Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1537157
17 17 B M & T ••• July/August 2025 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 3 CONTENTS 15 15 VOLUME 32, ISSUE 4, JULY/AUGUST 2025 4 Publisher's Message 5 Calendar of Events 6 In The News 8 Newsmakers 10 Hotel Happenings 28 C nter of Attention 36 Caribbean Corner 38 Travel Data 39 Barbados 40 Hawaii 41 Maryland 44 Michigan 46 New York 48 Portland 49 Rhode Island 50 San Antonio COVER STORY FEATURES DEPARTMENT AREA GUIDES 25 25 Tourism's role as a major economic driver has been well established. According to the U.S. Travel Association, in 2023, the travel and tourism industry contributed $2.6 trillion to the U.S. economy and supported over 20 million jobs. The Misguided Chainsaw: Cutting Cultural Tourism Funds Impacts The Nation explores the devastating effects the cur- rent administration is having on our industry. By Laura Mandala 29 29 26 26 12 12 As we all know, in recent weeks, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs have faced significant setbacks and mounting backlash across various industries throughout the nation. Notably for tourism, this trend started back in 2023 when the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis, abolished all DEI pro- grams, labeling them as "illegal and un-American," a move that set the stage for the broader, more bolder acts we are witnessing today. An Open Letter to the Industry: Are We Behind The Curve in Our Efforts to Target the Ethnic Market? cuts to the core of the matter. By Toni Walker In the bustling heart of Atlanta's Southside, Mercedes Miller stands as a symbol of visionary leadership and dedication. With a career spanning over three decades in hospitality, Miller's inaugural year as president of the ATL Airport District Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) reflects her unwavering commitment to excellence and her deep roots in the community. A Conversation With Mercedes Miller tells the whole story. By Toni Walker Norfolk Unveiled: A Maritime City With A Heart For Meetings explores Norfolk as more than a coastal dot on the map—it's one of the nation's most essential maritime cities. Home to Naval Station Norfolk, the largest naval base in the world, the city stands as a living intersection of duty, tradition, and global reach. By Zyan Avraham 19 19 In the meetings world, "second tier" doesn't mean second best. It means smarter budgets, short- er commutes, and deeper connections, especially when cities deliver top tier service without the inflated price tag. Across the country, mid-sized des- tinations are investing heavily in modern convention centers, first class hotels, and cultural experiences that honor history while inviting innovation. Second Tier: Top Choice highlights seven destina- tions where planners will find state-of-the-art facili- ties, deeply rooted African-American cultural experi- ences, and engaging cityscapes that support both productivity and purposeful downtime. BL ACK MEETINGS & TOURISM LLC Choosing the right venue for your meeting or conference is a crucial step in the planning process. Select a destination or facility that doesn't resonate with your target audience and you very well may put a damper on attendance, no matter how spectacular your scheduled program may be. Great Gaming Roundup will assist you in selecting the right venue for a memorable meeting. By Zyan Avraham High Manhattan, New York view over looking Central Park photo credit: PopMedia Group/RIngram Caribbean Week in New York (CWNY 2025) concluded in June with high praise from Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) Chairman Ian Gooding-Edghill, who declared the 2025 edition a powerful testament to regional unity, strategic vision, and for- ward-thinking leadership. An Exciting Time" As Caribbean Week 2025 Wraps With Strong Momentum provides all the details. e