When Visit Lauderdale told the world that Broward County welcomed Everyone Under the Sun, Richard Gray meant everyone. As the Sr. VP of Inclusion & Accessibility for Broward County’s tourism arm, he works to make sure that Everyone includes everyone.

Now his work is being honored by TravAbility Insider as one of their 24 Accessibility Champions to Watch. While the 2022 launch of the Everyone campaign showcased Greater Fort Lauderdale’s inclusivity, it goes back much further.

“Accessible tourism is the new platform that is beginning to be addressed globally by destinations around the world and is of the utmost importance to Visit Lauderdale as it promotes inclusion, diversity, and equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities,” said Gray.

Over the past 30 years, new buildings have been more accommodating under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act). Yes, there are more wheelchair ramps and braille by elevator buttons. But Gray says those are, literally, just the tip of the iceberg.

“Accessible tourism can be compared to an iceberg. Ninety percent of an iceberg is under the water and not visible. When we think of accessibility, we tend to think of a deaf or blind person, a person in a wheelchair, maybe a child that is part of the Autism spectrum. But there are many disabilities, both invisible and visible.”

A subtle symbol of support is the sunflower. It’s becoming a global symbol for people with visible and non-visible disabilities.

“It is a simple tool for you to voluntarily share that you have a disability or condition that may not be immediately apparent, and that you may need a helping hand, understanding or more time in shops, at work, on transport or in a public space.”

Looking ahead to 2024, Gray says Visit Lauderdale will build out existing partnerships.

“We have forged great working relationships with Wheel the World and AccessNOW. They are currently mapping out Greater Fort Lauderdale for the disabled traveler.”