posted By: Shannon Coulter (11/13/2008)
Comment: Mr. Marriott, while I appreciate the statement of support you've made, I regret to say that I will no longer be able to patronize your hotels. The level of financial support the Marriott family has provided to the LDS Church over the years makes me feel as if I would indirectly be supporting that church, and I simply cannot do that in light of the hateful and intolerant way that church has recently attacked gay people through Proposition 8. While some may be satisfied with claims of "unconditional love," it is not lost on me that members of the Mormon church are required to give the church ten percent of their income (tithe) and that the entire business school at Brigham Young University is named "The Marriott School." I will no longer indirectly support these institutions by bringing my business to you. I hope that at some point you will reconcile your alleged belief in "respect and inclusion" with your religious affiliations.

Posted By: joe (11/13/2008)
Comment: I appreciate the transparency of this conversation, bill. But i ask you to put yourself in the shoes of gay people: we were trying to live our lives with dignity in California and marrying the people we love. Then your Church, which you tithe to, asks its members to support Prop 8 and take away our civil rights. What would you do in our situation? Or other straight readers? I am sure you would be mad as we are. And I am sure you have tremendous influence in the Mormon Church: if you call the Church President, he will take your call. I applaud the diversity policies of the Marriott Corporation, but that is good business and within your own self-interest. For now, until you stand up to the bigotry of your church and impact on my life , I will take my business to the Four Seasons, Hyatt and Hilton, and urge my business colleagues to do the same.

Posted By: Mike R. (11/13/2008)
Comment: Prop. 8 was an issue before California Voters. They and they alone voted for it to pass. Marriott didn't do it, the LDS Church didn't do it. The boycott people are barking up the wrong tree. The LDS Church did not contribute one dime to the pro Prop 8 cause. Members did of their own free will. The Church asked them too but it was their decision. None of Bill Marriott's tithing went toward this effort.

Posted By: Sarah (11/13/2008)
Comment: Thank you, Mr. Marriott, for being the voice of reason amidst a throng of hypocrites. You are a living testament to your faith and a role model to business-owners, consumers and Americans everywhere.

Posted By: Amy (11/13/2008)
Comment: Mr. Marriott:I am happy to learn so much form your blog, especially this sentence"Take care of your employees, and they'll take care of your customers, who will come back again and again."Many managers working in hospitality industry have said:"Customer is God".In some what, it is right,however,when one hotel pays more attention on profile than staff motion and requirement, it will lose at last.

Posted By: Ray Utenis (11/13/2008)
Comment: Amazing, I have read through the posts and find that people can be so passionate about one subject. I firmly belive that one is not gay by choice. It is a biological makeup. That in my mind makes it a crime to discriminate against anyone, regardless of race, sex or religion. I also support health benefits for same sex partners as well. I travel a lot and stay at Marriotts alot. I have always felt safe and secure anywhere in the world. I belive that Bill puts out a great product and will continue to patronize his hotels.

Posted By: Dennis D. Friedrichsen (11/13/2008)
Comment: My partner of 21 years, a Platinum Rewards member, and I will continue to stay at Marriott hotels and resorts. Enough said!

Posted By: John (11/13/2008)
Comment: I too wish to voice my support for Bill Marriott and the company his father founded. There is a saying, "Those who aren't for us are against us," but there is another saying which reads, "Those who aren't against us are for us." All too many are willing to alienate those who lack the courage or conviction to actively oppose the tyranny and oppression of others. As a consequence, they risk adding to those who would support the tyranny and oppression of others against them. While I believe it to be appropriate to express disappointment that Marriott did not take an active stand against the passage of Prop 8, I don't believe it to be appropriate or wise to condemn them for not doing so. Many seem eagar and hasty to criticize Bill Marriott and encourage a boycott against his company for no other reason than that he is a member of the Mormon Church which actively campaigned against the civil rights of Californians and the civil rights of others in every other state that the issue of same-sex marriage or same-sex domestic partnership rights has been placed on the ballot. Such seems absurd given his company's track record in supporting the GLBT community when other businesses did not and still do not. While I am disappointed that Marriott didn't openly oppose Proposition 8, I nevertheless believe it would be cutting off one's nose to spite one's face to punish Marriott when one looks at the good the company has done and continues to do in supporting the GLBT community and not opposing it.

Posted By: A Lifetime Platinum member (11/13/2008)
Comment: Stop whining. I worked, albeit briefly, for Marriott Corp while going to college in Washington, DC. It was a character builder - not because of the job, but because of the pride, integrity, and dedication to duty literally everyone working with me demonstrated. Read Spirit to Serve and understand the tenets Marriott is built upon, and perhaps you will understand what Marriott is all about. It ain't about the politics, folks... NONE of us have ever been discriminated against in a Marriott, and NONE of us ever will be. Cut the guy some slack, work to get Prop 8 (and Florida's Amendment 2) passed next time, but remember you have never been better treated, or felt more welcome, than when you've walked into a Marriott.

Posted By: Hotel Reservation (11/13/2008)
Comment: Very nice and informative post abou Marriott.

Posted By: Stuart (11/13/2008)
Comment: Ignorance abounds in this blog over things that people can't seem to research themselves and take all things based on media soundbites. How naive, how illogical, how stupid, how tragic! So let me see if I get the jist of these silly threads. LDS church is "evil" because they use tithing funds (10% of members donations) to denounce Prop 8. WRONG!!!! LDS church is showing bigotry because as a religious entity it should allow an immoral act? Should all religions accept that marriage-the most sacred act under the heavens should be "given" as a right to ALL? What harm does it have on generations? It will weaken the home, which in turn will weaken society to the point of collapse. Duh, do we really have to experiment with this to understand the downside of our society? We already see the effects of this. Let me put it in these terms. The greatest and most complete term of any human existence is to marry and produce offspring. IN that is the greatest joy and the greatest happiness. There is NO EQUAL. You can't produce offspring by having two women married together and two men married together. It is impossible to produce the GREATEST and most complete measure of any human existence by any other way then by marriage between a man and a woman. Offspring is produced by marriage between a man and woman. Duh!!! How more simply does it need to be said?

