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Marriott International expands commitment to LGBT+ tourism

Besi Besemar March 31, 2018

Global Brand joins International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association as Top-Level Partner.

The International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association has announced that Marriott International has been named a Platinum Level global partner, which places them in the top-tier of global brand leaders that have committed to year-round support for the association and LGBT+ welcoming travel.

IGLTA is the world’s leading member-based organisation for LGBT+ hospitality and tourism.

John Tanzella
John Tanzella

IGLTA President/CEO John Tanzella, said: “We are incredibly proud that Marriott International has decided to enhance its engagement with IGLTA, helping us to continue expanding our worldwide resources for LGBT+ travelers and the tourism industry.

“It’s through strong partnerships with global leaders such as Marriott International that we are able to demonstrate the strength of the LGBT+ tourism market and help to make travel more welcoming for all.”

Marriott International’s move to the top-level of IGLTA global partners comes after years of participation in the association’s partner program.

Apoorva Gandhi, Vice President, Multicultural Affairs for Marriott International, said: “We are honoured to be a global ally with IGLTA leaders who not only share our values, but also our commitment to welcoming all. There is nothing more important for a global hospitality leader than to ensure everyone, including our many LGBTQ colleagues, families, friends, business partners and guests are welcome everywhere they stay.”

Cherilyn Williams, Marriott International’s Global Director of Portfolio Marketing Strategy and Planning, added: “We have long been recognised for our dedication to inclusion and equality as demonstrated by our perfect 100 percent score on the Corporate Equality Index, along with path-breaking campaigns celebrating #LoveTravels.”

This year, Marriott became the first global hospitality company to endorse the historic United Nations LGBTI Standards of Conduct for Business, aimed to tackle discrimination globally against Lesbian, Gay, Bi, Trans and Intersex People.

The International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association is the leading member-based global organisation dedicated to LGBT+ tourism and a proud Affiliate Member of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation.

IGLTA’s mission is to provide information and resources for LGBT+ travelers and expand LGBT+ tourism globally by demonstrating its significant social and economic impact. The association’s membership includes LGBT+ and LGBT+ friendly accommodations, destinations, service providers, travel agents, tour operators, events and travel media in 75 countries.

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