Indiana tries to reverse the damage

INDIANA is furiously trying to woo people back to its state following a damaging week after its ‘religious freedom’ law put many offside.

FILE - In this March 25, 2015 file photo, a window sticker promising service to all is displayed in opposition to the state new religious objections law in downtown Indianapolis. Tourism agencies in Indianapolis and Fort Wayne are rolling out campaigns to tout the fact that “All Are Welcome” in Indiana, but it might not be enough to completely heal the black eye the state received over its nationally-criticized religious objections law. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy, File)

INDIANA tourism agencies are rolling out campaigns emphasising that everyone is welcome, but they may not be enough to quickly restore the state’s battered image after a backlash over its religious objections law.

Fears that the law would allow discrimination against gays and lesbians led convention organisers and performers to cancel events and some state and local governments to ban travel to the state last week.

Business leaders say public relations campaigns may not be enough to immediately restore the state’s damaged reputation.

Gov. Mike Pence approved changes to the law to make clear it can’t be used to discriminate, although some economic impact has already been felt.

The convention and tourism industry has been the hardest hit with at least two conventions cancelled in Indianapolis.