EQUAL GROUND continues to build on its commitment to creating a safer, more empowering environment for LGBTIQ individuals in Sri Lanka with the launch of its latest tourism-focused initiative. Guided by its vision to create safe spaces for all LGBTIQ individuals and to provide opportunities for empowerment, EQUAL GROUND has expanded its work into one of Sri Lanka’s most influential industries, tourism.
Recognising that tourism plays a vital role in shaping Sri Lanka’s international reputation and in accelerating the economic growth, EQUAL GROUND has embarked on a strategic effort to make Sri Lanka a safe, welcoming and inclusive tourist destination for LGBTIQ travellers around the globe. This initiative builds on the organisation’s 10 years of experience conducting Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DE&I) training with more than 50 corporate institutions across Sri Lanka, an area in which EQUAL GROUND has been a pioneer for years. Drawing from this extensive expertise, the organisation has now begun conducting dedicated DE&I workshops for hospitality and tourism stakeholders, including hotel staff, tour operators, tour guides, tour drivers and other service providers.
These workshops introduce participants to concepts related to Global LGBTIQ Tourism Trends, Key Aspects of LGBTIQ Travel, and Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity & Expression. By supporting tourism professionals in understanding diverse identities and lived experiences, EQUAL GROUND aims to strengthen Sri Lanka’s reputation as a safe and inclusive destination for all LGBTIQ travellers.
The programme has already seen early success. EQUAL GROUND conducted its first set of workshops with teams from Kandy and Colombo, engaging staff in meaningful dialogue, awareness-building activities, and practical learning modules. These sessions were met with enthusiasm and a strong willingness from participants to champion inclusivity within their establishments. Given the positive response, EQUAL GROUND plans to expand its DE&I training across the island, working with tourism providers in all major regions.
Parallel to its corporate-focused approach, EQUAL GROUND has also launched training for local LGBTIQ individuals to choose the Tourism industry for employment, creating a friendlier, more trusting and accepting atmosphere for the LGBTIQ travellers and providing much-needed employment to our fellow community members. These sessions aim to empower community members with a better understanding of employment pathways, professionalism, and opportunities within the sector. The first workshop was successfully conducted, offering participants a supportive space to explore career options and engage with industry professionals. EQUAL GROUND expects to conduct these sessions all over the country, ensuring that LGBTIQ individuals interested in the tourism industry are well-equipped with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to pursue careers in the sector.
By addressing both sides of the tourism experience, industry readiness and community empowerment, EQUAL GROUND’s tourism initiative paves the way for a more inclusive future. Through ongoing education and collaboration, the organisation continues to lead efforts that ensure Sri Lanka becomes a truly welcoming destination for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.