Indianapolis Tourism welcomes LGBT travelers, despite Religious Freedom Restoration Act
Indianapolis tourism has made it clear, via website rebranding, that it welcomes LGBT tourists, despite the recent passing of the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, which some say could allow for discrimination against members of the gay community.
The website’s homepage boasts a rainbow flag and the words, “All are welcome here.” It also links to the LGBT guide to the city and reminds potential visitors that the city has been named one of the most underrated cities for gay travelers.
Speaking to The Huffington Post, the vice president for Visit Indy, Chris Gahl, said that the guide had been featured for many years but that it is now featured more prominently because of the passing of the bill.
"We are overly aware that there is a perception that Indianapolis no longer welcoming as a city, no longer inclusive as a city because the state has passed a new law," he said. "So we want to do everything we can do as a city within a state to ensure our visitors, no matter their age, ethnicity, gender, religion, so that everyone and anyone feels welcome. Just because a piece of paper's been signed doesn't mean our mentality and Hoosier hospitality has been taken away."
Since the bill's itnroduction last week, many States, businesses and high-profile individuals have condemned it.