Controversial Laws in Florida Prompt Organizations to Cancel Conferences
A series of new laws signed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has sparked a wave of controversy and backlash. These laws have led to protests, lawsuits, and travel advisories warning that the state is openly hostile towards people of color, immigrants, women, and LGBTQ+ community members. The fallout from these laws is now impacting Florida’s convention business, a key economic artery for the state, which heavily relies on tourism taxes.
Several organizations have recently announced plans to either cancel or relocate their upcoming conferences scheduled to take place in Florida. These organizations are making a statement by diverting their attendees and revenue to other states that are seen as safer and more welcoming. The impact of these cancellations is not limited to the short term; it is expected to have long-term effects on the convention business in Florida.
Stacy Ritter, president and CEO of the Visit Lauderdale tourism marketing agency, explains that conference business is planned years in advance. The impact of these cancellations may not be seen for years to come. Visit Lauderdale has already recorded 10 canceled events and conventions, resulting in 15,000 lost hotel room nights and an estimated $20 million economic impact.
The loss of business is a concern for Broward County, which has invested $1.5 billion in building an 801-room hotel connected to its convention center. The county expected to see bookings for the next few years with the addition of this new facility, but the cancellations have raised doubts about the future success of the convention business.
Other convention centers in Florida have also experienced cancellations. The Orange County Convention Center in Orlando has seen four events canceled, including the American Education Research Association’s annual meeting and the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses Global Surgical Conference & Expo. These cancellations are attributed to laws that restrict transgender participation in sports and other legislation that organizations find objectionable.
While some convention centers have not yet seen events being canceled, there is concern among organizations about hosting conferences in Florida due to the political climate and controversial laws. The Tampa Convention Center has received feedback from organizations expressing their displeasure with the legislation. However, the center continues to promote Tampa as an inclusive destination.
Governor Ron DeSantis’s office dismisses the cancellations as a “media-driven stunt” and highlights Florida’s record-breaking tourism numbers. According to his press secretary, Florida’s economy is booming, and the state is experiencing a significant influx of residents. However, organizations are still making the decision to relocate their conferences based on their concerns about the political climate in the state.
The Math Association of America and AnitaB.org are among the organizations that have taken a stand against the legislation in Florida. They have expressed their reluctance to host events in the state until the laws are overturned and the state becomes more inclusive. These decisions have not been easy, as organizations are potentially leaving behind significant financial opportunities.
The National Society of Black Engineers moved its 2024 event from Florida after consulting with various organizations and considering the impact of the legislation. The organization’s CEO expressed disappointment that the climate in Florida undermines their mission of increasing the number of Black engineers.
The Association of Collegiate Schools of Planning has also decided to move its fall 2023 conference from Florida to another host city. The organization made this decision based on its principles and the concerns raised by the legislation in the state.
The impact of these cancellations and relocations on Florida’s convention business remains to be seen. However, it is clear that the controversial laws have already had a significant effect, and organizations are taking a stand against the perceived hostility in the state.
Original Story at www.cnn.com – 2023-08-06 17:54:00