Hi, Fellow Companions!

On July 4, 2023, we had the privilege of participating in a transformative and enlightening discussion session hosted by Equality in Tourism, in collaboration with other esteemed organizations dedicated to the advancement of tourism. This gathering brought together passionate individuals committed to addressing pressing issues within the industry.

Led by Dr. Stroma Cole, the director of Equality in Tourism, the discussion centered around sharing updates on the collective efforts of our organization and fellow participants, and delving into the challenges faced in our respective countries. The discourse revolved around critical topics such as migration issues, the exploitation of vulnerable groups, and the imperative need for sustainable practices.

During the session, each participant provided invaluable insights and perspectives based on their personal journeys and professional experiences. Dr. Stroma Cole discussed her remarkable achievements in supporting women on Mount Kilimanjaro during the pandemic era and amidst the backdrop of climate change. Equality in Tourism also conducts research on gender dynamics within the industry, addressing issues like gender-based violence and the unique anxieties faced by women. Additionally, the organization assesses the relevance and efficacy of gender education in various tourism sectors.

Representing Fair Tourism, Charlotte highlighted the significance of sustainable and community-based tourism. She emphasized the importance of upholding human rights within the industry and stressed the critical need for funding, particularly when it comes to equitable compensation for local communities involved in tourism initiatives.

Joyatri Ray from EQUATIONS shared her organization's distinctive approach to tackling tourism challenges from a specific perspective. By collaborating with stakeholders and engaging national officials, EQUATIONS aims to drive positive change in the industry. Notably, they have produced three publications focusing on post-pandemic geopolitical issues, the blue economy, and South Asian partnerships within the tourism sector.

The discussion also shed light on an upcoming symposium in October, which will explore the intersections of gender equality, climate change, and tourism. Organized as an online event, the symposium aims to provide a platform for speakers to share their personal stories and advocate for meaningful governmental action. Dr. Stroma Cole highlighted the remarkable contributions made by women in pioneering environmental mitigation efforts.

The dedication and perseverance exhibited by these remarkable women from across the globe is inspiring. Their diverse approaches and unwavering commitment to raising awareness about the role of women in the tourism industry are creating a lasting impact. As our discussion drew to a close, it was unanimously decided to embark on a collaborative endeavor to create compelling material on women and gender equality in tourism. This initiative will feature women working in the field sharing their experiences and challenges through short stories captured on camera.

Looking ahead, we have outlined plans for quarterly meetings to facilitate ongoing collaboration and progress within our network. By fostering regular dialogue and collective action, we aim to drive substantial change and promote gender equality in the tourism sector.

Written by: Alya Salma Sylvia, Zahrah Shafa Khalishah - Advokasi Women in Tourism Indonesia

Edited by: Anindwitya R. Monica

Diupload oleh: (Chatarina Selinka)

Artikel ini diterbitkan di laman womentourism.id | 14 Agustus 2023