Fourth International Conference on Tourism and Leisure Studies

Abstract

The current landscape of tourism and leisure studies within the United States and globally is problematic toward populations of difference. With the recent U.S. presidential election already causing hate crimes promoting xenophobia, misogyny, and homophobia; what will the travel and leisure studies environment look like globally for the future? For this workshop, we would like to offer a brave space for dialogue and discussion of issues of diversity and inclusion in tourism and leisure studies. We hope to break down stereotypes and implicit biases ingrained through systemic racism, patriarchy, and heteronormative views passed down and shared through cultures and institutions. In this workshop, we will use critical race theory (Taylor, Gillborn, & Ladson-Billings, 2011), whiteness studies (Zuberi & Bonilla-Silva, 2008), and queer theory (Sullivan, 2003), as the backbone from which to discuss the time and important issues of diversity and inclusion.