past eNewsletters

ATA eNewsletter

August 2010

Tourism Industry Stands United Against Boycotts

The Arizona Hotel & Lodging Association (AzHLA) and the Arizona Tourism Alliance (ATA) are working with the Arizona Office of Tourism (AOT) and other members of the Governor’s Tourism Task Force as well as industry partners to develop short and long-term strategies in anticipation of continued negative reactions to SB 1070.

We have long anticipated the recurrence of media coverage on boycotts related to SB 1070 to happen during the enactment date of the law, which was July 29. With several lawsuits currently being reviewed by the court requesting everything from injunctions to dismissals, Arizona – and the impact to our tourism industry – is certain to regain the media spotlight this week and we will continue to serve as the industry’s spokesperson on behalf of our members.

This story could take many different turns depending on court rulings; however, our message does not change: “Boycotts Hurt Tourism Employees and Their Families.” Here’s how we’re prepared to relay that message:

• We have updated our united industry statement and talking points to reflect our stance on this issue. Both documents are posted on our websites: www.azhla.com and www.aztourismalliance.org.   
• We are responding to all media requests and have already conducted interviews with CNN International, Telemundo and Hotel Business this week. As court rulings are made and/or July 29 draws closer, we expect to answer countless additional media calls.
• As a member of the Governor’s tourism task force, we have been working closely with AOT who has enlisted the assistance of local PR agency, HMA, to assist in strategy and industry response in order to minimize negative exposure and reinforce positive and realistic messaging.
• The first step of that strategy is to draft editorials from our industry leaders to be placed in nationwide newspapers – specifically targeted to feeder markets for group and leisure business.
• Once the media frenzy of the upcoming week dies down and we have started to change the tone with editorials, we will work with HMA and AOT on a long-term strategy to repair Arizona’s image and to promote tourism to the state. This effort will include traditional and social media outreach and will enlist the assistance of our entire industry. Stay tuned for more information regarding that plan that will take us through the remainder of 2010.

Although we are faced with this challenging and unprecedented situation that has no direct link to our industry, we are working diligently to defend, support and promote our members and are here to answer any questions or concerns that you might have. The value of membership in our organizations is that your voice is heard so if you have ideas and input on how we can address any these actions, we welcome your feedback. Please contact Kristen Jarnagin.

about the ATA
events
eNewsletter