Social 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.
Find a comprehensive list of all of our social inclusion resources here.
Destinations International's Commitment to Inclusive Travel Experiences
Rooted in the values of community and belonging, our approach to inclusion emphasizes the importance of creating spaces where everyone feels welcome. We celebrate the diverse backgrounds, abilities and experiences that enrich our shared world, while affirming our collective desire to be treated with respect, dignity and care.
Using the Social Inclusion Framework to Strengthen Communities and Destinations
At first glance, linking social inclusion to the critical issues destinations face daily might seem complex. However, inclusion, empathy and belonging are essential for addressing these challenges. They provide the foundation for understanding systemic barriers, building supportive alliances, fostering compassionate communication and advancing sustainable economic and social growth.
By embedding inclusion into our work, we can tackle societal topics that influence community well-being and the economic vitality of our destination. This approach underscores the importance of creating safe, welcoming and accessible spaces for all, where every individual feels valued and appreciated.
How to Apply Our Social Inclusion Framework:
1. Identify key topics that are central to your destination's growth and impact internally and externally.
2. Communicate why these topics matter to your community, visitors, and stakeholders.
3. Assess ongoing inclusion-related programs and initiatives within your destination.
4. Evaluate the current participation and representation of underrepresented groups from your community.
5. Strategize ways to meaningfully engage and include underrepresented groups in these initiatives.
Through this intentional approach, we can foster stronger, more inclusive communities while enhancing the impact and sustainability of our destinations.
Social Impact Principles
Choose an option below for a video overview or explore the YouTube playlist.
Why Social Inclusion?
Accessibility
Board Governance
Community Representation and Engagement
Crime and Safety
Destination Stewardship
Diversification and Development of Workforce
Engagement with Underrepresented Populations
Homelessness
Mental Health and Wellbeing
Migration and Immigration
Supplier Strategy
Welcoming and Belonging
Youth Engagement
Destinations International’s Working Definition of Inclusion
At Destinations International, we are dedicated to fostering spaces and places within the travel industry that cultivate a true sense of community, welcoming and belonging for individuals of all backgrounds and abilities. We understand the profound human connection created by a warm smile, the opportunity to engage meaningfully, and the safety and responsibility of immersing oneself in the intricate fabric of a destination – whether you are a part of the community or a visitor.
With this mindset, we embrace the vast diversity of identities in our world and affirm that every individual deserves to be valued and treated equitably. Inclusion, to us, means recognizing the unique circumstances and abilities of each person and striving to allocate resources that lead to equitable outcomes—ensuring opportunity, respect and dignity for all.
We acknowledge that our world is ever-evolving, shaped by the contributions of different perspectives and identities. To align with this knowledge, we commit to keeping an open mind and recognizing the mosaic of human identities that exist, which includes, but 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 all human beings 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 Alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs)
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) addresses the importance of inclusion and implementing initiatives that create welcoming spaces for people of all backgrounds and abilities. The adoption of social inclusion as stated by the UN can lead to increased innovation and productivity within teams and profitability through an engaged community, diversification of visitors and increased visitor satisfaction.
Destinations International aligns with the following SDGs for our social inclusion strategy:
• SDG 5: Gender Equality
• SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Social inclusion is crucial for building a more just and cohesive society where everyone has a sense of belonging and is able to reach their full potential. We encourage you to think about the importance of this shift toward social inclusion and the impact it has upon the vitality of your destination or organization.
Social Inclusion Resources
Discover essential tools designed to measure progress toward inclusion goals and empower your organization to demonstrate commitment to fostering inclusive environments for all community members and visitors.
Social Impact Assessment Tool
Evaluate workplace dynamics, operations, policies, vendor selection, community engagement, accessibility, board governance, and destination stewardship efforts with precision. Elevate your commitment to inclusion by leveraging a comprehensive tool that guides you through the intricate facets of progress assessment.
Becoming a Community Shared Value
Explore the core values essential for fostering community support through our workbook. Gain valuable insights and create a roadmap tailored to your organization's success. Start your journey today and unlock the potential of community engagement.
Our Inclusion Focused Services
Tailored for members across diverse geographies and budget categories, our services place a strong emphasis on human connection and mental health and wellness. We provide practical strategies for fostering empathy across various perspectives, abilities, and identities. Whether remote or in-person, our listed services and sessions ensure accessibility and flexibility to meet your unique needs.
Social Inclusion Lexicon
Creating welcoming spaces where people feel like they belong is critical to community vitality and sustained economic growth, and we must complement metrics with a compelling narrative that appeals to emotions and core values.
Accessibility Playbook
In partnership with Destinations International, TravelAbility has created a customized Accessibility Playbook designed to assist destination organizations and their local stakeholders in developing and implementing practical accessibility strategies and initiatives, enabling them to better welcome and accommodate people with disabilities within their destination.
The Impact of the HBCU Scholarship
In its second year, the Destinations International Foundation's HBCU Scholarship Program continues to positively impact future industry professionals by awarding nine hospitality and tourism management students $8,000 for the 2024-2025 academic school year. Learn about the impact of this incredible program.
Workforce Development Brief
Destinations International's workforce brief, "Addressing Workforce Development and Retention in the Travel Industry," emphasizes the significant need for a more diverse industry workforce in United States.
Global Accessibility Report
The Global Accessibility Report, a collaborative research effort from City Destinations Alliance (CityDNA) and Destinations International, provides a foundational understanding of the global initiatives around accessibility.
Submit Your Thought Leadership
What is your destination working on regarding social inclusion? Share it with the Destinations International team! Learn how to submit a case study, blog or other piece of content to DI.