First Nations Leadership Council Approves the Development of the BC First Nations-Led Tourism Destination Fund

The First Nations Leadership Council (FNLC) has approved and directed Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) to lead the development of a BC First Nations-led Tourism Destination Fund, a community-led and managed fund unanimously supported by the Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs (UBCIC), the First Nations Summit Chiefs (FNS), and the BC Assembly of First Nations (BC AFN).

The following resolutions passed demonstrate a united commitment to further advance self-determination, self-governance, and sovereignty.

• June 11, 2024: First Nations Summit Resolution #0624.10
• June 27, 2024: Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs Resolution No. 2024-27
• October 10, 2024: BC Assembly of First Nations Resolution 30/2024

ITBC is dedicated to engaging in the necessary protocols and procedures, including thorough consultations with First Nations, to establish a fund that prioritizes a distinctions-based approach in alignment with the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (Declaration Act). ITBC is working to develop a draft program framework in the upcoming months.

These efforts will ensure the fund is led and managed by local communities and remains within each community. The BC First Nations-Led Tourism Destination Fund will significantly contribute to the economic growth, cultural preservation, and success of Indigenous communities across the province.

Any questions in regards BC First Nations-Led Tourism Destination Fund please contact Reena Parmar at [email protected].

See the official announcement here.