Illinois tourism officials are targeting the $4.8 billion African-American market.
The new campaign is called “The Soul of Illinois.” There are print advertisements and radio spots running in markets with high African-American populations including: Georgia, Florida, Washington, DC, Maryland and Pennsylvania.
Some of the campaigns feature African-American celebrities.
A highlight of the effort is a new Web site providing travel information and direct access to book packages. The campaign positions Chicago as the gateway location for travelers then heading to other Illinois cities.
The state’s attractions include diversity ranging from amusement parks to museums.
The impetus for the campaign is increased African-American travel, which had a 4% boost last year, according to the Travel Industry Association of America.
Report by David Wilkening
