Florida’s tourism marketing agency recently made headlines when it removed the “LGBTQ Travel” section from its website. According to the Associated Press, the change was implemented on the “Visit Florida” website sometime in the last few months. This decision has sparked controversy and raised questions about inclusivity and diversity in the state’s tourism industry.
NBC News was the first to report on the removal of the LGBTQ+ section from the website. Despite the deletion of the section, LGBTQ+ listings still appear on the site, leading to confusion among users. The link that previously directed visitors to the LGBTQ Travel page now redirects them to a general “things to do” landing page. The exact timing of the section’s removal remains unclear, but it was still accessible as of mid-April.
The “Visit Florida” website operates as a public-private partnership between the state of Florida and the state’s tourism industry. Florida contributes approximately $50 million annually from two tourism and economic development funds to support the website and its promotional efforts. The LGBTQ+ section of the site previously highlighted the state’s appeal to the LGBTQ+ community, emphasizing a sense of freedom, warmth, and acceptance on Florida’s beaches.
The removal of the LGBTQ Travel section comes amidst a backdrop of contentious legislation signed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Recent laws have restricted discussions of sexual orientation and gender identity in classrooms, banned minors from attending live drag shows, and prohibited minors from undergoing certain gender-affirming medical treatments. These actions have drawn criticism from civil rights groups, with some issuing travel advisories for Florida due to perceived hostility towards marginalized communities.
Despite these controversies, Florida remains a top tourist destination, particularly for the LGBTQ+ community. Key West, Fort Lauderdale, Wilton Manors, and St. Petersburg are noted as popular destinations for LGBTQ+ travelers. Visit Florida CEO Dana Young has emphasized the state’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity, highlighting the presence of Pride festivals and a welcoming environment for all visitors.
In response to the backlash, Governor DeSantis dismissed the removal of the LGBTQ Travel section as a “stunt,” citing record-breaking tourism numbers in the state. Visit Florida has reiterated its commitment to welcoming all visitors and promoting diversity within the tourism industry. The organization has emphasized Florida’s reputation as a safe and inclusive destination for travelers of all backgrounds.
As discussions around inclusivity and diversity continue, the removal of the LGBTQ Travel section from the “Visit Florida” website serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and complexities within the tourism industry. It underscores the importance of creating welcoming and inclusive spaces for all travelers, regardless of their background or identity.
