Members of the tourism industry in more than 40 cities rallied May 12 to highlight the importance of travel and meetings on the nation’s economy.
The rally was part of a national campaign organized by the U.S. Travel Association aimed to boost such destinations as Cincinnati; Beaumont, Texas; Cincinnati; Louisville, Ky.; Park City, Utah; and Santa Monica, Calif.
More than 1,000 people were estimated to have attended the rally in New Orleans. Hospitality employees there marched down Canal Street with a high school marching band and a streetcar.
A rally was also held in downtown St. Louis at Kiener Plaza.
“Our community relies on travel for tax revenue and jobs and the benefits these bring to our economy,” said Kathleen Ratcliffe, president and CEO of the St. Louis CVC. “With today’s event we hope to raise awareness and showcase why travel matters to St. Louis.”
Hundreds of casino industry employees gathered outside the Las Vegas Convention Center to bring attention to the cause. Many people were wearing blue, Nevada’s state color, to show support for the travel and tourism industry.
