What: Destinations International Has Introduced the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Assessment Tool
Destinations International has launched a new tool that will help destination organizations and convention and visitors bureaus monitor and improve their diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts. The Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Assessment Tool will be available to members of the organization, who can use the tool to create intentional DEI goals and track progress through data-driven metrics for both the workplace and the wider community. They’ll also be able to assess workplace dynamics, operations and policies; vendor selection; community engagement; and accessibility-related strategies.
Why It Matters: Destinations Will Be Able to Track Their Progress Toward DEI Goals
The travel industry is increasingly recognizing the importance of DEI initiatives, but it can be challenging for organizations to determine where they stand and how they need to improve. By introducing this assessment tool, Destinations International is offering members a way to get the ball rolling, as well as to make measurable progress toward their goals. Destination organizations that take advantage of the tool will not only be creating a more equitable workplace and inclusive community, but will also become more appealing to the increasing number of travelers who prioritize these values.
Fast Facts: Features of the DEI Assessment Tool
- The Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Assessment Tool was first introduced during Destinations International’s 2022 Annual Convention in Toronto.
- Reporting features of the tool offer leading practices; median and best practice averages; and filters to anonymously compare a destination with its peers by budget size, geography, tourism assets and more.
What They Are Saying: This Tool Will Set Standard DEI Metrics Across the Travel Industry
“Many destination organizations recognize the value of incorporating DEI principles into their brand, but it is often hard to know where to start,” said Don Welsh, president and CEO of Destinations International. “This tool will set standard metrics across the industry for our members to keep track of progress being made in the areas of DEI.”
“We have recognized the need for authentic DEI initiatives in our industry and have discussed the need for accountability through measurement and metrics,” said Sophia Hyder Hock, chief diversity officer at Destinations International. “This assessment will provide our destination members with the ability to have a baseline understanding about DEI initiatives as it relates to their workplace, policies and operations, vendors, community and accessibility plans. We are grateful for the partnership with the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals (NCBMP), which sparked the idea to create this groundbreaking tool for our industry.”