Posted By: Peter (11/13/2008)
Comment: There is a big difference between a person's personal beliefs and private world and how they interact with those with whom they come into contact in the public sphere...in this case the business of hotel management. Bill Marriott seems to be showing a great deal of respect to all and treating all with dignity and fairness in his business dealings. Why challenge his personal belief and world views? We're all entitled to them as long as we don't go into Hitler/Stalin mode. Put the shoe on the other foot, should the large number of (not all) devote Mormons, Catholics, Protestants, Muslims, and others traditional folks boycott all movies with gay actors, businesses with gay leadership, restaurants with a gay owner/hostess/waitress? I wouldn't want to do that. I loved "Chariots of Fire"...the lead actor was gay, but he was a very good actor...and probably a good person. My niece is an author. She is a lesbian. We're good friends. I am not going to boycott her books. I had an employee that with AIDS. I did all that I could to make work and life easier for him. I think you will find respect for others is a principle for all of those who put theology not only in their minds, but work deep into their hearts, and out through their actions. I think there are likely some unique words/ideas/phrases/concepts/values/challenges/protections in the GLBT community. Would this community feel comfortable (for the sake of inclusiveness) adding Catholic priests, Mormon missionaries, pentecostals, and people that own more than 3 guns (smile) to the list of those protected by special "hate crime" laws? I think not. I once asked my Dad about the Christian Church of many denominations that I believe in: Why doesn't the God we believe in set things straight. His response: "Maybe he wants to see if we can get along despite our differences...." For now the majority of many people like the idea of marriage. The majority of people also seem to be more sensitive to the GBLT community. Is the glass half full or half empty?

Posted By: Amelia (11/13/2008)
Comment: Bravo, Mr. Marriott. Thank you for taking care of your guests and your employees. Thank you for support domestic partner benefits and for fostering a workplace that promotes equality and values employees for their work ethics; not their gender, race or sexual orientation.

Posted By: Bert (11/12/2008)
Comment: I have always enjoyed staying at Marriott hotels. I was please to see Bill's comments on Prop 8. Many businesses and ski resorts have gone on my boycott list (plus the entire states of Utah and Idaho) ... Marriott Hotels are not among the businesses I will be boycotting.

Posted By: Mark (11/12/2008)
Comment: I deeply respect your comment regarding prop 8 in California. I've been a long time Marriott customer and would have had to reconsider my loyalty had you responded differently on this issue. This isn't a "marriage" issue it's a human rights issue. In 25 or 30 years we're going to look back and ask ourselves how we could have been so narrow minded. Just like we did with slavery, the inprisonment of Japanese Americans during WWII and other such similar narrow minded things. You have my respect. I'm at once very proud of our country that we could elect and African American, but also deeply saddened that so many in the State that I love are still so prejudiced.

Posted By: Kris (11/12/2008)
Comment: I find it astounding that there are people who will not stay at a Marriott now because Prop 8 passed. Accusations of hate and bigotry would fly back in anyone's face who doesn't stay at a Marriott because Prop 8 passed. From one who is not against gay marriage.

Posted By: Victor (11/12/2008)
Comment: Nice to read Mr.Marriott's email. Thanks for the clarification; even though its a Business move, its a nice gesture. But listen out to the frustration of many and the intention behind boycotting marriott hotels. This is a RIGHTS movement: if you and your brothers'/sisters'/parents' marriages were one day nulled and declared void and meaningless, what would you do?? PAUSE & THINK for a minute before reading on.... you'd try every means to fight. You'd expect people in powerful positions to take a stand, to take your side. Given a middle-class mormon spent $50,000 of his own savings to help remove somebody else's rights based on his religion's beliefs, isn't it natural for people to be scared, to be sceptical of any high-profile mormon with deep pockets? and if they had a choice to spend $200, wouldnt they spend it on a business thats clearly non-mormon??? "separating my personal faith and beliefs from how we run our business.".. doesnt that pretty much state his personal belief?!!! "Take care of your employees, and they'll take care of your customers, who will come back again and again." - isnt this more of a business strategy then? This is a for-profit business.. Maybe what we gay people want, is for high-profile businesses that claim to be gay-friendly, to ACTUALLY TAKE A STAND, and be REALLY gay friendly. and if takes a little boycotting to push to that, so be it! what do y'all think?

Posted By: Janeal (11/12/2008)
Comment: I wonder how many individuals (or groups) might already boycott Marriott properties precisely because the company provides domestic partner benefits and supports various LGBT organizations?

Posted By: Craig B (11/12/2008)
Comment: Wow, such hateful and hypocritical thoughts on this subject. Those on here that are practicing the religion of liberalism and espouting its virtues of enlightenment and open-mindedness continue to shun those that have a differing view than theirs. I have even more respect for Marriott for following his religious beliefs in his personal life but being able to separate them from his business. Unfortunately, many on here cannot. To demand Mr. Marriott to speak out against his religion because yours disagrees is an absolutely incredulous thing. Please, truly enlighten yourselves and realize that there are others that disagree with you and that doesn't make them any more closed-minded than you with your demands for them to accept your beliefs.

