July 2002 - The NAACP Economic Reciprocity Initiative (ERI) was launched in 1996 as a sustained consumer movement measuring corporate America�s commitment to the African-American citizenry and other people of color.

ERI targeted companies are surveyed for their activity in employment, vendor development and contracting, advertising and marketing, equity investment and ownership, and philanthropy.

Lodging Industry Report Card 

The lodging industry was initially reported on in 1997. This two-year comparison report card is the fifth to be issued on the hotel chains. Over the course of the lodging industry review, progress has been made with board appointments, employment advancement, increased contracting opportunity and advertising relationships. Diversity councils have been formed and franchise recruitment programs have been developed.  However, overall sustained progress has been slow in pace. 

Collectively, the industry received a grade of 2.7 in both 2001 and 2002.

Since the beginning of this initiative, the NAACP has seen a greater responsiveness from the industry and has been pleased to witness the installation of various diversity officers to implement and direct project goals. However, progress in certain categories remains stagnant. As was widely reported, the travel industry as a whole suffered significant losses in the aftermath of September 11th which affected results particularly in the areas of advertising/marketing, vendor relationships and charitable giving. 

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Consumer Alert 

While the NAACP intends to keep monitoring the hotels for progress and advancement, consumers are encouraged to utilize this guide in making informed choices about where to spend and invest their dollars.