Bermuda Marriage Equality Update

Bermuda is delaying the repeal of marriage equality for three months until the end of May 2018 because of its lucrative tourism industry according to Walton Brown, Bermuda’s Minister of Home Affairs stating, “Commencement has been delayed to allow for any same-sex marriages that have licenses already issued & have been scheduled to be conducted in Bermuda, or on-board Bermuda-registered ships, to actually take place.” Sarah Kate Ellis, President and CEO of GLAAD stated, “The repeal of marriage equality in Bermuda is a demeaning & unnecessary strike against loving & committed LGBTQ couples in Bermuda as well as others around the world who would consider vacationing there. This small walk-back by the Bermudian government to accommodate previously-planned weddings shows that pressure from the tourism industry could have tremendous power if they collectively speak out for marriage equality.” It is now imperative for international businesses that play major roles in Bermuda’s economy, such as cruise lines & the travel industry, to make their voices heard. Several cruise lines that bring tourists to Bermuda not only contribute largely to Bermuda’s tourism industry & economy, but they have long histories of standing with & marketing to LGBTQ people. These brands & their business leaders should demonstrate true leadership & stand for those customers they’ve courted by helping to combat this harmful decision. Corporations & business leaders can have a powerful impact when they stand firm & denounce attacks on LGBTQ equality which was seen first-hand with the fight against anti-trans laws in both Texas & North Carolina. Bermuda should take a lesson from Greater Fort Lauderdale, FLA where since 1995 have brought 1.5 million LGBTQ travelers to Fort Lauderdale every year boosting their local economy to the tune of 1.5 billion dollars.
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