Posted By: Rob (11/12/2008)
Comment: Although I applaud the sentiments expressed here by Mr. Marriott and Marriott's diversity programs, directors of publicly traded corporations have legal fiduciary obligations (above and beyond those of typical citizens) and, as such, must avoid potential conflicts of interest. For that reason, directors must disclose affiliations so that shareholders and stakeholders may evaluate potential conflicts of interest. A director who has membership in a church that has taken, as a matter of public record, a strong political stand (especially one that was opposed by many Republican and Democratic lawmakers) may unfortunately call into question his or her ability to act in the best interest of shareholders and other stakeholders. This is especially interesting when the church (through its members and allies) influenced the normal democratic process though advertisements built on false premises.

Posted By: Craig (11/12/2008)
Comment: I really just have 2 questions to ask Mr. Marriott: #1 Do you personally SUPPORT gays' right to marry? and #2 How much money do you give to the Mormon church? Neither of these 2 critically relevant questions were answered in his eloquently written letter above. If he won't say he supports gay marriage and if he admits to tithing 10% of his income, its pretty clear he is part of the problem, regardless of what his company "says" to the contrary in order to secure a successful business reputation. In this case, a boycott of HIS company would be both logical and justified.

Posted By: GraciesDaddy (11/12/2008)
Comment: "...the owners and franchisees of our hotels are independent businesses that make decisions for themselves." WHOSE name is on the front of the hotel? This "Franchisee Cop-out" doesn't wash until the FRANCHISEE'S name is on the front of the hotel!

Posted By: Jason Smith (11/12/2008)
Comment: I have always found the Marriott hotels to be of the highest quality and they usually have the best customer service. To think that you would even have to write this message is amazing. If gay people are going to ban certain businesses, why don't they stick to California where a majority of the people, who arent even mormon, voted for the passage of Prop. 8. I will continue to stay at the Marriot.

Posted By: Xen Nicolaidis (11/12/2008)
Comment: Why are all these people taking their anger out on Marriott? My partner has worked for Marriott for years and there is not one thing about the company that is against any lifestyle. They even support and donate to the Human Rights Campaign and also sponsor LGBT recruiting for the company. Anyone accusing the Marriott's for supporting anything related to Prop 8 is WRONG. This company is very supportive of the gay community. Boycotting Marriott and its brands because of Prop 8 is like boycotting the Catholic Church because you don't like a Catholic lady's wallpaper. These comments are narrow minded and hateful, Marriott IS NOT. WE SUPPORT MARRIOTT more than EVER. A huge THANK YOU to Bill Marriott for his blog, and for his MANY YEARS of diversity training within the company and his continued respect and support. Mr. Marriott IS NOT THE MORMON CHURCH. Open your eyes, people.

Posted By: Jeanne (11/12/2008)
Comment: I am absolutely appalled by some of the comments I'm reading on this blog. I am a straight woman, but strongly support gay marriage, but I want to know how the fact that Mr. Marriott belongs to the Mormon Church implicates him in the passage of Prop 8? As many commenters before me correctly pointed out, $0 of the tithing money was used in the Church's campaign...it was all private contributions from individual members of the organization and it is clear after this blog post that Mr. Marriott was not one of them! Also, why are so many people targeting the Mormon religion? I haven't heard of anyone boycotting the Catholics, who also supported the passage of this proposition. In addition, everyone seems to be forgetting that Marriott International is a PUBLICLY TRADED company. Mr. Marriott and the Marriott family do not own it by any means - the PUBLIC does. And in no way is the company Mormon-owned, as so many have erroneously stated. And, although many of you say that the dollars customers spend at Marriott hotels are being used by the Church, that is entirely false. If you did your homework, you would know that Marriott is a management company -- they do not own their hotels. The OWNERS of the hotels are the ones who make money off the guests. Marriott makes its money through franchising and management fees they receive from these owners. And, finally, why is it so important that Mr. Marriott denounce this issue publicly? Last time I checked, as Americans, we have the right to vote whichever way we want and keep our decisions private! What makes him any different than any other American citizen? This is all absolutely ridiculous and I can't believe the ignorance and audacity of so many who are blaming a man who happens to follow a religion you may not believe in when the passage of this proposition truly falls in the hands of the voting citizens of California. The majority of Californians voted for it to pass, so why don't you take up your issues with them?

Posted By: Terry Veazey (11/12/2008)
Comment: I'm a 45-year-old straight man in a committed 25-year marriage to a woman, and we will never stay in a Marriott again. I agree that Mr. Marriott's tithe to the Mormon Church helped pass Prop H8.

Posted By: Darren (11/12/2008)
Comment: 20 years of a formal diversity program surely speaks louder than support or non support of Prop 8. As a gay man, I will continue to utilize the services of the Marriott Chain and will continue to speak out against the Mormon Church....but the two are separate.

Posted By: Steven Marsden (11/12/2008)
Comment: Wow, it's not enough that Mr. Marriott has stated that he does not support Prop 8. Now the hypocrites commenting above want him to denounce the LDS Church. First off, the lies spread above are baseless and without evidence. Tithes of LDS members were not used to support Prop 8. Maybe all of you above should do some research before you open your mouths and show your ignorance. The people commenting above are a perfect example of those who advocate free speech, that is, until that speech contradicts their viewpoint, and then they want that speech shut down.

Posted By: Fred Hatebush (11/12/2008)
Comment: I'm gay. I live in the Bay Area.I was married, now I'm not, thanks to Prop 8. I think I can safely say I'm pretty much a "ground zero" gay man, and I say give the guy a break. As far as I can tell, the "church" only donated a paltry $2000 to the Yes on 8 campaign. Almost all of the mormon money came from church members who were pressured into donating money and time for the campaign. The fact that Bill Marriott DID NOT donate to Yes on 8 speaks volumes, considering that he could have been a high profile, deep pockets donor. I'm sure he received more than one call from church officials asking for his support. Whether he agrees with same sex marriage or not is irrelevant. To punish someone for thoughts or beliefs instead of action is simply un-American. I think the guy deserves a pass on this one.

