Events Embrace Inclusion Amid Political Division

The Destinations International (DI) Annual Convention, held in Tampa, Florida, this week, demonstrated how to navigate political challenges and foster inclusion. Although Florida has controversial laws, it was the association’s largest convention to date, with approximately 2,000 participants, of whom 750 were international from 30 countries and territories. 

“For the most part, that political divide doesn’t affect us at the local level,” said Santiago Corrada, president and CEO of Visit Tampa Bay. “We have members from both parties in the city and the county who work well across the aisle which I wish would happen in other places as well.”

DI curated a campaign with Jane Castor, the mayor of Tampa, one of 37 openly LGBTQ mayors in the U.S., to encourage attendees to show up and volunteer to support local organizations.

Additionally, the event featured local diversity-owned businesses selling their products and services. “It was a very successful campaign by Destinations International, and I am proud to have served on their committee to get members to show up and support diverse businesses in Florida, specifically here in Tampa,” said John Tanzella, president and CEO of IGLTA, the philanthropic arm of the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association. 

Miami is another Florida destination keen to ensure planners know that it embraces diversity and inclusion. David Whitaker, president and CEO of the Greater Miami CVB, participated in a DI session that focused on the impact of Florida’s legislation on meetings and conventions.

“If you care about an issue, why would you boycott?” asks Whitaker. “You are hurting the people you care about. Instead, don’t waste the opportunity of the crisis — use it to educate.”

Tanzella agreed. “Stand against boycotts that hurt diverse communities. Instead, volunteer and support nonprofits,” he said.

Data Reveals Inclusion Challenges and Opportunities

The IGLTA Foundation recently conducted a survey examining the impact of Florida’s controversial legislation on tourism, including the impact on meetings and conventions.   

Eighty percent of respondents said they perceive Florida as somewhat or very unwelcoming. Still, two-thirds of U.S. respondents and 59% of global respondents are open to visiting welcoming cities within states with controversial laws.

According to the IGLTA Foundation report, only 29% of travelers opt for political action, and 27% suggest a boycott. 

Today, in the U.S., Democrats and Republicans are farther apart ideologically than at any time in the past 50 years, according to the Pew Research Center. 

Nancy Mammana, chief marketing officer and interim CEO of New York City Tourism + Conventions, told Skift Meetings that, with this in mind, the organization will stress its diversity as the presidential election inches closer. 

“We will reinforce that everyone is welcome. New York is a destination founded by immigrants who make up its diverse fabric. We may ramp that up during the election cycle,” said Mammana. 

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