IGLTA highlights negative impact of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation on tourism

The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) has warned of the negative impact on tourism of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation in destinations.

Its warning follows a survey by its philanthropic arm, the IGLTA Foundation, which studied the impact of policies introduced in Florida on LGBTQ+ tourism.

The study followed the introduction of legislation which restricted discussions around sexual orientation and gender identity in schools and was dubbed the ‘Don’t Say Gay’ law.

The association said the legislation had impacted perceptions of the state as welcoming, despite there being “very LGBTQ+ welcoming destinations with large numbers of LGBTQ+ people living in the state as well as LGBTQ+ owned businesses that depend on LGBTQ+ tourism”.

It said the findings would be applicable to any destination “with governmental policies that could negatively impact LGBTQ+ travel”.

“The state’s recent anti-LGBTQ+ legislation serves as a stark reminder of the work needed for global LGBTQ+ inclusivity, demonstrating how such policies deter LGBTQ+ travellers,” it added.

The report surveyed 2,300 respondents in the US, plus 875 in other countries, including the UK, Canada, Mexico, Brazil and Germany.

It found that 80% of US LGBTQ+ respondents perceive Florida as somewhat or very unwelcoming.

However, it found that two-thirds of US LGBTQ+ respondents and 59% of global respondents “would consider visiting LGBTQ+ welcoming cities within states with anti-LGBTQ+ laws, highlighting community resilience and a commitment to destinations advocating for inclusivity”.

John Tanzella (pictured), IGLTA chief executive, said: “While this report arose from the negative legislative actions in Florida, the takeaways are applicable globally, to any destination facing governmental challenges that impact its ability to attract LGBTQ+ travellers.”

A spokesperson for Visit Florida said the tourism marketing organisation does not make comments on political issues or proposed legislation.

But they added: “As the vacation state, Florida is a great destination for all travellers.

“We pride ourselves on welcoming every visitor with the same warmth and friendliness, no matter where you are from, what you believe, whom you love or what your abilities are.

“At VisitFlorida.com, we have assembled a wealth of resources to meet the needs of our diverse range of visitors, including a travel hub dedicated specifically to LGBTQ+ events and destinations throughout the state.

“Whether travelling with family, friends, colleagues or on a solo getaway, Florida’s got it all, and we are proud to be a destination for everyone.”