EXPLORING OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES FOR LGBTQ+ IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY: A HOTEL PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

This study aims to explore the opportunities and challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the hospitality industry. While progress has been made in promoting inclusivity, there are still significant barriers such as employment discrimination, healthcare access, and a lack of legal protections. Embracing diversity in the workplace can foster innovation and strengthen communities, but it is crucial to address inequality and ensure equal rights for all.  The goal of this research is to closely examine both the positive aspects and the challenges LGBTQ+ individuals experience within hotels and restaurants. By understanding their experiences, we seek to contribute to creating a more welcoming and fair environment for both staff and customers. The data will be collected in Novaliches, Quezon City, with the aim of supporting efforts to make the hospitality industry more inclusive and supportive for everyone. The research design employed in this study is quantitative research. The respondents/participants for this study are hotel employees, with a target sample size of 30 individuals. The sampling technique used is simple random sampling. To collect accurate and relevant data, a survey questionnaire will be utilized as the primary data collection tool. The selected hotels in Quezon City provide a safe and supportive work environment for LGBTQ employees, with a high satisfaction rating of 1.04. The policies and procedures implemented by these hotels effectively prevent discrimination and harassment based on sexual orientation or gender identity, receiving a satisfaction rating of 1.07. Management in these hotels actively promotes a culture of respect and acceptance towards all employees, regardless of sexual orientation, resulting in a satisfactory level of support, rated at 0.99.  Key Findings: LGBTQ-Friendly Policies and Career Impact: Ranked 1st with a weighted mean of 1.04, showing that LGBTQ-friendly policies positively influence career progression and job satisfaction.  Perception of LGBTQ Graduates: Ranked 2nd with a weighted mean of 0.94, indicating that LGBTQ graduates perceive the hospitality industry as welcoming and free from discrimination, with strong support from guests.  Recruitment of LGBTQ Graduates: Ranked 3rd with a weighted mean of 0.99, reflecting active recruitment and inclusion of LGBTQ individuals in hospitality management roles.  Openness About LGBTQ Identity: Ranked 4th with a weighted mean of 0.92, suggesting that while guests are generally positive about LGBTQ individuals being open about their identity in the workplace, this aspect received slightly lower ratings compared to other areas.  Management Addressing Discrimination: Ranked 1st with a weighted mean of 1.04, highlighting strong guest agreement that management at the selected hotels actively addresses incidents of discrimination or bias against LGBTQ employees, making this the highest-rated aspect of fair treatment.  Fair Treatment in Promotions: Ranked 2nd and 3rd with a weighted mean of 0.99, showing that LGBTQ graduates in hospitality management are treated fairly in terms of promotions and career advancement opportunities.  Support Systems for LGBTQ Employees: Ranked 4th with a weighted mean of 0.92, indicating positive feedback on communication and support systems available to LGBTQ employees facing discrimination or harassment, though this aspect received a slightly lower rating than others.  LGBTQ Graduates’ Success: Ranked 1st with a weighted mean of 1.01, showing strong guest agreement that LGBTQ graduates believe their identity will not impact their success in Quezon City's hotel sector.  Equal Employment Opportunities: Ranked 2nd with a weighted mean of 1, indicating that guests strongly agree the hotel industry provides equal opportunities for LGBTQ individuals.  Equal Training and Development: Ranked 3rd with a weighted mean of 1, reflecting equal access to training and development opportunities for LGBTQ employees in hospitality management roles.  Respect and Dignity: Ranked 4th with a weighted mean of 0.96, showing that while LGBTQ graduates are treated with respect and dignity by their colleagues and superiors, this aspect was rated slightly lower compared to other factors. LGBTQ+ Employees in the Hospitality Sector: Experiences, Challenges, and Opportunities  This study examines the experiences, challenges, and opportunities faced by LGBTQ+ employees in the hospitality industry. It emphasizes the importance of fostering inclusive environments, addressing issues like discrimination and harassment, and understanding the distinct needs of LGBTQ+ travelers. The findings suggest that hospitality organizations should prioritize creating supportive, inclusive workspaces where LGBTQ+ employees can succeed, with equal opportunities for career growth and personal development.  Implications for the Industry  The research indicates that the hospitality industry must actively promote inclusivity by implementing policies and practices that address discrimination, harassment, and lack of support for LGBTQ+ employees. Ensuring equal opportunities for career advancement, providing training programs, and creating a respectful work environment are critical to fostering fairness. Organizations that do so can reduce barriers, help LGBTQ+ employees thrive, and enhance workplace equity.  Catering to LGBTQ+ Travelers  In addition to supporting LGBTQ+ employees, hospitality businesses must also recognize and cater to the unique needs of LGBTQ+ travelers. Understanding these guests' preferences and expectations allows hotels and other establishments to offer more personalized and welcoming services. This can be achieved through targeted marketing, LGBTQ+ friendly policies, and employee training to ensure that staff is equipped to meet the diverse needs of LGBTQ+ guests in a respectful and inclusive manner.  Addressing these needs not only builds stronger relationships with LGBTQ+ employees and guests but also boosts customer satisfaction, enhances brand reputation, and improves business performance.