Navigating LGBTQIA+ Inclusion: Event Pros Share Strategies for 2025's Political ClimateNavigating LGBTQIA+ Inclusion: Event Pros Share Strategies for 2025's Political Climate
In our two-part Pride Month series, industry professionals share candid conversations about LGBTQIA+ inclusion in the business events world—from navigating political challenges to practical ways allies can step up—highlighting why supporting the community must extend far beyond June's rainbow celebrations, particularly given the current environment in the U.S.
The business events industry has long fostered connection, community, and culture. In this two-part series in recognition of Pride Month, we asked professionals across industry sectors to share their perspectives on the state of inclusivity and our shared responsibility to enact meaningful change. Their insights reinforce the need for year-round action.
Cameron Curtis, CMM, CAE, Executive Director, LGBT MPA Founder & Chief Innovator, C2 Association Strategies
How will the Trump administration’s rollback of LGBTQIA+ protections and DEI impact events?
Concerns over DEI rollbacks and lost LGBTQIA+ protections are influencing travel decisions. Boycotts don’t work, but organizations are prioritizing destinations that ensure a safe, inclusive experience. Even LGBTQIA+ supportive destinations in regions with discriminatory laws will feel the impact.
How can the meetings industry better support LGBTQIA+ professionals and attendees?
Using acronyms or softer terms weakens the message. We must say “Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging” outright. Shifting language to vague phrases like “conscious inclusion” dilutes the commitment to marginalized communities. As an industry, we must be intentional in naming and reinforcing these values.
How can allies in the industry better advocate for LGBTQIA+ inclusion?
Allyship isn’t passive—it requires consistent action. Impact matters more than intention. Allies speak up when others stay silent, challenge harmful narratives, and use their influence to shift culture, not just policy.
Dean Armintrout, Senior Director, Marketing and Events for a leading technology company
How will the Trump administration’s rollback of LGBTQIA+ protections and DEI impact events?
We prioritize hosting events in destinations that celebrate diversity. Even so, the administration’s policies might deter international attendees. Some countries are restricting travel to the U.S. or issuing warnings, which might impact attendance.
How can allies in the industry better advocate for LGBTQIA+ inclusion?
Push back against exclusionary policies. Engage with government leaders on DEIB’s importance for business and tourism, ensuring inclusion remains a priority at every level.
How will you celebrate Pride Month?
I’ll be attending the Pride parade with my husband and daughter, then celebrating at the local Pride Festival.
What’s a fun fact about yourself that would surprise people?
I eat a spoonful of peanut butter every day.
Kathryn Wells, Founder, The Wellsbridge Group
How will the Trump administration’s rollback of LGBTQIA+ protections and DEI impact events?
Expect reduced funding, performative partnerships, and hesitation from tentative institutions. This demands strategic, vocal, collective action—especially as inclusion becomes politicized.
How can the meetings industry better support LGBTQIA+ professionals and attendees?
LGBTQIA+ inclusion must go beyond optics and be embedded in business practices. Prioritize supplier diversity by hiring LGBTQIA+-owned vendors, showcasing queer creatives, and ensuring contracts reflect inclusive values. Representation must extend beyond a Pride panel in June—it requires year-round visibility in speakers, sponsorships, and leadership.
How can allies in the industry better advocate for LGBTQIA+ inclusion?
Allyship isn’t passive. Request inclusive policies in vendor contracts, advocate for LGBTQIA+ speakers and vendors before being asked, and challenge the "we’ve always done it this way" mindset. Performative allyship is adding a rainbow to a logo in June. Real allyship is sharing power and resources, not just hashtags.
What’s a fun fact about you?
I was a foster kid who grew up to lead community initiatives and sit on boards. Turns out, surviving chaos was great training for leading mission-driven work.
Brecht Putman, CMP, Senior Association Relations Manager North America
How can the meetings industry better support LGBTQIA+ professionals and attendees?
Every DMO has an opportunity to drive meaningful change by actively engaging with global advocacy groups. As a board member of LGBT MPA, I encourage industry professionals to join the movement and support LGBTQIA+ inclusion.
How can allies in the industry better advocate for LGBTQIA+ inclusion?
Industry associations must normalize LGBTQIA+ representation on panels, rather than isolating it. Meeting professionals must weigh inclusion alongside infrastructure and value when selecting destinations. Prioritizing welcoming environments makes a real difference.
How will you celebrate Pride Month?
I’m a volunteer with the Ali Forney Center in New York City, which supports LGBTQIA+ youth experiencing homelessness. I’ll also join friends at WorldPride 2025 in Washington, D.C., to honor how far we’ve come—and acknowledge how far we still have to go.
