Downtown Indy part of new campaign ahead of Final Four

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – As the world sets its eyes on Indianapolis for the Final Four, business groups are looking to shed any perception that the Circle City is unwelcoming.

They say the negative press from the Religious Freedom Restoration Act may turn people away, but they want the 75,000 visitors who are on their way to know they are welcome here.

Its a concern they’ve had from the beginning.

“Boy, is this going to affect business, and how do we counteract that,” said Brian Statz of The Children’s Museum when learning of the law. “How can we let people know that despite what others think, everyone is welcome here?”

Restaurants are also looking to prove Hoosier Hospitality isn’t a thing of the past.

“It doesn’t change the way we do business, it doesn’t change the way most people do business,” said Craig Huse of St. Elmo’s Steak House .

To help them out, Downtown Indy is joining a new marketing campaign: Indy Welcomes All

“I think the Indy hospitality family is some of the most professional, giving, caring and above all welcoming people there are anywhere,” said Huse.

“We recognize that we have a diverse community. Not only in Indianapolis but visitors and we just want everybody to know they’re welcome and we want them to feel comfortable here,” said Statz.

Visit Indy says the Final Four is expected to generate over $70 million in economic activity