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Working with First Nations and Indigenous Communities
Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) works towards building a tourism industry that honours and reflects the unique cultural traditions of every First Nation or Indigenous community.
Collaborations with First Nations and other Indigenous communities not only enhance tourism experiences for guests by providing respectful access to rich cultural histories and traditions, but they also create opportunities for Indigenous communities to preserve their culture while sharing it with the world.
The First Nations Leadership Council mandates ITBC’s role as the voice of Indigenous tourism in British Columbia. This mandate, formalized under the Indigenous Tourism Accord with the Province of British Columbia, ensures that ITBC leads efforts to grow a respectful and prosperous Indigenous tourism industry. By representing Indigenous interests, ITBC can elevate authentic cultural products that meet and exceed visitor expectations, strengthening the community and the tourism experience. By partnering directly with communities, ITBC helps support local initiatives, access potential employees with cultural expertise, and provide visitors with more immersive and authentic experiences.
Collaboration Agreements with First Nations
Collaboration Agreements between ITBC and First Nations emphasize shared values and goals. These agreements outline the scope and responsibilities of both parties, allowing for a cooperative approach to advancing a competitive and sustainable Indigenous tourism industry. The impact of these agreements is evident in the enhanced cultural understanding, economic prosperity, and long-term sustainability of Indigenous tourism initiatives, which benefit both communities and the broader tourism market.
Experience Development
ITBC supports First Nations and Indigenous tourism businesses and entrepreneurs through tools, funding, and resources that foster growth and resilience. From business planning and digital innovation to visitor experience development, ITBC ensures that Indigenous tourism operators are equipped to adapt to changing markets and recover from disruptions, such as the pandemic. This support directly impacts the ability of Indigenous businesses to thrive and offer visitors high-quality, culturally significant experiences.
Empowering Indigenous Sovereignty and Rights Through Tourism
ITBC advances Indigenous sovereignty by supporting First Nations- and Indigenous-owned businesses and empowering communities to control their cultural narratives and economic futures through tourism. By facilitating self-representation, Indigenous Peoples share their living cultures and raise awareness of treaties and land rights. Partnerships with governments and organizations strengthen Indigenous governance, promoting sustainable economic growth, community development, and public education. Promoting tourism on ancestral lands aligns development with Indigenous stewardship, thereby protecting territories and ensuring the long-term preservation of both cultural and environmental heritage.
Guidance On Developing Tourism and Media Relationships in Indigenous Communities
Recognizing the importance of building respectful relationships, ITBC created a guide to help travel trade operators, media, and influencers work effectively with First Nations and Indigenous communities. This guide provides practical tips, including understanding cultural protocols, navigating the intersection of ancient customs and modern business practices, and prioritizing relationship-building over transactional interactions. By fostering respectful and informed collaborations, this guide helps ensure that tourism and media professionals can share Indigenous stories authentically while maintaining strong ties with the communities they represent.
