Destinations International (DI) has announced a new partnership with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) to bolster Indigenous tourism initiatives. The collaboration seeks to enhance understanding and appreciation of Indigenous tourism through educational efforts while promoting The Original Original mark of excellence (which lets consumers know they are supporting Indigenous-owned businesses).
This partnership signifies a milestone in our journey towards fostering a more inclusive and diverse tourism industry.
Both DI and ITAC view this alliance as a significant step toward empowering destinations to authentically engage with Indigenous tourism businesses. By doing so, they aim to benefit visitors and Indigenous communities alike.
"Through our partnership with Destinations International, we aim to foster a deeper understanding of Indigenous tourism and its cultural significance within the global travel industry,” said Keith Henry, president and CEO of ITAC. “Through education and raising awareness of The Original Original mark of excellence, we empower destinations to authentically engage with Indigenous tourism business owners, thereby enriching the travel experience for visitors while promoting economic opportunities for Indigenous Peoples. Further, Destinations International’s strategic priorities for destination organizations in 2024 align with ITAC’s vision to help make Canada become the global leader in Indigenous tourism by 2030."
Reflecting on the successful 2024 International Indigenous Tourism Conference, Sophia Hyder Hock, chief inclusion officer at DI, highlighted the association's commitment to amplifying Indigenous voices in tourism.
"Our partnership with ITAC aligns perfectly with these efforts, further enabling us to support our members in making meaningful contributions to cultural preservation and understanding," she said.
The collaboration will also include a joint research project with destination organizations to identify best practices in Indigenous tourism. This initiative sets a precedent for global engagement with and support of Indigenous-led tourism endeavors.
"This partnership signifies a milestone in our journey toward fostering a more inclusive and diverse tourism industry,” said Don Welsh, president and CEO of Destinations International. “By prioritizing Indigenous-led storytelling and education on The Original Original mark, we underscore our commitment to responsible and respectful destination management."
Editor’s Note: This article was generated by AI, based on a press release distributed by Destinations International.
