DEI&A TOOLKIT

 
 

CalTravel is committed to strengthening our state’s travel and tourism industry by making it more diverse, equitable, inclusive, and accessible. As an industry, it is time for us to step up, take action, and ensure that our workplaces are reflective of the communities we serve.

We strongly encourage members to utilize the DEI&A resources below to develop a better understanding of the issues at hand, educate themselves on programs and practices, and become informed and empowered advocates so that—together—we can affect meaningful change in our industry.

 
 
 
 

MENTORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

 
 

CAREER HELP DESK

The Career Help Desk was created to support students and young professionals looking to succeed in the travel and tourism industry. It includes contact information for industry leaders who have offered to lend their knowledge and expertise to help young professionals excel—whether it be through mentorship, speaking engagements, or hosting interns and site visits.

Join the Career Help Desk >>
Browse the Career Help Desk >>

 
 

WEBINAR RECORDINGS

 
 

CALIFORNIA TRAVEL ASSOCIATION

 
 

INSIGHTS ON INTERNSHIPS
February 14, 2025

Internships serve as an important bridge from college to career—increasing skills, expanding networks, and offering direct pathways to job offers. They also serve as a significant recruiting mechanism for employers, providing them with the opportunity to guide and evaluate potential candidates.

HOW TO CATER TO THE NEEDS OF AUTISTIC TRAVELERS
June 7, 2024

An estimated 20% of the global population is neurodivergent, and due to their sensory sensitivities, many face challenges or hesitation when visiting a new destination. In order to attract and support these neurodivergent travelers, we must develop a better understanding of their needs and the barriers that exist for them.

 
 

NEUROINCLUSION IN EVENTS & HOSPITALITY
April 23, 2024

An estimated 20% of the global population—1.5 billion people—is neurodivergent, representing 1 in 5 individuals at events and within teams. The Neu Project is a diverse, global community working together to make the world more welcoming and productive for neurodivergent communities. The project aims to enhance existing practices while championing innovative approaches to inclusion.

 
 

HOTEL COUNCIL OF SAN FRANCISCO

 
 

3.21.22 - Fostering a Culture of Belonging in the Workplace

 

4.6.21 - Understanding Unconscious Bias - Part II

9.9.21 - Building an Inclusive Culture at Work

2.11.21 - Understanding Unconscious Bias - Part I

6.10.21 - Why Diversity & Inclusion Matters and What You Can Do About It

 

11.19.20 - Fostering Workplace Diversity

 
 

U.S. TRAVEL ASSOCIATION

 
 

3.31.21 - Lessons in Race & Racism: AAPI Voices in the Travel Industry

6.26.20 - Lessons in Race & Racism: A Continued Discussion

6.11.20 - Lessons in Race & Racism: Leading by Example

 
 

OTHER WEBINARS

 
 

9.16.20 - Voices Carry: a Conversation on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion by CalTravel

7.16.20 - Five Questions About Race, Answered by Black Tourism Professionals from U.S. DMOs

 
 

RECOMMENDED MATERIALS

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

GET INVOLVED

 
 

Join the DEI&A Committee to help strengthen California’s travel and tourism industry. The group pursues and/or supporting public policy initiatives that promote California’s position as an inclusive, diverse, and welcoming destination; affirms the necessity of understanding equity and inclusion of all identities and intersectionalities; and provides DEI&A education to members.

We encourage you to join us and suggest toolkit content of your own!

 
 
JOIN THE COMMITTEE
SUBMIT TOOLKIT CONTENT
 
 

Mechelle Best
Chair, CalTravel Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Accessibility Committee
Dean, College of Health and Human Development, California State University - Northridge
mechelle.best@csun.edu