Posted By: Jeff (11/12/2008)
Comment: Wow, how pathetic that in our democracy Mr. Marriott is being forced to make such a post. Mr. Marriott should be applauded for his company's support of domestic benefits and the LGBT community. And, those boycotting Marriott and protesting churches should be ashamed. No rights were taken away by the passing of Prop 8. California law continues to ensure that domestic partnerships have the same rights as a marriage. You have lost no rights. As a faithful member of the LDS Church, Mr. Marriott clearly supports the centuries old traditional definition of marriage between a man and a woman. Stop trying to FORCE your moral views onto society to change the definition of marriage. Intimidation and fear-mongering will not change the vote of 52% of California voters. In sum, you shouldn't be boycotting Marriott, you should apparently be boycotting democracy.

Posted By: Mark (11/12/2008)
Comment: Nice sentiment, but I'm now reluctant to support any business with ties to the Mormon or Catholic Churches. Or any business tied to the Yes on Prop 8, for that matter. It would be immoral to support these business when I can support less destructive businesses with a loving heart and my money. It's amazing to me that people are surprised when there is a backlash to their unethical behavior.

Posted By: Rose (11/12/2008)
Comment: Dear Mr Marriott: Although I commend you on having company benefits for Gay and Lesbian employees, it does NOT change the fact that you have not taken a position on Prop 8. If you are not for it, are you against it? There is no middle ground here. If you tithe to your church, than you ARE contributing to the fight against equality. Maybe you can take a stand against the church to keep there noses in the spiritual affairs and out of the political world. What happened to the separation of church and state?? Our personal,religious beliefs should be just that.

Posted By: Paul (11/12/2008)
Comment: Mr. Marriott, I appreciate your comments and remember well my being the guest of your mother and father at the Horatio Alger Awards honoring your father at the Waldorf in New York many years ago. You were there. Through my mother who served with your mother at the Kennedy Center, I learned to know and and respect you and your parents as people of honesty and unquestionable integrity. I have the utmost confidence in your statement's honesty. I believe I am correct in stating that no tithing funds were spent on any part of the program to support Proposition 8. Although the church supported it on doctinal grounds, all monies contributed came from private contributions. I suspect that applies to the Catholic Church as well. I stay at Marriott properties over 60 days per year and will continue to do so. The Marriot Corporation is an example for all corporations. I know your employees are very loyal and are taken care of for their service and dedication to the corporation.

Posted By: Nicole B (11/12/2008)
Comment: Today I canceled my Marriott reservation for this weekend. While I applaud the company's HR policies & openness to LGBT customers and events, it isn't enough to mitigate my personal sense of responsibility. I would feel a responsibility for my meager vacation dollars contributing to tomorrow's campaign to remove somebody's civil rights based on one religion, even if only a small amount of it makes its slow circuitous and perhaps unintentional way through some executives' church tithes to do it. Believe in anything you want. By all means, support the causes you believe in. But I choose to not monetarily support your support of this cause. My belief is that freedom of religion in this country includes freedom FROM religion. I'm a straight married woman living on the east coast with no close LGBT friends. But prop 8 hit me hard. Its mean. Its a blow to love, and commitment. Its a step toward legislating a Christian/Mormon version of Sharia law in the U.S. There's absolutely no rational, practical, non-religious reason for it. I just don't get it. Guess I'd need faith for that. Glad I don't. Marriott hotels are usually nice and a good value. Until prop 8, I was actually developing a sort of brand loyalty. :-(

Posted By: Rob (11/12/2008)
Comment: While Mr. Marriott might find solace in fact that he did not "directly" support proposition 8 and that it was accepted by public vote, he should further consider that a large portion of the public was intentionally misled by truth-distorting advertising (primarily paid for by Mormon wealth). A BYU law professor recently concluded (about the pro-prop 8 advertisements), "In summary, the arguments used in 'Six Consequences ... If Proposition 8 Fails' are false". Furthermore, while Mr. Marriott rightly claims that Marriott International embraces diversity and the LGBT community (probably to optimize profitability), he has not publicly demonstrated support against proposition 8 (probably due to his personal normative arguments) "this clever form of tacit approval only fuels hatred. Furthermore, the public does and should have an interest in the "private" affiliations of influential leaders (who exercies inordinate social power) of great corporations. For example, I would not support any organization whose leader was a member of certain intuitions that attempt to reduce or eliminate human rights.

Posted By: Melissa (11/12/2008)
Comment: Mr.Marriott, by tithing the mandatory 10% to your Mormon church you have in fact support the hateful, bigoted prop 8. Shame on you. I will NEVER again spend MY hard earned money at a Marriott hotel.

Posted By: Leon (11/12/2008)
Comment: CANCELED MY REWARDS PROGRAM TODAY: Mr Marriott has a voice, and had the opportunity to speak out against his churches funding of repealing the rights of citizens in the stat of California. He could have denounced his church's decision to spend MILLIONS of dollars to REPEAL the civil rights which had already been granted to citizens - something I don't think has ever before been accomplished in our great country's history. He was silent before prop 8 passed, and NOW - he just wants to make nice talk about the Marriott company. Read his statement - NOWHERE does he denounce proposition 8. Let me spell this out for anyone who still does not understand. IF YOU WANT TO OPRESS ME, OR MY FAMILY, I WILL NOT GIVE YOU ONE PENNY OF MY MONEY. I've cancelled my trip to Sundance Film Festival out of fear of giving one cent to a Mormon owned business. They can have Utah, let me keep the rest of the country.

Posted By: Maria Petrova (11/12/2008)
Comment: Mr. Marriott, you are a good man. Thank you. God bless.

