HARTFORD, Conn., Sept. 9,
2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In response to recent actions by
Florida's official tourism board
to remove LGBTQ+ travel information from its official website,
Connecticut is stepping forward to
reaffirm its commitment to being one of the top most welcoming
state in the nation. As LGBTQ+ History Month approaches in October,
Connecticut's tourism office is
highlighting the state's enduring tradition of inclusivity
and diversity, reminding everyone that Connecticut is a great place to live, work,
and play – no matter who you are or who you love.
"We want to send a strong message to everyone, particularly to
those in Florida—and across the country—who may feel their needs
and identities are being sidelined, to know that in Connecticut you will always find acceptance"
said Anthony Anthony, Chief
Marketing Officer for the State of
Connecticut. "Here, diversity is celebrated, and we
remain committed to ensuring everyone who visits or lives here
feels valued, respected, and free to be yourself."
Connecticut: A National
Leader in Diversity and Inclusion
Connecticut has long been recognized for its
progressive stance on LGBTQ+ rights and its commitment to fostering
an inclusive environment for all residents and visitors. While
other states pull back on their support for the LGBTQ+ community,
Connecticut continues to lead,
with strong anti-discrimination laws and active LGBTQ+ community
organizations contributing to one of the most welcoming
environments in the country.
Recently, the state was ranked as one of the top two in the
nation for its LGBTQ+ business climate by Out Leadership for its
policies, protections, and equal treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Connecticut has also earned
perfect scores on the Human Rights Campaign's Municipal Equality
Index for several cities, further affirming its leadership in
supporting the LGBTQ+ community. Additionally, the state is a
recognized leader in transgender healthcare access by the
Transgender Law Center.
"These accolades reflect the heart of who we are as a state,"
adds Anthony. "They're not just awards—they represent our daily
commitment to fostering a community where everyone can feel safe,
accepted, and celebrated. We lead by example, ensuring that our
policies and practices not only protect but also empower every
individual who calls Connecticut
home."
Extensive Resources for the LGBTQ+
Community
Connecticut has gone beyond words,
implementing extensive legal protections, services, and resources
that support the LGBTQ+ community. These include comprehensive
anti-discrimination laws, gender-neutral birth certificates, and a
ban on conversion therapy. The state also ensures equal adoption
rights, supports second-parent adoption, and offers extensive
resources within the education system, including inclusive school
policies and LGBTQ+ curricula. Additionally, Connecticut provides critical healthcare
services, including transgender healthcare coverage, comprehensive
sexual health education, and support for LGBTQ+ youth through
community centers and specialized organizations.
LGBTQ+ History Month
- CTvisit.com: Throughout LGBTQ+ History
Month, Connecticut will
prominently feature its robust LGBTQ+ friendly businesses, events,
and communities on CTvisit.com. The site serves as a comprehensive
guide for residents and visitors looking for welcoming and
inclusive spaces. By making these resources easily accessible,
Connecticut continues to show its
unwavering commitment to inclusion.
- Outreach to Florida's
LGBTQ+ Community: In response to the recent developments in
Florida, Connecticut will be launching a digital ad
campaign targeted at LGBTQ+ individuals and families in
Florida, inviting them to discover
what makes Connecticut a welcoming
alternative. The campaign emphasizes that inclusivity is a core
value in Connecticut, and everyone
is encouraged to explore all the state has to offer.
"Our message is clear," said Anthony. "In Connecticut, everyone
is welcome. Unlike Florida which
has removed LGBTQ+ resources from its tourism website, we are proud
to prominently feature out commitment to inclusivity across all our
platforms, including CTvisit.com. Our marketing efforts showcase
Connecticut as a beacon of safety,
acceptance, and opportunity for all, ensuring our state remains a
destination where everyone can truly belong."
For more information on LGBTQ+ history month, visit
www.ctvisit.com.
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SOURCE The Connecticut Office of Tourism