Thursday, August 22, 2024 The recent quiet removal of the “LGBTQ Travel” section from Florida’s official tourism website has sparked widespread concern among LGBTQ+ travelers and tourism industry stakeholders. Florida , known for its popular destinations like Key West, Fort Lauderdale, Wilton Manors, and St. Petersburg, has long been a top choice for LGBTQ+ tourists.
However, this latest development raises significant questions about the state’s commitment to inclusivity and the broader implications for its tourism industry. A Shift in Florida’s Tourism Messaging Florida’s tourism marketing agency, Visit Florida, removed the LGBTQ+ section from its website without prior notice, a move that has left many in the LGBTQ+ community and the travel industry alarmed. The section, which previously celebrated Florida as a welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ travelers, had highlighted the state’s appeal due to its sense of freedom, warm weather, and inclusive activities.
The removal of this content is seen by many as part of a broader trend in Florida, where state policies under Governor Ron DeSantis have increasingly targeted the LGBTQ+ community. Keith Blackburn, head of the Greater Fort Lauderdale LGBT Chamber of Commerce, expressed deep frustration over the decision, interpreting it as an attempt by state officials to erase the LGBTQ+ community from public visibility. Blackburn’s sentiments reflect the growing anxiety among LGBTQ+ business owners and travelers who feel .