Air travel is off to a smooth start this long weekend, but that's likely to change — first from snow in the Northeast then in the Deep South thanks to a second winter storm, this one a potential whopper now brewing off the Texas coast.
07.01.2025 - 21:16 / travelpulse.com / North America / Lacey Pfalz
WHY IT RATES: The destination marketing organization is empowering small minority-owned local businesses with a fellowship program connected with its tourism industry. — Lacey Pfalz, Associate Writer, TravelPulse
Destination DC (DDC), the official destination marketing organization for Washington, DC, is proud to continue its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion by supporting small minority-owned local businesses as part of a complimentary membership program.
“As an organization dedicated to driving economic impact through tourism, we believe a thriving hospitality industry must also be an inclusive one,” said Elliott L. Ferguson, II, president and CEO of Destination DC. “The DEI Business Fellowship program (DEIBF) exemplifies our commitment to equity by equipping minority-owned businesses with tools, resources and connections to help them succeed in the tourism and events market. By spotlighting the diverse entrepreneurs who contribute to Washington, DC's vibrant culture, we not only elevate their visibility but also strengthen the city’s economy and enrich the visitor experience.”
The DEI Business Fellowship program supports local businesses owned by people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, women, veterans and persons with disabilities. Fellows receive a complimentary, one-year DDC membership offering marketing support, networking opportunities, training and access to new business channels. DDC will also collaborate with Miles Partnership on destination optimization using digital tools and platforms. The 2025 DEI Fellows are:
DDC’s mission and commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion also includes the American Experience Foundation (AEF), its 501c-3 nonprofit focused on providing scholarships and career experience to local students. In 2024, AEF surpassed $170,000 awarded in scholarships over the past nine years. The scholarships support students on their journeys in hospitality, tourism and professional careers through higher education.
DDC is also uniquely positioned to share with visitors Washington, DC’s history and experiences connected with racial and social equity. The “DEI District” launched in 2021 and provides curated content focused on how DC can be experienced through a DEI lens. The pillars include visit, engage, learn and meet while connecting to content related to leisure, meetings and education audiences to help promote the unique history and experiences in DC.
DDC’s DEIBF program is highlighted in a white paper titled Advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion through Destination DC’s DEI Business Fellowship. The program was recognized with the Global Destination Sustainability Movement Innovation Award for exemplifying how targeted DEI initiatives can drive economic
Air travel is off to a smooth start this long weekend, but that's likely to change — first from snow in the Northeast then in the Deep South thanks to a second winter storm, this one a potential whopper now brewing off the Texas coast.
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