On this day, September 27, TIAO is proud to observe World Tourism Day 2021, a global observance day to foster awareness of tourism’s social, cultural, political, and economic value and the contribution that the tourism industry can make towards reaching the UN Sustainable Development Goals. These Goals include decent work and economic growth, gender equality, reducing inequalities, and eliminating poverty.
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, World Tourism Day 2021 has been designated by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) as a day to focus on “Tourism for Inclusive Growth.” The COVID-19 pandemic has produced unprecedented economic and social impacts in Ontario, Canada, and globally, with vulnerable and marginalized populations disproportionately affected. Our economic recovery must therefore be a recovery for everyone, leaving no groups behind.
Tourism is a driver of inclusive economic growth and recovery. In Canada, tourism was responsible for 1.8 million jobs, with almost 500,000 of them in Ontario. Prior to COVID-19, Ontario’s tourism industry was a $36 billion industry, providing good jobs, opportunities for skills and career development, and contributing to community infrastructure through $5 billion in annual tax revenues. As tourism businesses restart, rebuild, and recover across Ontario and across Canada, so too will our communities. TIAO will continue to work for the recovery of almost 200,000 tourism businesses in the province to support inclusive growth across Ontario.