Amadeus has joined the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) as the travel technology company works to fulfill ambitions as an active ally of the LGBTQ+ community. IGLTA has a mission to provide information and resources for LGBTQ+ travelers and expand LGBTQ+ tourism globally by demonstrating its significant social and economic impact.
“IGLTA welcomes Amadeus with open arms! Their commitment to inclusive travel experiences truly aligns with our mission to advance LGBTQ+ tourism,” said IGLTA President/CEO John Tanzella. “Their global influence adds tremendous value to our community, and we’re excited to see the collaborative opportunities their membership unlocks.”
Amadeus has a strong track record of support for the LGBTQ+ community, becoming a supporter of the United Nations Standards of Conduct for Business for tackling discrimination against Lesbian, Gay, Bi, Trans, & Intersex people in 2018. The company is also a founding member of REDI (Red Empresarial por la Diversidad e Inclusión LGBTI+), the first Spanish business network of professionals promoting LGBTQ+ equality and inclusion at work in organizations across Spain.
Shalini Nair Kumar, Head of People and Culture, APAC at Amadeus, said, “Amadeus strives to make a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace where every employee feels valued. We foster a welcoming environment that attracts top talent regardless of background, positioning Amadeus as a role model for inclusivity. We run a highly functional ally program at Amadeus. We also focus on skilling and livelihood programs for the LGBTQIA+ community and enabled the opening of Pride Café last year in Bengaluru. We adapt our products to support all genders while recognizing and respecting diverse gender identities. Leverage technology like blockchain to enhance security and privacy in document identifications, develop inclusive apps and platforms to ensure options for LGBTQ+ travelers to choose from, and utilize AI to deliver hyper-personalized recommendations, all aimed at creating a welcoming travel experience for everyone. ”
The PATA International Conference on Women in Travel scheduled from March 20 to 22, 2024, will be a 3-day conference, underscoring the crucial role of women and the current state of gender diversity in the tourism industry. As the conference is hosted by the Department of Tourism, Philippines with the full support of PATA, registration is being waived.
Within the company, Amadeus Proud, a global employee resource group where LGBTQ+ colleagues and allies can come together, is a growing space where everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity or expression is encouraged to realize their whole self, from both a personal and professional perspective.Till Streichert, Chief Financial Officer, Amadeus, and executive sponsor of Amadeus Proud added, “Support for the LGBTQ+ community has been front of mind for Amadeus for many years and our membership in IGLTA is further tangible proof of our commitment. We celebrate the diverse global LGBTQ+ community, striving to create cross-cultural understanding and a more inclusive world.”
IGLTA was founded in 1983 and is the leading global network of tourism businesses welcoming LGBTQ+ travelers. Members include LGBTQ+ friendly accommodations, transport, destinations, service providers, travel advisors, tour operators, events and travel media located in over 80 countries.
