Tourism Vernon, with Rainbow Registered accredication, set to celebrate Pride Week

Know that when you visit Vernon you will be welcomed with open arms.

Last year marked a significant milestone for Tourism Vernon, as it received the prestigious Rainbow Registered accreditation from Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce. The documentation proves the organization’s ongoing dedication to fostering a welcoming atmosphere for 2SLGBTQI+ travellers.

That commitment will be on full display during the upcoming Vernon Pride Week, which will be held Aug. 12-18. As a proud unicorn sponsor of the colourful event, Tourism Vernon is looking forward to celebrating with the community. Vernon Pride Week, organized by Vernon Pride Society, is a vibrant celebration of diversity, showcasing the unity and strength of the local and visiting 2SLGBTQI+ community.

“Our team is proud to be part of this program and lead the way to let 2SLGBTQI+ travellers know they can enjoy a safe and fun stay when visiting Vernon,” Tourism Vernon marketing co-ordinator Hannah Lucich says. “We encourage businesses to check out the program and to consider applying to showcase Vernon’s welcoming community to all visitors.”

The criteria for receiving the Rainbow Registered accreditation includes showcasing diversity in marketing materials, fostering partnerships with other 2SLGBTQI+-friendly organizations and providing specialized training for Tourism Vernon’s visitor services team. These steps ensure every interaction happens with respect and understanding.

Rainbow Registration not only signals a company’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity, but it can also improve the workplace culture and attract a diverse workforce. It also increases visibility among 2SLGBTQI+ customers who prefer to support businesses that actively promote and support their rights. This can lead to increased customer loyalty and a stronger customer base.

Tourism Vernon is also part of Travelling Out in the Thompson Okanagan, or TOTO, which is a Destination British Columbia-funded initiative that spreads the word about safe and welcoming travel experiences across the region. Tourism Kelowna, Tourism Kamloops, Visit Penticton and Destination Osoyoos are also TOTO members. The partnership emphasizes the region’s collective commitment to celebrating and embracing diversity, inviting travellers to explore and enjoy everything the Thompson-Okanagan has to offer.

Vernon Pride Week will kick off on Monday, Aug. 12, with flag raisings in Vernon and Coldstream, and it will wrap up the following weekend with Pride in the Park at Polson Park on Friday, Aug. 16, and Pride Day at Civic Memorial Park on Saturday, Aug. 17.

Everyone—and that really means everyone—is welcome.

This article is written by or on behalf of the sponsoring client and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.