Welcome Everyone: A Public Policy Proposal Against Aporophobia in Tourism

Abstract

The main objective of the study is to analyze the aporophobia experienced by low-income tourists in the Port of Mazatlán and, based on the findings, to propose a public policy at both local and national levels to combat this issue and promote inclusion in tourism. An exploratory study was conducted focusing on the tourism service providers in Mazatlán during the Easter and summer vacation periods of 2023. Various key concepts such as aporophobia, poverty, stigma, and exclusion were analyzed, and theories like habitus and instituting social imaginary were applied to understand the underlying dynamics of this discrimination. The study identifies the existence of stereotypes and negative attitudes towards low-income tourists, manifested in derogatory terms such as "sandwich tourist." The importance of implementing an inclusive and equitable public policy in tourism is highlighted, one that combats aporophobia and guarantees equal access to services and opportunities for all visitors, regardless of their economic status.