As a founding member of the TTG LGBT+ advisory panel, I am delighted to be writing this column. At Celebrity Cruises, a business I have been honoured to lead in the UK and Ireland for the last eight years, we are committed to promoting a smarter, better, and fairer travel industry, aligning with TTG’s core values, and so it seems even more poignant that this will be my final column in this guise, as I set off for new adventures.

Although progress has been made over the last few years, led by fearless leaders who have inspired change, we cannot afford to go backwards. There is much more work to be done: a clear example which can be seen by recent attacks on the trans-community: which has only led to a rise in hate-crimes against them.

It is crucial that this marginalised group continues to be sheltered – and included – under the diverse rainbow that make up the LGBTQ+ family and that we do not fight against our own best interests. In an industry where diversity, equity and inclusivity (DEI) are vital, we also need to celebrate those who have been brave enough to see past convention and pursue their goals.

One such hero is Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, who recently stepped down as chief executive and president of Celebrity Cruises, but not before leaving an indelible mark on the industry. Throughout her tenure, Lisa has been instrumental in spearheading change. Her commitment to inclusivity has been evident in all of the work that she and her team have done, and her leadership has been a shining example of what it means to be an ally. Her work has helped to create safer and more inclusive environments for LGBTQ+ travellers, and her legacy will continue to impact the industry for years to come.

Although headway has been made over the last few years, there is still a necessary culture shift throughout the travel industry. At Celebrity Cruises, I too have tried to ensure that we continually champion representation and inclusivity. We are proud to have launched campaigns such as the All-Inclusive Photo Project, to show that representation in campaigns matter, prompting wider diversity in the travel industry through imagery as well as being the first brand within our group to offer LGBTQ+ marriages onboard.

Living authentically is also a critical part of this reflection. My personal background has shaped my commitment to DEI, and I am proud to work for a company that shares the same values.

I am also proud of our team members, who are part of this wonderful community, such as our crew members who have participated in our Pride parades around the world including the world-famous Miami Pride, which we have sponsored for many years. We celebrate their diversity and are proud to have them as part of our team.

I also reflect when thinking about the concept of the word “Pride” on the importance of role models and allies in achieving greater DEI in the travel industry. Within Royal Caribbean Group, we believe everyone should feel "free to be me" on our ships and we strive to instil this value across all our staff, crew, and guests, recognising that meaningful change can only be achieved with the support of your colleagues and peers.

This continues within our UK business with our Employee Resource Groups which aim to nurture DEI in the workplace and foster a sense of belonging and inspire open conversation. Our five groups are led by employees who share a characteristic and supported by allies with a common interest and desire to help, further ensuring that DEI is central to our community.  Let’s continue to work together towards a more inclusive travel industry, where everyone can feel seen, heard, and valued and work together to achieve this.

We also need to understand that equality is not the same as equity. While equality may involve providing everyone with the same resources, equity requires considering individual needs to ensure fair opportunities for all. It’s crucial for businesses to be open to different perspectives and to focus on accommodating their entire workforce, rather than just a few individuals. Achieving true equity requires considering the unique needs of each individual to move the industry forward.

That’s why it is so great to see other brands like Virgin Atlantic taking action and raising standards in the industry – and I applaud them for leading the way through their workforce training, campaigns and shared values.

So, as we continue to celebrate Pride month, let’s remember the importance of inclusivity and diversity in our plans ahead. Let’s celebrate those who have been brave enough to pursue their goals, and let’s continue to fight for equity – true equality – for all. 

It’s time for everyone to do their part, and for my last TTG column sign-off, as I sail into new waters of my own – leaving a role in which I truly have loved every minute – I encourage all TTG readers to take action, ask questions and embrace authenticity whenever possible.

Let’s make the travel industry a place where everyone feels they belong.

Jo Rzymowska is managing director EMEA at Celebrity Cruises