Baltimore, MD (July 8, 2019) —Today, NAACP, the nation’s foremost civil rights organization, released its 2019 Opportunity and Diversity Report Card: Hotel and Resort Industry, which calls attention to the racial inclusion and diversity practices of the lodging industry as they pertain to the workforce, governing body, property ownership/management, employee transition, and suppliers.

The report, compiled from EEOC data and the responses to a survey instrument developed by the NAACP, assesses the performance of the four largest U.S. companies in the industry – Hilton, Hyatt, Marriott, Wyndham – recognizing that they possess the most potential to influence industry trends, policies, and practices. The report also provides information to the public on career opportunities and realities in the hotel and resort industry. Comparing the performance of the 2019 report card to that of 2012, NAACP notes where improvements have been made and challenges persist.

“As the hotel and lodging industry continues to build a strong base within urban communities, we recognize the overwhelming need for residents of color to have a seat at the table in any and all decision making,” said Derrick Johnson, president and CEO, NAACP. “Decisions made in regards to location, personnel, and supplier diversity will have a substantial impact on the longevity and continued inclusiveness of urban areas.”

Furthering the commitment to inclusion, the NAACP will convene a CEO roundtable at the 110th Convention in Detroit (July 20 – 24, 2019). The roundtable will explore the business case for corporate diversity efforts in the context of market opportunities, corporate culture and investor sentiments. In the fall, the conversation will continue with the convening of diversity and inclusion officers from Fortune 500 companies to promote action around employment, workforce education and advancement, procurement and supplier diversity.

“The NAACP is committed to improving the outlook of the lodging industry and holding accountable its leaders to ensure diversity and inclusion becomes a mainstay,” said Dawn Chase, director of Diversity and Inclusion. “Our efforts at the NAACP not only to bring attention to the benefits of diversity and inclusion but to work collaboratively with industry partners to create real change across the board, from the top down.”

For a copy of the full report, click here.

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Founded in 1909, the NAACP is the nation’s oldest and largest nonpartisan civil rights organization. Its members throughout the United States and the world are the premier advocates for civil rights in their communities. You can read more about the NAACP’s work and our six “Game Changer” issue areas here.