SÃO PAULO, BRAZIL – The IGLTA Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA), convened a Leadership Think Tank in São Paulo, bringing together leaders from Brazil’s business, academic, government, LGBTQ+ organizations, and financial sectors to collaborate on strategies to grow LGBTQ+ tourism in the country.
The session built on findings from a survey of more than 400 LGBTQ+ travelers conducted by the Federal University of São Carlos with support from the IGLTA Foundation. Participants identified six strategic pillars designed to address existing gaps and support a sustainable future for LGBTQ+ tourism in Brazil. They also discussed the ongoing presence of subtle biases and hidden discrimination that exists in Brazil, noting that these factors continue to hinder broader growth of LGBTQ+ tourism. The Think Tank discussion, combined with the national survey, resulted in a new report, LGBTQ+ Travel in Brazil: Data, Insights & Strategies for Inclusive Business. IGLTA’s Membership Manager Clovis Casemiro (he/him) will debut findings from the report this week during a panel discussion on LGBTQ+ tourism at Salão do Turismo.
“Brazil has long been an engaged and important market for LGBTQ+ travel,” said John Tanzella (he/him), IGLTA President/CEO. “These types of conversations are where meaningful change begins, and we’re encouraged by the support we’re seeing across industry sectors to help this beautiful country continue growing as a welcoming destination for our community.”
The Brazil Ministry of Tourism actively participated in the discussion alongside proud IGLTA Global Partner, Accor. The Foundation extends its thanks to Simpleview, the event sponsor, Pullman São Paulo Ibirapuera for hosting, and all participating organizations whose commitment to inclusion made this important dialogue possible. A full list of participants is available in the report.
Tags: John Tanzella, International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA)
