Tourism sector urged to have 'open dialogue' on race

Their stories were shown in a video entitled 5 Questions About Race, which premiered this week at Destinations International’s 2020 annual conference.

Running at eight minutes and 38 seconds, the film takes less time to watch than the eight minutes and 46 seconds a police officer knelt on the neck of George Floyd, leading to his death in Minneapolis on 25 May.

“As a Black professional who has worked hard to be in a position of leadership in my industry, I have experienced and seen my share of racial inequality,” said Cleo Battle, chief operating officer, Louisville Tourism.

“The time is now to make changes in our industry for the future and I proudly join my colleagues in helping to lead the conversation forward.”

“There are a few reactions as this public conversation continues: some people are concerned; some don’t know what to say; some are scared; and some, unfortunately, will remain ignorant,” said Elliott L. Ferguson, II, president and chief executive of Destination DC.

“But these are discussions we need to have and then follow them with action if we are to effect real change in our country, so I encourage everyone to have open and honest dialogue.”

In a shared statement, Al Hutchinson, president and chief executive, Visit Baltimore and Charles H. Jeffers, II, chief operating officer, Visit Baltimore, said: “Visit Baltimore wants to do its part in eradicating racism in our city, industry and America. As Black destination leaders for a majority African American city, we make a special call to our white colleagues to help us confront racism. We can’t do this alone; we’ll only achieve positive, lasting change by working together.”

Chief sales officer of Travel Portland James Jessie added: “The first step in making meaningful and lasting change is the acknowledgement that these inequities exist and are prevalent in our industry and society.

“Yet, this only where the journey begins. It must be followed with a dialogue resulting in changes we will all make today and hold ourselves accountable to tomorrow to ensure a brighter future for Black men and women in America.”