Florida Quietly Removes LGBTQ+ Travel Info from State Website, Sparking Significant Speculation

Florida’s tourism website quietly removes LGBTQ+ travel information, raising concerns about inclusivity and economic impact.

At a Glance

Florida’s tourism marketing agency removed the “LGBTQ Travel” section from its website
Business owners catering to LGBTQ+ tourists see this as an attempt to erase their community
The change occurs amid contentious legislative battles over LGBTQ+ rights in Florida
Tourism is a major industry in Florida, contributing over $102 billion to the economy in 2023

Florida’s Controversial Move

In a recent development that has sparked concern among LGBTQ+ advocates and business owners, Florida’s tourism marketing agency has quietly removed the “LGBTQ Travel” section from its official website. This change, first reported by NBC News, has left many questioning the state’s commitment to inclusivity and its potential impact on Florida’s thriving tourism industry.

The removal of this information is particularly significant given Florida’s reputation as home to several popular LGBTQ+ tourist destinations, including Key West, Fort Lauderdale, Wilton Manors, and St. Petersburg. These areas have long been known for their welcoming atmosphere and vibrant LGBTQ+ communities.

Impact on Local Businesses and Tourism

The decision to remove LGBTQ+ travel information has not gone unnoticed by local business owners who cater to this demographic. Many view this action as part of a broader trend of marginalization under the current state administration.

“It’s just disgusting to see this,” said Keith Blackburn, who heads the Greater Fort Lauderdale LGBT Chamber of Commerce. “They seem to want to erase us.”

Tourism is a crucial industry for Florida’s economy, with nearly 141 million tourists contributing over $102 billion in 2023 alone. The removal of LGBTQ+-specific travel information could potentially impact this lucrative sector, especially in areas known for their LGBTQ+-friendly attractions and events.

Political Context and Broader Implications

This website change occurs against a backdrop of increasing tensions surrounding LGBTQ+ rights in Florida. Under Republican Governor Ron DeSantis, the state has implemented various policies that have been criticized as anti-LGBTQ+, including banning classroom instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity, and restricting gender-affirming care for minors.

Several Florida cities have long been top U.S. destinations for LGBTQ+ tourists. So it came as a surprise this week when travelers learned that Florida's tourism marketing agency quietly removed the “LGBTQ Travel” section from its website recently. https://t.co/5tPtIhtBpV

— News 3 Now / Channel 3000 (@WISCTV_News3) August 21, 2024

The removal of LGBTQ+ travel information from the state’s official tourism website is seen by many as another step in this direction, potentially deterring LGBTQ+ travelers from choosing Florida as their vacation destination. This could have far-reaching consequences for the state’s economy and its reputation as a diverse and welcoming place.

Looking Ahead

As Florida grapples with the fallout from this decision, many are calling for accountability and a return to more inclusive marketing strategies. The state’s tourism industry faces the challenge of balancing political pressures with the economic realities of a diverse visitor base.

While some cities in Florida remain committed to inclusivity, with gay elected officials and thriving LGBTQ+-owned businesses, the state-level actions have created a complex landscape for both tourists and local business owners to navigate. As this situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Florida will address the concerns of its LGBTQ+ community and maintain its status as a top tourist destination for all visitors.