Gay Sensitivity Training

Professionals in the tourism industry strive daily to reach new customers, retain those that are loyal, and create work environments that are safe and productive.

The Philadelphia Gay Tourism Caucus, in partnership with Temple University, developed a unique Gay Sensitivity Training Module for the tourism industry professional. Using actors, the Gay Sensitivity Training invites trainee’s to engage in day-to-day experiences such as:

• Front desk check-in at hotels
  

• In-room situation at a hotel
  

• Event attractions
  

• Consumers in a retail setting
  

• Restaurant anniversary party
  

• Enjoying the local nightlife

Over the course of one hour, trainees take part in two skits, with each scene presenting both sides of the equation, both gay and straight. As each skit reaches a heightened point, the moderator will freeze the on-stage action and encourage the audience to ask questions or make comments directly to the actors who stay in character the entire time. The opportunity for trainees to engage in real-time discussions with the characters allows for a unique hands-on experience that captures the emotions of both the homosexual and heterosexual communities.

The Gay Sensitivity Training aims to:

• Examine the emotions of real-life situations that LGBT people face each and everyday.

• See firsthand how service industry professionals can act in ways that are damaging and hurtful not only to human beings, but to the businesses in which they serve.
  

• Identify and build the necessary skills to actively manage diversity of all types in the service industry.
  

• Teach techniques that will enable participants to gain a better understanding of how hurtful biases negatively impact the LGBT consumer.

Upon completion of the gay-sensitivity training, all participants will receive a certificate from the Philadelphia Gay Tourism Caucus and Temple University stating they had participated in the diversity training series.

To setup your Gay Sensitivity Training, contact Michael Sheridan at 215-599-1797, or e-mail him at Michael@gptmc.com