The removal of LGBTQ travel details from Florida’s official tourism site leaves business owners and travelers in shock
Florida has long been a beacon for tourists from all walks of life, including those from the LGBTQ+ community. Cities like Key West, Fort Lauderdale, Wilton Manors, and St. Petersburg have thrived as top destinations, drawing visitors with their vibrant, inclusive atmospheres. But recent developments have left many in the tourism and business sectors concerned.
In a quiet yet significant move, Florida’s tourism marketing agency, Visit Florida, has removed the “LGBTQ Travel” section from its website. This change, happening without much public notice, has raised alarms among business owners and travelers alike, particularly in Miami. With Miami being a key player in Florida’s tourism industry, known for its diverse and inclusive environment, this decision could have far-reaching impacts on the city’s reputation and economy.
Florida’s discreet website update raises eyebrows
The removal of the LGBTQ travel information from Visit Florida’s website is the latest in a series of actions that seem to sideline the community in the state. While the exact timing of the change remains unclear, the implications are already being felt. Previously, the LGBTQ Travel section of the website highlighted the freedom, warmth, and sense of belonging that Florida’s beaches and cities offer, particularly to LGBTQ+ visitors. For many, this section wasn’t just a travel guide; it was an affirmation that Florida was a welcoming destination for all.
However, with this content now gone, businesses that rely on LGBTQ+ tourism are feeling the strain. Keith Blackburn, head of the Greater Fort Lauderdale LGBT Chamber of Commerce, expressed his frustration, noting that this move makes it increasingly difficult to promote tourism in South Florida. Despite the removal of this content, a search query on the site can still pull up some listings for LGBTQ-friendly places, but the dedicated section’s absence is a glaring omission that hasn’t gone unnoticed.
Miami tourist attractions that have historically drawn LGBTQ+ visitors could see a dip in interest if the state continues on this trajectory. Events like Miami Music Week, Ultra Music Festival Miami, and other major gatherings that welcome diverse crowds could also be affected as the state’s stance on LGBTQ+ issues becomes more prominent.
The potential impact on Miami’s vibrant tourism industry
The removal of LGBTQ travel information from the state’s tourism website is more than just a website update; it’s a reflection of broader policy changes under Florida’s current administration. Governor Ron DeSantis has championed several laws that many view as hostile to the LGBTQ+ community. These include restrictions on classroom discussions about sexual orientation and gender identity, bans on gender-affirming care for minors, and laws aimed at limiting LGBTQ+ visibility in public spaces.
For Miami, where tourism is a major economic driver, these actions pose a significant threat. The city is known for its inclusive vibe, with neighborhoods and businesses that celebrate diversity. From the best places to eat in Miami to the bustling concerts in Miami, the city thrives on attracting a broad spectrum of visitors. However, as stories of Florida’s increasingly restrictive policies spread, there’s growing concern that tourists may start looking elsewhere.
This is particularly worrying for Miami’s LGBTQ+ owned businesses and those that cater to LGBTQ+ tourists. The fear is that potential visitors might choose to boycott Florida entirely, missing out on the vibrant cultural festivals, top restaurants in Miami, and unique attractions.
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