
Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
Destinations International believes in the importance of cultivating a tourism industry that represents a wide variety of individuals at every level of our member organizations. We celebrate the broad range of human differences among us, while also embracing the commonalities we all share.
Destinations International Working Definition of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
Destinations International is committed to creating spaces and places in the travel industry that promote a true sense of welcoming and belonging for people of all backgrounds, perspectives, and abilities. As human beings we can empathize what it feels like to receive a warm smile, to connect, and to feel like you can safely and responsibly immerse yourself into the intricate fabric of a destination.
Using this mindset, we acknowledge the array of identities that exist in this world and that every person should be valued and treated in an equitable manner. To us, this means we recognize that each person has different life circumstances and abilities, and we will do our best to allocate resources to reach an equal outcome of opportunity and respect for all.
We realize that the world is constantly evolving with many diverse perspectives and identities contributing to this industry. To align with newfound knowledge, we will keep an open mind and acknowledge the mosaic of identities as they arise through the characteristics we were born with, experiences we have had, and the choices we have made in our lifetime. Our working definition of diversity includes and is not limited to race, ethnicity, national origin, gender identity and expression, sexual/romantic attraction, religious affiliation, political belief, dietary selection and preference, mental and physical abilities, neurodiversity, age, thinking styles, body size and appearance, hair texture, socioeconomic status, marital status, parental status, language, spoken accents, and educational levels.
As we recognize the importance of equity and the diverse identities that make up the world, we strive to create spaces where people feel included, respected, feel seen, feel heard, feel valued, and feel like they belong.
Our association is committed to transforming destination and member communities through the principles of welcoming and belonging, equity, diversity, and inclusion so their destinations and places of work are true reflections of their communities.
We do this by listening, developing brave spaces for discussion to take place, ensuring all verticals of our work incorporate these principles, collecting data and feedback to produce research, creating measurable tools to help our members implement initiatives with accountability, curating education and resources, partnering and collaborating with organizations and experts to offer niche programming, and tailoring facilitated dialogues, training, EDI assessments and related services to provide our members with trusted guidance for true economic and social transformation.
Our Alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals
Our Alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is a framework comprising of 17 goals and 169 targets that organizations can use as a guide to measure their contributions toward sustainable development. The SDGs were created to value people, planet, prosperity, peace, and partnership throughout the world.
Our EDI goals are reflective of the following SDGs:
- SDG 5: Gender Equality
- SDG 10: Reduced inequalities
- SDG 11: Sustainable cities and communities
EDI Resources
Explore our 2020 and 2022 EDI report which examines overall demographics, perceptions, and trends about equity, diversity, and inclusion within destination organizations, extend your commitment to implementing thoughtful strategies that create a deeper sense of welcoming and belonging through our inclusive leadership pledge, and join the waitlist to receive information on the latest professional development training.
Our EDI Services
We offer a variety of affordable services tailored to create meaningful impact through a welcoming and belonging lens.
Board Diversity Best Practices for Destination Organizations
Download this resource to understand why board diversity is a must at destination organizations.