Florida removes LGBTQ+ travel information from its official tourism website: What you need to know?

This decision has sparked widespread concern among business owners and community leaders who view it as another step by state officials to marginalize the LGBTQ+ community.

A Surprising Move in a Popular LGBTQ+ Destination

The website previously highlighted Florida's appeal to LGBTQ+ travelers, noting the state's welcoming beaches, warm weather, and diverse activities that have long made it a top destination for LGBTQ+ tourists.

Keith Blackburn, president of the Greater Fort Lauderdale LGBT Chamber of Commerce, expressed his disappointment and frustration, stating, "It's just disgusting to see this.

They seem to want to erase us.

Legislative Actions Fuel Concerns

Republican Governor Ron DeSantis has been at the forefront of several policies that have caused alarm within the LGBTQ+ community and among civil rights advocates.

These include a bill that prohibits classroom instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity, a ban on gender-affirming care for minors, and a law aimed at preventing children from attending drag shows.

Critics argue that these measures, along with the recent website change, contribute to a climate of exclusion and hostility.

The change to Visit Florida's website was first reported by NBC News, which noted that while the dedicated LGBTQ+ section has been removed, some listings for LGBTQ+-friendly destinations can still be found through search queries.

However, the absence of a centralized resource specifically for LGBTQ+ travelers has left many feeling alienated.

Efforts to obtain an official response from Visit Florida regarding the removal have been met with silence. John Lai, who chairs the board of Visit Florida, did not respond to inquiries, and Dana Young, the agency's CEO and president, along with its public relations director, also did not provide any comments.

Visit Florida operates as a public-private partnership between the state and the tourism industry, with the state contributing approximately $50 million annually from tourism and economic development funds.

For business owners like Blackburn, the removal of the LGBTQ+ travel section is more than just a symbolic loss; it has practical implications for promoting South Florida as an inclusive and welcoming destination.

The advisory has had a tangible impact on perceptions of Florida as a travel destination, particularly among those who prioritize inclusivity.

Balancing State Policies with Local Inclusivity

Despite the state's actions, Blackburn emphasized that many Florida cities remain deeply inclusive, with gay elected officials and thriving LGBTQ+-owned businesses.

He stressed that these communities do not reflect the policies emanating from Tallahassee and continue to be welcoming to all visitors.

He urged potential visitors to consider the local communities' inclusivity and not to judge the entire state based on the actions of its government.

A significant moment in the ongoing tension?

The quiet removal of the LGBTQ+ travel section from Florida's official tourism website marks a significant moment in the ongoing tension between state policies and the inclusivity that many of its cities strive to uphold.

As Florida continues to navigate this complex landscape, the impact on its tourism industry and reputation as a welcoming destination remains to be seen.