In publishing stories on LGBTQ+ travel over the years, probably the most basic bit of advice that comes up again and again is for suppliers to be “welcoming” to the market. Whether you’re a destination management office or a travel agency, at the most primary level, your job is to make all travelers feel like you want their business. Simple, right?
Truthfully, at least in the past decade or so, that advice — while important — was not particularly meaningful, especially domestically. Generally speaking, one could look around the U.S. and feel that the differences between destinations were a matter of degree. Some destinations and companies were surely more welcoming than others, but in most cases, there was an effort to court LGBTQ+ travelers. So, it’s discouraging that in 2023, we see U.S. destinations turn their backs on this group by supporting — or not being more vocal in their opposition to — anti-gay legislation around the country.
Please don’t go to travel shows and talk about how friendly and welcoming your state is, as if we’re not all seeing the same headlines.
Needless to say (except, apparently, it does need to be said), these attitudes are not “welcoming.” If you’re working in a tourism office in Florida, Texas, Tennessee and many other states, you can’t tell LGBTQ+ travelers to come spend their money there, while at the same time limiting the freedoms and benefits of your own LGBTQ+ citizens. Those two actions are mutually exclusive. Please don’t go to travel shows and talk about how friendly and welcoming your state is, as if we’re not all seeing the same headlines.
As you read our new cover story, please think about what you’re doing, personally and professionally, to stand up to the anti-gay bullies around the country. I believe travel provides opportunities to bring people together and promotes a greater understanding between us all. And I know many of you think that, too. I hope the travel industry calls out these opportunistic, cynical politicians and lets them know that being welcoming is more than just ad copy.
