Colorado and Illinois amongst those to criticize

FloridaPhoto byShutterstock

Florida’s tourism website, VisitFlorida.com, has recently come under fire for quietly removing its “LGBTQ Travel” section, a move that has sparked a wave of criticism and opportunistic responses from other states. The section, which previously highlighted LGBTQ-friendly destinations and events, was a significant resource for travelers seeking inclusive experiences in the Sunshine State.

However, its sudden disappearance has not only upset local LGBTQ+ advocates but also caught the attention of states like Colorado and Illinois, who seem all too eager to capitalize on Florida’s misstep.

LGBTQ Travel 'erased'

The removal of the LGBTQ Travel section was first noticed by Rachel Covello, who runs OutCoast, a travel blog promoting Florida as an LGBTQ-inclusive destination. Covello expressed her disappointment, stating:

"It really feels like we were just erased in a way."

The page, which had been a fixture on the site since at least 2021, featured blog posts and videos about gay-friendly beaches, Pride events, and LGBTQ road trip ideas. Its removal has left many wondering about the motivations behind this decision.

Florida’s tourism marketing agency, Visit Florida, has remained tight-lipped about the reasons for the change. The agency, a public-private partnership, has not responded to requests for comment, leaving the public to speculate.

Other states pile on

The timing of this change has not gone unnoticed by other states. Representatives from Colorado and Illinois have been quick to voice their disapproval, with some even suggesting that travelers should consider their states as more welcoming alternatives. This opportunistic response has raised eyebrows, as it seems to be a calculated move to attract tourism dollars away from Florida.

Colorado’s tourism board released a statement highlighting their commitment to inclusivity and diversity, subtly hinting that travelers might find a more welcoming environment in the Rocky Mountains. Similarly, Illinois has ramped up its marketing efforts, emphasizing Chicago’s vibrant LGBTQ+ scene and the state’s inclusive policies. While these responses may appear altruistic on the surface, it’s hard to ignore the underlying opportunism.

Critics argue that these states are exploiting a minor change to a tourism website for their gain. The removal of a single webpage, while symbolically significant, does not erase the fact that many Florida cities remain popular and inclusive destinations for LGBTQ+ travelers. Key West, Fort Lauderdale, and St. Petersburg, among others, continue to be top choices for LGBTQ+ tourists, boasting gay-friendly beaches, bars, and events.

Previous website contentPhoto byTwitter of LexBraddock

Risking a vital source of income?

The economic impact of LGBTQ+ tourism in Florida is substantial. Nearly 141 million tourists visited Florida in 2023, contributing over $102 billion to the state’s economy. The LGBTQ+ community represents a significant portion of this revenue, and the removal of the LGBTQ Travel section could potentially harm local businesses that rely on this demographic.

In the end, the removal of the LGBTQ Travel section from VisitFlorida.com has sparked a debate that goes beyond tourism. It highlights the ongoing cultural and political battles over LGBTQ+ rights and representation. While other states may see this as an opportunity to attract more visitors, it’s essential to remember that the fight for inclusivity and acceptance is far from over.

Will people go elsewhere?

As the dust settles, one thing remains clear: the LGBTQ+ community will continue to seek out destinations where they feel welcomed and valued. Whether that means staying loyal to Florida’s inclusive cities or exploring new horizons in states like Colorado and Illinois, the choice ultimately lies with the travelers themselves.

Pride flagPhoto byTristan B.onUnsplash

And perhaps, in the grand scheme of things, this controversy will serve as a reminder of the importance of visibility and representation in all aspects of society, including tourism.

Do you think it's right that the section of the Visit Florida website should have been kept, or is it wrong to single out one community? Will it have any effect on people visiting Florida? Let me know your thoughts in the comments section below.