The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) hosted a Strategic Forum as part of its Global Partner Summit in Miami, May 2024. The discussion convened thought leaders from global brands supporting LGBTQ+ welcoming tourism, and addressed several questions, including:

• How can the global tourism industry work together to better combat anti-DEI (and anti-LGBTQ+) rhetoric to improve safety, promote inclusivity, and support LGBTQ+-welcoming businesses and destinations?
• How can the tourism industry better serve the needs of LGBTQ+ travelers?
• What does the future of LGBTQ+ tourism look like in terms of behavior, trends, and challenges?

The exchange led to insights at the forefront of the travel and tourism industry in 2024, particularly around LGBTQ+ travel, and for companies navigating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

5 Key Takeaways

1. Be Committed and Be Bold: A company committed to DEI should factor it into every layer of its business and be bold in that commitment.
2. Make DEI policies mandatory: devote time and resources for team conversations around them to build trust.
3. Training is a key element in DEI success at every level, both internally and public-facing.
4. Human capital is a company’s greatest asset, and it is vital to invite and embrace diversity.
5. To express DEI or LGBTQ+ commitment only to withdraw it later under pressure is likely more harmful to a brand.

We’re reminded that the commitment to DEI may have waned as a top priority for some companies in recent years. But there is still tremendous value in having both a diverse workforce and clientele/customer base; equitable treatment for LGBTQ+ and all communities; and inclusive policies that hold all stakeholders in esteem**.**

Companies of all sizes should take a stand on DEI, and be consistent, and courageous about it.

1. Executive Summary
2. Introduction
3. Making the Entire Travel Industry More Receptive Towards the LGBTQ+ Community
4. Establishing and Upholding Values and Messaging
5. Training as a Vital Element
6. Amplifying Diverse Voices
7. DEI is a Journey, Not a Destination