Posted By: no-man (11/12/2008)
Comment: Many commenters assume that the LDS church used tithing money to support Prop 8. In fact, donations were made by individual church members, separately from their tithing. The church did not raid its tithing funds and hand over $20 million to the Prop 8 organization. So it's incorrect and misleading to accuse Mr Marriott of supporting Prop 8 because he pays tithing to the church. If you want to boycott Marriott hotels because he is a member of the LDS church, you might first check out the religious affiliation of other leaders of corporations in the hospitality business. Are they Catholic? Evangelical? If so, are you going to boycott them too because Catholics and Evangelical church leaders supported Prop 8? By the time you finish this absurd exercise you may have no hotel chains left to patronize.

Posted By: Melissa J Lucett (11/12/2008)
Comment: Mr. Marriott claims not to have "supported" the hateful, bigoted prop 8 in CA. However, by being a member of the mormon church and tithing 10% as is required, he did in fact support prop 8. No Mr.Marriott, nice try though. I will NEVET again spend MY hard earned money supporting your churched barand of hate & discrimination.

Posted By: Adrian (11/12/2008)
Comment: Dear Mr. Marriott, I am reassured to learn that you empathize with the feelings and needs of our gay and Lesbian friends. Distancing yourself from the LDS Church in this way is certainly helpful to the cause. But surely it would have been even more helpful, even courageous, to announce your feelings on this matter before the actual vote--when your declaration of principle might have had a positive impact on the election. Coming now, your words raise the possibility--however unfair--of opportunism.

Posted By: Matthew (11/12/2008)
Comment: It's likely, judging by his faith, as to what he actually believes. But remember, believing in something and supporting something do not necessarily have a direct relationship. The problem with something like Prop 8 is trying force someones vision of "morality" on everyone else. I do not necessarily believe Mr. Marriott should have such believes if he does, however, if he does it is what it is. HOWEVER, Mr. Marriott appears to understand that ones personal belief (especially one that effects many) should not necessarily be practiced at a community level, whereby participants of that community are "forced" to live by such beliefs. And that, perhaps, is more important (in the short run) than whether one believes same sex marriage is correct or should remain taboo for the coming years.

Posted By: Hank Mancini (11/12/2008)
Comment: I was unaware of any controversy regarding Marriott and the defeat of California's Proposition 8. I really appreciate Mr. Marriott's straightforward and clear statment. Because of the actions of Marriott to be inclusive of all I am proud to be both a Marriott shareholder and a big Marriott fan.

Posted By: Rob in San Francisco (11/12/2008)
Comment: As a relationship oriented Gay Man and a former Mormon, I feel that Bill Marriott does not owe anyone a explanation of his personal beliefs. What matters in this discussion is the fact that the Marriott Corporation did NOT contribute to the Yes on 8 campaign. He is not responsible for how the church spends the proceeds from his personal tithing and again, that is his personal belief. If all of us, gay or straight, would like our personal views to be respected then it is only fair that we respect the personal beliefs as others. Even if we don't agree with them. We need to focus on changing this unfair law, not the opinions or religious beliefs and convictions of others who have every right to believe whatever they may.

Posted By: Monroe Wright (11/12/2008)
Comment: What a healthy conversation. A new day is dawning in America, both in business and government. I'm appreciative of all the responses.

Posted By: Mark (11/12/2008)
Comment: Saying that supporting Marriott hotels is the same as supporting attacks against the gay community is like saying that eating at a middle-eastern restaurant (or filling up your car with gas,) is the same as supporting terrorism. The claim is just generalistic and rediculous. Any person or group that is looking for change needs to use their energy in a more productive manner. Boycotts and demonstrations can only prove that you are mad. If you really want to see a change that energy needs to be focused in areas that will yeild results. I am pretty sure that you are not going to change the Morman church or any other church's view on the matter. Direct your efforts toward desicion makers and voters. Another point which should be obvious: Proposition 8 was left up to the people of California to vote on. Whether or not Mormon church supported the matter or not does not change that it was still a majority decision. Demographics show that Mormonism is not even close to the majority religion in California. Is the Mormon church being used as a scapegoat? I have done a bit of research as to the Marriott company's views and policies in reguards to gay employees and guests and they seem to on the forfront of being accepting and accomodating.

Posted By: Robbie (11/12/2008)
Comment: Mr. Marriott, thank you for demonstrating to the world that you have principles and live by them. I greatly respect you as a businessman and person. I think a boycott against Marriott is ridiculous and very short sighted. I hope that if people are somewhat successful with their boycott that your morals and character will attract business from people of the same character. Gay or straight, I don't care, just let us be men/women of character. I will continue to stay at Marriott.

Posted By: Eddie (11/12/2008)
Comment: Feel free to boycott. Marriott is still providing the best services to the world. I will not do this kind of stipud boycott. Come on, how can people be so hateful?? I don't get it.

Posted By: Matthew (11/12/2008)
Comment: Mr. Marriott, Just one Question! Do you or Do you not support same sex marriage? Until you answer this direct question I will continue to support the Boycott on your business!

Posted By: Jason Ward (11/12/2008)
Comment: I stay exclusively at Marriotts because they offer the best service and ammenitites consistently around the world. The personal beliefs and religious sentiments of any Marriott employee or Bill Marriott himself is none of my business. I feel strongly that we should all be allowed to keep our personal lives personal and I regret that Bill Marriott felt the need to publicize a statement on this matter. Finally, I believe this proposition was a matter before the electorate - if anyone has a problem with it their problem is with the will of the people, not a church, a company or a single individual.

