change take
What happens when a destination strives to embrace DEI but political leaders get in the way?
Andrea Doyle
This week’s Destinations International (DI) annual conference in Tampa, Florida, showcased how to address political challenges and promote inclusivity. Despite Florida’s controversial law, this was the association’s largest conference to date, with approximately 2,000 attendees, 750 of whom were international from 30 countries.
“For the most part, this political divide does not impact our local situation,” said Santiago Corrada, president and CEO of Visit Tampa Bay. “We have members from both parties in the city and county who work well across party lines, and I hope that happens in other places as well.”
DI worked with Tampa Mayor Jane Castor (one of 37 openly LGBTQ mayors in the United States) to plan an event where attendees were encouraged to attend and volunteer to support local organizations.
In addition, the event invites diverse local businesses to market their products and services. “This was a very successful event put on by Destinations International, and I am proud to serve on their committee to engage members in attendance and support Florida’s diverse community,” said IGLTA President and CEO John Tanzella. Chemical businesses, especially in Tampa.
Miami is another Florida destination eager to let planners know it embraces diversity and inclusion. David Whitaker, President and CEO of the Greater Miami CVB, attended the DI meeting to focus on the impact of Florida legislation on the Conference and General Assembly.
“If you care about an issue, why are you boycotting?” Whitaker asked. “You are hurting the people you care about. Instead, don’t waste the opportunity of a crisis—use it to educate.
Tanzela agreed. “Stop boycotts that harm different 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 the tourism industry, including the impact on conferences and conventions.
Eighty percent of those surveyed said they found Florida somewhat or very unpopular. Still, two-thirds of U.S. respondents and 59% of global respondents are open to visiting welcoming cities in states with controversial laws.
According to the IGLTA Foundation report, only 29% of travelers chose political action, with 27% recommending a boycott.
Today, Democrats and Republicans are more ideologically divided in the United States than at any time in the past 50 years, according to the Pew Research Center.
With that in mind, the organization will emphasize its diversity as the presidential election approaches, Nancy Mammana, chief marketing officer and interim CEO of Tourism + Conventions New York City, told Skift Meetings.
“We will emphasize that everyone is welcome. New York is a destination created by immigrants who make up its diverse fabric. We may increase our efforts during the election cycle,” Mamana said.
