Elimination of LGBTQ+ travel info from state website could impact ability to attract conventions, conferences and trade shows
Visit Florida, has quietly removed its “LGBTQ Travel” section from its website. This decision comes amidst a wave of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation championed by Governor Ron DeSantis, raising concerns about the state’s commitment to inclusivity and its impact on the lucrative LGBTQ+ tourism sector. This decision, coupled with the state’s recent wave of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, has raised alarm bells about Florida’s commitment to inclusivity and its potential impact on attracting conferences, conventions, and trade shows.
A Quiet Removal Amidst Political Turmoil
The removal of the LGBTQ+ travel resources, which occurred sometime in the past few months, came to light this week, sparking outrage and disappointment among LGBTQ+ business owners and advocates. Key West, Fort Lauderdale, and St. Petersburg, long-standing bastions of LGBTQ+ tourism, now find themselves navigating a state marketing strategy that seems to be turning its back on a significant portion of its visitor base.
Keith Blackburn, head of the Greater Fort Lauderdale LGBT Chamber of Commerce, expressed his dismay, stating, “It’s just disgusting to see this. They seem to want to erase us.” John Lai, chair of Visit Florida’s board, and Dana Young, its CEO and president, have offered little in the way of explanation, further fueling concerns about the state’s stance on LGBTQ+ tourism.
While Visit Florida CEO Dana Young maintains that the agency remains committed to welcoming all travelers, critics argue that actions speak louder than words. The removal of dedicated LGBTQ+ resources sends a clear message of exclusion, potentially alienating a crucial segment of the meetings and events market.
Florida’s tourism industry, a major economic powerhouse, generated over $102 billion from out-of-state visitors in 2023. LGBTQ+ travelers represent a significant portion of this market, and their spending power cannot be ignored. The decision to remove LGBTQ+ travel resources could have a chilling effect on the state’s ability to attract conferences, conventions, and trade shows, particularly those catering to or with significant LGBTQ+ participation.
Organizations and individuals who prioritize diversity and inclusion may now think twice before choosing Florida as a host destination. The state’s perceived hostility towards the LGBTQ+ community could lead to lost revenue, a tarnished reputation, and difficulty attracting top talent and speakers.
The Road Ahead
The meetings and events industry thrives on inclusivity and diversity. Florida’s decision to erase LGBTQ+ travel resources from its official tourism website sends a troubling message, potentially jeopardizing its standing as a welcoming destination for all. As the state grapples with the implications of its actions, industry leaders will need to carefully navigate this complex landscape and advocate for policies that promote inclusivity and support the vibrant LGBTQ+ community that has long been an integral part of Florida’s tourism tapestry.
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