FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – LGBTQ+ tourism is a billion-dollar money maker in Fort Lauderdale and now those dollars are apparently up for grabs.
Connecticut is now positioning itself as an LGBTQ+ tourism hub in the wake of Florida’s controversial move to take down its LGBTQ+ visitors page from its official tourism website.
Anthony Anthony, Chief Marketing Officer for the State of Connecticut, sees this as a chance to offer an inclusive alternative.
“I realized that was a unique opportunity for Connecticut to stand tall and stand proud,” said Anthony.
As a response, Connecticut has amplified its efforts to market itself to LGBTQ+ travelers, enhancing its website and promoting the state as a welcoming destination for vacationers and career-seekers alike.
“We want to make sure that they know this is a home for them,” Anthony added. They can take a vacation here (and) they can make their careers here.”
Since Florida’s tourism agency, Visit Florida, removed its page directed at the LGBTQ+ community, organizations like Visit Lauderdale in Fort Lauderdale have ramped up their efforts, sponsoring out-of-state events such as the Provincetown Carnival in Massachusetts.
“For Connecticut, this benefits us tremendously,” said Anthony.
In an era where state tourism dollars are increasingly competitive, Anthony believes that Connecticut’s message of inclusivity could translate to economic growth.
“It just speaks to the inclusivity of the state,” he said, adding, “This is a free market economy.”
“Greater Fort Lauderdale has always been, and will always be, a place where everyone is welcome,” said Stacy Ritter, President and CEO of Visit Lauderdale, in a statement Wednesday. “We stand by our commitment to provide a welcoming experience for all travelers, including our LGBTQ+ community. Our doors are open, and we invite everyone to explore our beautiful destination and be part of our diverse and inclusive culture.”