For two decades, John Tanzella helped make the world a more welcoming place for LGBTQ+ travelers. As president and CEO of the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association, Tanzella helped grow the organization into a global network spanning roughly 80 countries, connecting LGBTQ+-friendly businesses and travelers while advocating for safer, more inclusive tourism.
Travel had always been part of Tanzella’s life. Raised in a family that worked in the airline industry, he later worked for Destination DC and the Human Rights Campaign before taking the helm of IGLTA in 2005. Under his leadership, the organization expanded its international reach. In 2012, he helped establish the IGLTA Foundation to support LGBTQ+ tourism through research, education, and opportunities for future leaders.
Tanzella died June 7 after an extended illness.
“John’s superpower was making everyone he met feel seen and valued,” says Anthony Warner, interim CEO of IGLTA. “LGBTQ+ tourism has lost its kindest, most committed champion, but his legacy will live on through the association and the philanthropic IGLTA Foundation, which was his proudest achievement.”
The John Tanzella Fellowship Fund, created in his honor, provides fellowships to LGBTQ+ travel and tourism entrepreneurs through the foundation.
