Despite the passage of Indiana's potentially discriminatory Religious Freedom Restoration Act ( RFRA ), the historic and luxurious French Lick Resort continues to extend a warm welcome to its LGBT guests.
"We, as a company, have always been inclusive," said Joseph Vezzoso Jr., vice president of resort operations. "We want everyone to feel welcome, regardless of gender, race, age, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, disability or class."
The legislation, signed into law by Gov. Mike Pence on March 26, is largely viewed as a legal means for individuals and corporations to refuse to serve gays and lesbians because of religious reasons. Although Pence insisted such was not the intent, the national backlash was loud and severe. Chief executive officers, religious leaders, sports professionals, entertainers and others threatened to boycott the state or halt their expansion plans.
A revised measure, signed April 2, clarifies the law does not allow businesses to deny goods or services to LGBT customers. But just how much damage has been done—and whether it can be undone—remains to be seen.
"I don't think the governor knew what the costs were going to be from a hospitality standpoint and corporate standpoint," said Vezzoso.
After receiving numerous inquiries of concern following the legislation's passage, French Lick issued a response of Hoosier Hospitality on its website:
In part, it reads, "French Lick Resort, a Travel Advocacy Group—Approved facility, respects the privacy, values and rights of all our guests and employees. This new legislation won't change the way we do business or work with our employees. We've always been open and inclusive and RFRA won't change that. Our views are engrained in our culture and are not affected by legislation."
French Lick Resort is a much-lauded destination, with AAA Four-Diamond accommodations in south-central Indiana and abutting the Hoosier National Forest. The property, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, includes two hotels—the 443-room French Lick Springs Hotel and the 243-room West Baden Springs Hotel. They were built on the cusp of the 20th century and meticulously restored to their original Old World grandeur in 2005. Both feature extraordinary architectural details, most notably the six-story atrium dome at West Baden. Among the myriad amenities are elegant and casual dining, casino, two pro-designed golf courses, two spas and a horse stable.
The Preferred Pride Package, available through 2015, includes an overnight stay at either hotel and a complimentary bottle of the house sparkling wine upon check-in. Additional nights are 20-percent off the best available rate. For more information, visit www.frenchlick.com or call 888-936-9360.
