All Are Welcome at AZA
AZA meetings and official events are designed to create an inclusive environment, welcoming and respectful to all attendees, inclusive of age, race, religion, nationality, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or spiritual or political belief. All are welcome – to join, learn, share, network, and help create a stronger AZA community. Your attendance is vital to advancing AZA’s Mission: helping its members and the animals in their care thrive by providing services advancing animal welfare, public engagement, and the conservation of wildlife.
All meeting and event participants must agree to, and abide by, the AZA Code of Conduct, which outlines AZA’s policy on harassment, safety, and reporting unacceptable behavior.In addition, while recognizing that we do not control any areas or behaviors beyond official conference meeting spaces and events, AZA will share resources provided by host members and local visitor bureaus to help attendees in selecting opportunities to safely explore and experience surrounding communities. Bookmark this page as we continue to add resources for those planning to attend.
All Are Welcome in Tampa Bay
Join us September 13-18, 2025, and discover the beauty of Tampa Bay, home to three AZA-accredited member facilities: The Florida Aquarium, Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.This dynamic destination has a rich history, dating back several thousand years to the time of the Weeden Island culture, which relied on the sea. Through exploration, Tampa and the Tampa Bay area was established, and in the late 1800’s, a mix of Cuban, Italian and Spanish immigrants began arriving. The term "Tampeños", or "Tampeñas”, has become synonymous with all residents of Tampa regardless of their background, ethnicity, race, religion, sexual orientation or beliefs.
Learn more about the welcoming city of Tampa through their Guide to Social Inclusion.
Today, Tampa prides itself as one of the most diverse and friendliest cities in the world, welcoming millions of tourists and attracting new residents every day from around the country and the world. Once known as the Cigar Capital of the world, there’s much to see and do across Tampa’s many diverse neighborhoods. From historic Ybor City with its cobblestone streets and free-range chickens, to strolling the world-renowned Riverwalk, and from chilling in the intimate Hyde Park Village to catching a sporting event that makes us Champa Bay, all will feel welcomed. Of course, if you have more time, check out the pristine white sand beaches along the ocean.
Come experience the Tampa that we all know, love and call our home – a city that celebrates the diversity of our people, our rich heritage, our animals, and the natural world both above and below the surface.