Posted By: Apt604 (11/12/2008)
Comment: I'm amazed that some people in these comments would react to bigotry against gays and lesbians by engaging in bigotry themselves. Yes, I want marriage equality too. But count me out from boycotting a company that had nothing to do with Prop 8, just because of the owner's religion. The Catholic Church has been pretty against us too - should I also boycott every business run by someone who just happens to be a Catholic? Mr. Marriott, thanks for the statement.

Posted By: cinthya (11/12/2008)
Comment: Mr. Marriott, thank you for your kind words, I do support gays right, But, I will love to see ppl using all these energy to do beeter things, like reserch for cancer, what about that....

Posted By: t slater (11/12/2008)
Comment: thx for the comments - i would love to see you true feelings on the subject but the fact that you did not contribute directly to this discriminatory campaign (other than through tithing) is certainly meaningful after seeing some of the strong arm tactics the church used.

Posted By: Dennis (11/12/2008)
Comment: some of your franchise's did give considerable funds to prop 8... no marriot will get my gay money ever

Response: This is Blake Little responding on behalf of Bill Marriott. Just like other management and franchise companies, the owners and franchisees of our hotels are independent businesses that make decisions for themselves.

Posted By: Rev. Rick Mitchell (11/12/2008)
Comment: Thank you for this reassuring statement of principle. We have been Marriott customers for many years and have invested in Marriott time-share properties (three weeks per year) and my wife and I have had dear, loving Mormon friends for more than 45 years. We were gratified when the church was led to revise its policy on race and look forward to the time when it (and other religious groups) will recognize that ALL people are created in the image if God and that all are welcome and affirmed by a God of love and acceptance. Thanks again for your position and stand on this unfortunate and divisive issue. There are millions of us who will continue to be grateful and supportive of you and your fine company.

Posted By: Victim of H8 (11/12/2008)
Comment: Rather disingenuous, Bill. LDS has been working to stop same-sex marriage for years, as the Hinckley document reported this week shows. If you tithe (and correct me if you don't), your money was used to attack my family. It doesn't get any more personal than that. The boycott is appropriate and will continue.

Posted By: Linda Lou (11/12/2008)
Comment: I suspect that, as a good Mormon, Mr. Marriott gives 10 percent of his gross income to the Mormon church, as is required. Every time we stay in a Marriott hotel, we make a donation to the Mormon church and indirectly support its tenets.

Posted By: Cedwyn (11/12/2008)
Comment: Nice words as far as they go, but it's not enough. You may not have contributed to Prop 8, but surely you tithe to and otherwise support your church? And your church was the largest sponsor of Prop 8. Furthermore, yours is a large pulpit, Mr. Marriott. Yet you, as others have observed, have made no definitive statement on Prop 8, other than to disavow direct involvement. Even that was more to avoid a PR disaster for your hotel chain. Please live the principles you endorse for your company and denounce your church's support of discrimination.

Posted By: Frank (11/12/2008)
Comment: The words would ring less hollow if the Marriott corporation had ever taken the "inclusive" side on a political issue of this sort. For example, did the Marriott Corp. support public accommodation laws 40 years ago, or immigration reform in the present time? Not to mention opposing Proposition 8. I remain more than a little skeptical, and do not plan to stay at Marriott hotels until the company does something more positive on a contemporary issue of diversity. Other companies (e.g., Procter and Gamble) have done so - why not Marriott?

Response: This is Blake Little responding on behalf of Bill Marriott. Mr. Marriott has previously blogged about immigration reform in posts such as this one http://www.blogs.marriott.com/search/default.asp?item=704047

Posted By: PaulD (11/12/2008)
Comment: This quote "Marriott was built on the basic principles of respect and inclusion" rings loud and clear. Thank you for reminding us all of the importance of HAVING principles and living by them.

Posted By: Donald Hallberg (11/12/2008)
Comment: Mr. Marriott...thank you for your wise and compelling words. We have a son who is a Marriott associate and I am a frequent guest at Marriott properties. I could wish that more corporations were as positive as you attempt to make Marriott a leader.

Posted By: Ben (11/12/2008)
Comment: Anyone who has been following this closely KNOWS how the LDS church was requesting money to support prop 8. Specifically, the church requested large contributions to be made to third party organizations and/or contribute money under different family members' names. Such actions would give the appearance of being uninvolved with the prop, keep shareholders happy, and minimize negative media attention. So while Marriot may specifically state that "Neither I, nor the company, contributed to the 'campaign' to pass Proposition 8"...please note that he DOES NOT the he DOES NOT SUPPORT PROP 8.

Posted By: Chris (11/12/2008)
Comment: Mr. Marriott, I believe you have missed the mark on this issue entirely. The reason people are upset with you and your company is NOT because of the way you run your business. It is the church you support and their influence in passing such a hateful proposition. I respect the fact that your company has scored well regarding human rights. I believe that is smart business practice, because you want as big of a customer base as possible. It makes sense to include everyone. However, what people are disagreeing with is what your church has done, and your lack of resistance to it. You are a successful businessman, and you hold a lot of influence within your church. Any action by you would have been significant. Instead, your inaction has proven to be even more significant. If you truly believe in these principles of equality that you run your business with, you should have spoken out against your church's actions. Maybe, you should have even donated to the No on Prop 8 campaign. While I respect everyone's religious beliefs, I do not believe that our law should reflect any bias towards one religion or the next. Surely, you can see that the passage of Prop 8 has violated our basic human rights as Americans. You have a right to believe what you believe, but your church has decided to try to force their beliefs upon everyone, regardless of their beliefs or religion. And by not doing anything about it, you have shown support for what they have done. I cannot support you, or your business, while your church spreads hate and you do nothing about it. Sincerely, Chris

Posted By: txa (11/12/2008)
Comment: Mr.Marriott, had you made a personal contribution I would not have hold it against you, but coming out to discuss this issue deserves praise. Still, staying away from gambling, staying smoke-free, avoiding hard liquor in the minibars and being selective with the hotel-TV channels would and does show moral courage even though not everyone do agree with the actions. These are things not to be hidden behind corporate anonymity. (And I am not a member of the LDS Church)

Posted By: Chase (11/12/2008)
Comment: Mr. Marriott - thank you for issuing this statement. I have been aware of Marriott International's stance on LGBT issues for some time. I also appreciate your saying that you did not personally contribute to the Prop 8 campaign, but in my view, that statement was unnecessary. For someone to hold Marriott International accountable for your personal political contributions is, in my opinion, as repugnant as a company telling its employees they may not contribute to certain causes. Thank you again for your statement.

