International Destinations (DI) announced a new partnership with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) to support indigenous tourism initiatives. The collaboration aims to improve 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 marks an important step in our journey towards promoting a more inclusive and diverse tourism industry.
DI and ITAC see this alliance as an important step in enabling destinations to authentically engage with Indigenous tourism businesses. In doing so, they aim to benefit both visitors and indigenous communities.
“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 the ITAC. “Through education and awareness of The Original Original brand of excellence, we enable destinations to authentically engage with Indigenous tourism business owners, enriching the visitor travel experience while promoting economic opportunities for indigenous peoples. Additionally, Destinations International's strategic priorities for destination organizations in 2024 align with ATAC's vision to help make Canada the global leader in Indigenous tourism by 2030.”
RELATED: New global indigenous tourism association launched
Reflecting on the success of the 2024 International Indigenous Tourism Conference, Sophia Hyder Jarrethead of inclusion 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 help our members make meaningful contributions to the preservation and understanding of culture,” 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 and support for Indigenous-led tourism efforts.
“This partnership marks an important step in our journey toward promoting a more inclusive and diverse tourism industry,” said Don Welsh, President and CEO of Destinations International. “By prioritizing Indigenous-led storytelling and education under The Original Original brand, we are underscoring 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.
