A Program With Purpose
WARM WELCOME
WE EMBRACE EVERYONE
Launched in 2021 , the Warm Welcome program was born out of research that shows more and more diverse travelers are seeking destinations where they feel seen , respected and welcome . We know that Baltimore is a city that embraces everyone , and this program ensures that all travelers and community members will know it as well .
Warm Welcome is ...
• An active commitment to fostering a welcoming destination for ALL travelers
• A source of training and resources to help our industry get better every day
• An opportunity to position Baltimore as a pioneer in DEI , offering positive travel experiences for everyone
In FY22 , 65 organizations including hotels , restaurants , small businesses , museums , attractions and more signed the Warm Welcome pledge — and the number continues to grow . Training tools released in support of the program so far include :
• A video training on race , bias and allyship by DEI expert Dr . Kaye Whitehead , founding director of The Karson Institute for Race , Peace & Social Justice on the campus of Loyola University
• A disability inclusion and etiquette guide with information provided by accessibility expert Melanie Hood-Wilson
• A video conversation on better understanding the LGBTQ +/ Same-Gender-Loving community with Tramour Wilson and Amber Vanhorn-Bailey , from the Pride Center of Maryland ( PCOM )
• A quarterly newsletter with additional DEI resources , including tips and advice from industry experts
A full list of participants can be found at Baltimore . org / WarmWelcome .
“ If you want customers / visitors , why wouldn ’ t you sign the pledge ? It simply demonstrates [ our ] commitment to ensuring visitors have a great experience in Baltimore .”
TERRI LEE FREEMAN , EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR , REGINALD F . LEWIS MUSEUM
32 VISIT BALTIMORE