This development has been seen as yet another attempt by state officials to erase the LGBTQ+ community's presence in Florida.

The removal of the LGBTQ+ section from Visit Florida's website came to light after NBC News reported on the change. Although the section itself is no longer visible on the site, certain LGBTQ+-friendly listings can still be found through search queries. Nonetheless, business owners and advocates argue that the omission sends a clear message of exclusion and erasure.

Republican Governor Ron DeSantis has faced criticism for his stance on LGBTQ+ issues. He has championed a bill aimed at prohibiting classroom discussions on sexual orientation and gender identity. Additionally, DeSantis has supported a ban on gender-affirming care for minors and a law specifically intended to keep children out of drag shows. The removal of the LGBTQ+ section from Visit Florida's website is seen as part of a broader pattern of anti-LGBTQ+ policies.

Keith Blackburn, the head of the Greater Fort Lauderdale LGBT Chamber of Commerce, expressed outrage at the decision, stating, "It's just disgusting to see this. They seem to want to erase us." This sentiment reflects the frustration felt by many LGBTQ+ business owners who rely on promoting South Florida tourism.

The tourism industry is a vital part of Florida's economy, with the state attracting nearly 141 million visitors in 2023. Out-of-state visitors alone contributed over $102 billion to Florida's economy. However, the removal of the LGBTQ+ section on Visit Florida's website and the state's anti-LGBTQ+ policies create challenges for promoting inclusive tourism.

Last year, civil rights groups issued a travel advisory for Florida, citing policies that were viewed as openly hostile towards African Americans, people of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals. Despite this, many cities in Florida are extremely inclusive, with gay elected officials and LGBTQ+-owned businesses. It is important for visitors to understand that the actions of state government do not necessarily reflect the attitudes of these cities.

Keith Blackburn acknowledges that stories like these and the state's actions make it difficult to attract visitors to South Florida. Some travelers and travel promoters express their reluctance to do business in the state due to these discriminatory policies. Efforts to promote the destination become embarrassing and challenging when they have to explain why people should visit despite the state's actions.

The removal of the LGBTQ+ section from Visit Florida's website is seen as a setback for inclusivity and sends a negative message to LGBTQ+ travelers. It remains to be seen how this development will impact LGBTQ+ tourism in the state and whether alternative methods will be implemented to cater to the LGBTQ+ community.

As of now, officials from Visit Florida have not provided an official comment on the removal of the LGBTQ+ section. The agency is a public-private partnership between the state of Florida and the tourism industry, with the state contributing approximately $50 million annually. The decision to remove the LGBTQ+ section has raised concerns and stirred a backlash that highlights the ongoing struggle for acceptance and inclusivity in Florida's tourism industry.