Hawaii Eyes Gay Tourism for Civil Unions Ceremonies

Virginia claims to be for lovers, but the tourism slogan is an out right lie because only straight, preferably ultra-conservative lovers are truly welcome. For all others, the "Closed" sign might as well be posted on all tourism portals for anyone not fitting the "family" mold favored by GOP's Christo-fascist puppeteers at The Family Foundation. The cretins in the GOP controlled House of Delegates just don't get it that bigotry and backwardness are not things that will attract upscale tourists. So while the House has voted to keep LGBT Virginians worse than third class citizens - and gained much negative publicity for Virginia in the process - it has voted to throw funds at stalled tourism projects in places like the quasi-police state Virginia Beach oceanfront which over all caters to a non-affluent, working class and blue collar low budget travel market segment. Hawaii in contrast gets the real message and is gearing up for marketing to the LGBT tourist who will soon be able to have a civil union ceremony while visiting that state. An article in the Virginian Pilot looks at how progressive Hawaii looks to cash in on the enhanced equality soon to be granted to LGBT individuals. Here are some highlights:
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HONOLULU (AP) -- For years, the Rev. Fay Hovey has held romantic ceremonies on the sand for gay partners who want to pledge their love in Hawaii. The couples take photos and memories with them, but they lack a legal and binding recognition of their relationship. That will change when same-sex civil unions soon become law in the Rainbow State.
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The culturally diverse islands - with their swaying palm trees, picturesque sunsets and wind-swept sands - are already a welcoming place for gay tourists, including some who seek informal partnership ceremonies.
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With civil unions, those ceremonies would come with a certificate that's valid in other states with civil unions or same-sex marriage, depending on their local laws. Five states and the District of Columbia permit same-sex marriage.
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Hawaii, known as one of the nation's premier locations for destination weddings and honeymoons, also will allow gay couples to get civil unions even if they don't come from states with compatible laws. This could provide a boost to the tourism-dependent islands that are trying to recover from the recession
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"It will certainly drive more tourism and bring more people to us," said Michael Waddell, general manager for the Maui Sunseeker, a resort catering to gay clientele. "They come here because they can be comfortable and they can be themselves." The Maui Sunseeker is expanding from 17 to 30 rooms by the end of the year, which will help it accommodate new visitors, he said.
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"We don't discriminate. We're known for having tolerance and mutual respect for all," said Mike McCartney, president for the Hawaii Tourism Authority. "Our natural beauty, people and spirit create and environment for romance."
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In contrast, Virginia openly discriminates against gays and, depending what part of the state one is in, many other segments of society. The lesson to be learned? Spend your hard earned money in states that grant equalit to all and take the time to let your own state know why you're taking your dollars elsewhere.