Equity, Belonging, Diversity + Inclusion

Travel and tourism can amplify peace, humanity, and cultural exchange. But meaningful change requires reflection and action.

At Tourism Cares, we view diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) as fundamental pillars of sustainability. True sustainability goes beyond environmental stewardship—it also requires fostering equitable opportunities, amplifying diverse voices, and creating an inclusive travel industry that benefits all. We believe that sustainable tourism must uplift historically marginalized communities, protect cultural heritage, and ensure fair representation and access across all sectors of travel. By integrating DEI into all of our programmatic efforts, we aim to support systemic change throughout the industry that not only protects the planet but also creates a more just, inclusive, and thriving world for everyone connected to travel.

We are dedicated to moving our industry forward by asking important (and sometimes uncomfortable) questions about justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. We believe travel is a tool for celebrating our differences and building shared experiences, but we know there’s more work to be done.

We recognize the need to do a better job of amplifying underrepresented voices and investing in equitable opportunities. We are committed to creating a welcoming world for those including, but not limited to Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, of all abilities and all gender identities.

Let’s ensure we use the power of travel to push for real and systemic change.

Taking Action.

We are committed to embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion into every aspect of our work. Through ongoing education, program assessments, and meaningful industry partnerships, we strive to ensure our efforts reflect and support equitable representation and opportunities. This includes evaluating our programs to foster inclusivity, engaging with diverse industry associations, and enhancing policies that uphold principles of anti-racism, accessibility, and fostering a sense of belonging. Additionally, we are equipping our team and board with the knowledge and tools needed to address issues of race, environmental justice, and economic equity. These efforts reflect our belief that DEI is not a standalone initiative but an integral part of creating a sustainable tourism industry.


Banner image courtesy of ProColombia.

SPOTLIGHT: THE PEOPLE + PLACES OF TOURISM CARES

Historic Virginia Key Beach Park | Tourism Cares with Miami 2014

The Historic Virginia Key Beach Park, a site on our Meaningful Map, and program host, is a historic landmark and once the only Colored Only Beach in Miami, established in 1945. Today, the park provides the community an estate for family events, community meetings, corporate meetings, as well as a pristine beachfront for swimming and water activities. In August 2002, the park was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.