Posted By: D.F. (11/12/2008)
Comment: You pay the Mormon church your 10% do you not? The only thing some folks seem to understand more than a "CIVIL" rights struggle is reduced income. Boycott on!

Posted By: Preston (11/12/2008)
Comment: Mr. Marriot: What is missing from your letter is a clear denunciation of Prop 8 and the Mormon Church's hateful part in seeing it passed. We gays have learned to see though the carefully parsed wording of pieces like this. This will reassure no one--except maybe those few who are desperate not to have to give up their Platinum Elite points to make a point. If anything, attempts to have it both ways, as you do in your letter, infuriate rather than placate.

Posted By: Deborah Arlington VA (11/12/2008)
Comment: Mr. Marriott - It was very gratifying to read your words. They offer calm and solice in a country that still harbors large pockets of bigotry towards people who are "different." The march towards equality before the law is a long one; the march towards genuine acceptance in our hearts longer.

Posted By: Steve (11/12/2008)
Comment: Although I do appreciate your efforts in this post, the fact remains that as an active and loyal Mormon, you must tithe. So, although you did not directly contribute to Prop 8, your donations enabled the church to powerfully affect the outcome of an electoral process. Also, many people who work for you contributed to the funding of Prop 8 lies and propaganda. Unfortunately, this issue is about money, power and the abuse of it. So, although I do appreciate your post, I will continue to boycott Marriott and encourage others to revoke the LDS tax-exempt status. It's nothing personal. Just that I want equal rights. I guess the Marriot is simply collateral damage in the war the Mormon Church is waging against me and my family.

Posted By: M (11/12/2008)
Comment: Mr. Marriott, the earlier comment from Aaron summarizes the issue at hand perfectly. I read the first paragraph and was pleasantly surprised by your bold stance. Then I read the second paragraph and said "uh oh". Then I read the rest and was completely disgusted. I heard a great quote recently about how many churches conduct their business regarding individual freedoms: "The church teaches people that they can honor God and improve their lives by changing themselves and helping other people. Instead, we see them helping themselves and changing other people." Get it?

Posted By: Mark (11/12/2008)
Comment: Thank you for your statement. I am a Platinum member, and this was important for me to hear. I will continue to stay exclusively at Marriott properties.

Posted By: dan (11/12/2008)
Comment: It doesn't matter if Bill Marriott didn't give to Prop 8. He is a major donor to the Mormon Church. And they use that money to impose their religious views on others

Posted By: paul (11/12/2008)
Comment: I don't understand Larry McVoy's comment (actually either of them). I can't tell precisely what Larry McVoy wanted Bill Marriott to do. Similarly, regarding Aaron's post, I am happy to hear that Bill Marriott didn't personally contribute to yes-on-8, and I don't think it would have been reasonable to expect him to go further, by coming out swinging against the proposition or against the LDS Church. That would have been "extra credit" but not "required".

Posted By: Marty Munson (11/12/2008)
Comment: Years ago John F Kennedy made a speech imploring the public to believe that while he was a practicing Catholic he would not allow the Pope to dictate to him on matters of government. I think that history has confirmed his assertion. I believe that today it is commonly known and accepted that many Catholics disagree with their church on some matters, yet we don't require them to list which items of dogma they agree with and which they disagree with. We should require no different of Mormons. Your hotels' record of inclusion and civil rights is exemplary and what your personal beliefs are should remain just that - your personal beliefs, so long as your business continues to operate as it does within the laws of the land. I have been treated with the utmost of respect each time I have been a guest at one of your hotels, and have seen the same treatment for all others, and as such will continue to make Marriott Hotels my first choice for all of my travels.

Posted By: George Fox (11/12/2008)
Comment: Bill with all due respect, you need to put their money where their mouth is. Give money to Equality Utah, and publicly come out in support of the proposals going before the Utah legislature to support civil union. After all, those proposals are tailored to meet precisely the limits that the Mormon Church said publicly it was willing to accept. If those businessmen are not willing to do that, at the very least, then all their protestations are hot air. It's not enough, but it would separate the wheat from the chaff.

Posted By: Mike W. (11/12/2008)
Comment: Mr. Marriott, Thanks for speaking up on this topic. Many people incorrectly assumed that Marriott International or members of the Marriott family supported Prop 8. It is good to know that you did not in fact support it and that you practice what you preach in the area of diversity. It took some courage for you to come out and denouce Prop 8 in this way, knowing that your church supports it - and we applaud you for your bravery and willingness to stand up for what is right. Your words and actions are appreciated and are what makes Marriott such a great company!

Posted By: Gary SF (11/12/2008)
Comment: So, is Bill Marriott supporting same-sex marriage or is he against same-sex marriage? Also, there is no mention of sexual orientation in the 'formal diversity program.' Don't expect GLBTs to be your customers if you cannot support us.

Response: This is Blake Little responding on behalf of Bill Marriott. We take our diversity commitment seriously, and know that our partnerships are focused on inclusion. For instance, Marriott International also is a member of the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, and over the years we have worked with and supported PFLAG, GLAAD, Out & Equal Workplace Advocates, the Human Rights Campaign and other LGBT national and community nonprofits.

