–advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion

IN celebration of World Tourism Day 2024, the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) has joined forces with ‘Guyana Together’, a local advocacy group, to promote diversity, inclusion, and support for lifting the bans on LGBTQ+ partnerships in the country.
The event, held under the global theme “Tourism and Peace: Embracing Peace through Diversity and Inclusion,” highlighted the importance of LGBTQ+ inclusivity in Guyana’s growing tourism sector.
Speaking at the event, THAG President, Omadele “Dee” George, expressed her enthusiasm for THAG’s involvement in the ‘Guyana Together’ campaign. She emphasised the critical need for dialogue to reduce stigma and discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals, including local and international tourists, as well as co-workers, family members, and neighbours.

Mrs. George noted the economic potential of the LGBTQ+ travel market, which accounts for between seven and nine percent of the global travel industry.
Citing research from the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association, she pointed out that LGBTQ+ travellers generally spend more money per trip, visit more often, and engage in more activities compared to their non-LGBTQ+ counterparts. According to Guyana’s 2024 visitor arrival report, LGBTQ+ tourists spend 20 percent more on activities and participate in two additional activities per trip.
“By alienating this market segment, Guyana is not benefitting from a potentially high-spending, high-frequency demographic,” Mrs. George said. She highlighted that the global LGBTQ+ market contributes over $200 billion annually to the travel industry, with the U.S. market alone accounting for $65 billion.

If Guyana were to capture just one percent of the global LGBTQ+ travel market, this could translate into a $2 billion increase in annual tourism revenue. Even a modest five percent share of the U.S. market alone could bring in an additional $320 million annually for the sector.
Mrs. George also called for legal reforms to align the country’s laws with Guyanese values of respect and dignity for all citizens. She pointed to the need for the repeal of Section 353 of the Sexual Offences Act, which carries a maximum sentence of ten years for consensual same-sex relations. She encouraged everyone to speak up against the stigma faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, stressing that advocacy should not only arise when personal relationships are involved.
“We must be inclusive of everyone in our discussions, and while we are mindful of societal norms, we must push forward for change,” Mrs. George added. She reaffirmed THAG’s commitment to ongoing advocacy in collaboration with civic groups, trade unions, private sector bodies, and other organisations across Guyana.

Also speaking at the event was Akesh Gangaram, Human Resources Manager of the Guyana Marriott Hotel, who highlighted Marriott’s dedication to global diversity, inclusiveness, and support for LGBTQ+ staff and guests. Gangaram noted that international travellers seek destinations where people of all backgrounds are treated equally and with respect.

“As Guyana continues to grow as the world’s fastest-growing economy, we are opening our doors for foreign investment, especially in the tourism sector. Guyana is a welcoming and inclusive destination for everyone,” Gangaram said, reinforcing the country’s commitment to creating an environment where all individuals can thrive.

With World Tourism Day 2024 serving as a platform for inclusivity and diversity, both ‘Guyana Together’ and THAG hope to make strides toward a more accepting and economically vibrant Guyana.