Visit Lauderdale, the official destination marketing organization for Greater Fort Lauderdale, has announced that it will host the Deaf Seniors of America (DSA) 17th Biennial National Conference. The conference is scheduled to take place at the Seminole Hard Rock Casino & Hotel in Hollywood from June 25 to 29, 2023.
Visit Lauderdale, known for its commitment to inclusion and accessibility, has been working diligently to provide quality experiences for visitors of all abilities in its 31 vibrant communities.
“We welcome everyone and put great value on inclusiveness, so aligning with Visit Lauderdale was a natural choice. Every other year we host our conference in a new region, providing members with opportunities to explore and grow, as we strive to provide an optimal, interactive environment where full access is given for all.”
–Phil Aiello, chair of the Deaf Seniors of America 2023 Conference
Richard Gray
The decision to host the DSA 2023 Conference in Greater Fort Lauderdale was driven by the destination’s efforts to remove barriers and make trip planning easier for people with visible and invisible disabilities. Richard Gray, Visit Lauderdale’s senior vice president of Inclusion & Accessibility, expressed excitement about welcoming the hundreds of attendees and ensuring a memorable and immersive experience for all.
“Everyone deserves to be seen and our hope is that by removing accessibility barriers, such as with our specialized site, which offers a list of hotels, attractions, theaters, beaches and transportation providers, even more people will visit Greater Fort Lauderdale and explore our culturally rich and diverse community,” said Gray.
With over 1,000 deaf and hard of hearing seniors from the United States and beyond registered for the conference, the event will offer a diverse range of educational workshops, presentations, and activities conducted in American Sign Language. Attendees will have access to exhibits featuring more than 50 corporations, nonprofit organizations, and deaf-owned businesses. The conference schedule includes comedy shows, luncheons, reunions, and a LGBT+ social event, alongside DSA business sessions to shape future plans and strategies.
Visit Lauderdale’s dedication to inclusivity is evident in its partnership with Travelability, an organization focused on improving travel experiences for people with disabilities. The destination’s commitment is further reinforced by its Platinum Charter and Destination A11Y Club membership. By removing accessibility barriers and providing comprehensive information on accessible hotels, attractions, theaters, beaches, and transportation providers, Visit Lauderdale aims to encourage more people to visit and explore the culturally rich and diverse community of Greater Fort Lauderdale.
Accommodations for conference attendees have been arranged at the Renaissance Fort Lauderdale West Hotel in Plantation for those arriving early, while primary conference participants will stay at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood.
About Greater Fort Lauderdale
With 24 miles of golden sand beaches and 300+ miles of navigable waterways, Greater Fort Lauderdale is known as the Venice of America and Yachting Capital of the World. The area boasts an average year-round temperature of 77˚F, has 3,000+ hours of annual sunshine, and is home to 31 unique municipalities, including eight distinct beach communities, each offering something for “everyone under the sun.” Residents hailing from 170 countries, speaking 147 languages call this diverse destination home. And there’s good reason, including the area’s unwavering commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Upon arrival at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), a five-minute drive will get you to the beach, Port Everglades, the newly expanded Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center, and a bustling downtown. Experience 4,000+ eateries, a thriving arts and culture scene, craft breweries, stunning rooftop bars, fishing, diving, and the unmatched beauty of the Florida Everglades. From world-class shopping, to boating, yachts and superyachts all moored at the area’s many marinas, it’s no wonder Greater Fort Lauderdale is one of the most desirable places to stay, work and play. The destination has more than 38,000 unique lodging accommodations at a variety of hotels, luxury spa resorts, and beautifully appointed, boutique properties, all reflecting the area’s cosmopolitan vibe. Find inspiration for your next trip at visitlauderdale.com and follow @VisitLauderdale on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.
About Visit Lauderdale Visit Lauderdale is the official destination marketing organization for Greater Fort Lauderdale and serves as the tourism department for Broward County, Florida. Visit Lauderdale promotes the area’s 31 municipalities to a global audience of leisure and business travelers as the ideal place for Everyone Under the Sun in recognition of the area’s diverse and welcoming vibe, and books conventions into the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center, area hotels and resorts. Find more information at visitlauderdale.com and follow @VisitLauderdale on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.