Posted By: Paul Ginandes (11/12/2008)
Comment: Dear Sir, I'm glad to hear that you personally did not support stripping civil rights from gays and lesbians in CA. However, you do tithe to the Mormon Church, and since that organization contributed tens of millions of dollars to that discriminatory amendment, we can be sure that some of those dollars came from your tithes. Did you contact your church elders and ask them not to encourage the other members of your church to work against the equal marriage rights of gays and lesbians? Your membership in the church supports all of its works, and many of those have been unfair, dishonest and discriminatory. I will no longer support any Mormon owned businesses, for any reason.

Posted By: bev gebicke (11/12/2008)
Comment: what a fantastic commentary! I wish every American had your insight & compassion.

Posted By: Ira Blackman (11/12/2008)
Comment: Thank you for addressing this. Personally, I was wondering about the Marriott corporation and have heard so many discuss boycotting. This is good news. I am a Platinum Elite member and will continue to be. You have my unwavering customer support and I will tell others.

Posted By: tommy ward (11/12/2008)
Comment: Thankyou from the bottom of my heart

Posted By: Rob Wright (11/12/2008)
Comment: Mr. Marriott, Thank you for addressing this issue. I have a couple of questions: Given that you are a member of the LDS church, don't you provide a percentage of your income ("increase") to the LDS church as a tithing? Is that tithing being used to support anti-gay actions by the LDS church?

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Posted By: Larry McVoy (11/11/2008)
Comment: If my previous post does not show up on your blog I will post it to reddit, digg, slashdot, forbes, newsweek, nytimes, and anywhere else I can find. With a comment that you censored my thoughts. Welcome to the internet.

Posted By: Larry McVoy (11/11/2008)
Comment: I've spent a lot of time and money at your hotels. I can assure you that if this is your reaction to the LDS I will never spend a dime with you again nor will my employees. The LDS may well lose their tax exempt status over this mess. And their actions will be proven to be against the constitution that enabled your church to exist in this country. You should be ashamed and the morman church should be deeply ashamed. This is a country that is founded on the idea that everyone can be who they want to be. For shame, Mr Marriott, for shame.

Posted By: Marshall (11/11/2008)
Comment: Mr. Marriott, Thank you for recognizing the world is in essence "one human family." From Key West with Gratitude

Posted By: Jack Lechelt (11/11/2008)
Comment: I'm proud to know that my family is associated with the Marriott family through this fantastic company. Well said Mr. Marriott.

Posted By: Aaron (11/11/2008)
Comment: Mr. Marriott, I appreciate that you are motivated to respond to the accusation that you contributed to the campaign to pass Proposition 8. However, what you did write was different than saying that you personally oppose Prop. 8, which you did not write. Saying you did not contribute to the campaign for Proposition 8 is not the same as saying you do not support your church's stand on gay and lesbian civil rights. I find it sad that you have to issue such a carefully worded statement to avoid both censure from your church and censure from an outraged public. I used to be a Mormon, and have always wondered why anyone would continue to claim membership and association in an organization that has in the past advocated against civil rights for Blacks and continues today to advocate against civil rights for women and members of the GLBT community. I resigned my membership in the Mormon church because I wanted absolutely no connection to an organization that would promulgate misogyny or homophobia. Your message, while appearing sincere on the surface, is hypocritical. The Mormon church is a political organ pushing hatred and bigotry. If you really believed otherwise, you would have long ago spoken with your feet.

Posted By: Stephen (11/11/2008)
Comment: Thanks for posting your honest and forward comments. It was a pleasant surprise reading them, since they weren't required and sounded sincere. Thanks!

Posted By: ourlivesforhim (11/11/2008)
Comment: We all have sins and faults before a perfect and Holy God. None of us can "cast the first stone" at anyone else. Thank you for reminding us that we all matter to God and are his children.

Posted By: gavin levin (11/11/2008)
Comment: Mr Marriott, I have enjoyed your hotels for several years now. This is the first time I have e-mailed or blogged your hotel. I would like to commend a young man named Adam *******, who went above and beyond the call of duty in securing me a room. I believe Mr. ******* upholds the values set by your family to treat your customers with dignity and respect. Mr. Nemirow is the manager at the Chicago Medical District Marriott. If you have an opportunity, a brief note would be nice. Keep up the good work, your employess attitude are exceptional. Gavin Levin

Posted By: Jerry (11/11/2008)
Comment: Mr. Marriot, Can we take that as your personal and public disagreement with the Mormon Church's stance on Prop 8?

Posted By: Todd Hall (11/11/2008)
Comment: Mr. Marriott, You never cease to amaze me. You are truly a living example of the two greatest commandments. 1. To love the lord with all of your heart, all of your soul, and all of your mind. 2. And to love your neighbor as you love yourself. I think it would be mighty hard to aspire to these goals without being able to embrace diversity. Thank you for leading by example. Kind Regards, Todd Hall

Posted By: Alexa (11/11/2008)
Comment: Thank you for posting that. I was a bit concerned when I heard someone say that the Marriott chain was involved in the Prop 8 passage.

Posted By: Cathy (11/11/2008)
Comment: Wow! Thanks for that!! Great job with your blog-just a suggestion-maybe follow up with posts like the Pakastan bombing and such. It would be good to have updates.

Posted By: John Gallagher (11/11/2008)
Comment: Mr. Marriott; i enjoyed reading your comments, and I know them to be from your heart. My father, Pat Gallagher, worked for you for more than 30 years. First at the now gone Twin Bridges Marriott, and then at Key Bridge. He is gone now, but some of the best advice he ever gave me was respect and like the people you work with and for. I know he did. Hope all is well with you and yours. Sincerely, John Gallagher