By John Hayden
Slogans are easy to create but hard to fulfill. When Visit Lauderdale (VL) launched their Everyone Under the Sun (EUTS) campaign, they highlighted the diversity of Broward County. They have not lived up to expectations. They have exceeded them.
Leading the way is Richard Gray, VL’s Senior VP of Inclusion & Accessibility. He’s being honored as one of TravelAbility’s Accessibility Champions. While people with disabilities are prominently featured in the EUTS ads, Gray’s dedication to the cause goes back much further.
“Making tourism more accessible is a social responsibility and it is also a human right,” Gray told OutClique. “Accessible travel is important because it allows individuals with disabilities to have equal opportunities to explore and experience the world.”
When many of us think of disabilities, we likely think of people in wheelchairs or visually impaired. It’s understandable, as those are easy to quickly identify and understand. But Gray knows there are so many more people dealing with issues. “They include autism, chronic pain, learning difficulties as well as mental health conditions, anxiety, mobility and speech impairments. It is a simple tool for you to voluntarily share that you have a disability or condition that may not be immediately apparent, and that you may need a helping hand, understanding or more time in shops, at work, on transport or in a public space.”
Gray is honored by the recognition and knows it’s not just a recognition of work done, but a springboard for inclusiveness in the future. “It is a work in progress and will take time, but Visit Lauderdale is committed to being a champion and continuing to welcome all travelers,” Gray said. “Greater Fort Lauderdale businesses, specifically in the hospitality industry, can prioritize accessibility by implementing inclusive design practices, providing training for staff on ADA compliance and disability awareness, and actively seeking feedback from disabled individuals to improve their services and facilities.”
Essentially, Gray and the team at VL, are leading the way for other cities to follow and do the right thing. “There is nothing more important than to create a world that includes and respects everyone. After all, the Visit Lauderdale campaign and tagline is that we welcome Everyone Under The Sun.”
