The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) has issued a statement in response to recent remarks made by Palm Bay City Councilman Chandler Langevin regarding Indian Americans in the state. Carol Dover, President & CEO of FRLA, addressed the issue by emphasizing the importance of Indian American hoteliers within Florida’s hospitality sector.
“Recent comments targeting Indian Americans do not reflect the values of our industry or our state. Indian American hoteliers are not only part of Florida’s hospitality story – they are vital to its success, owning and operating nearly 65% of all Florida hotels. Their investment, hard work, and leadership support nearly 460,000 jobs and strengthen communities across our state. We stand united in celebrating their contributions and in rejecting division. Florida’s future is built on respect, opportunity, and shared prosperity,” said Dover.
The FRLA represents more than 10,000 members from various segments of the hospitality industry across Florida. The association was established in 1946 as the Florida Restaurant Association before merging with the Florida Hotel and Motel Association in 2006. Its mission is to advocate for and promote the interests of Florida’s $112 billion hospitality industry, which employs close to two million people statewide.
In addition to legislative advocacy for its members, FRLA provides regulatory compliance guidance and food safety training through Safe Staff and its subsidiary RCS Training. The organization also supports career-building programs for high school students through its Educational Foundation.
