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Working with Indigenous Communities
Working closely with Indigenous communities is essential for building a tourism industry that honours and reflects the unique cultural traditions of each community. These collaborations not only strengthen tourism experiences for guests by enabling respectful access to rich cultural histories and traditions, but they also create pathways 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 B.C., 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 communities 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 seen in the strengthened cultural understanding, economic prosperity, and long-term sustainability of Indigenous tourism initiatives that benefit both communities and the broader tourism market.
Experience Development
ITBC supports 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 like the pandemic. This support directly impacts Indigenous businesses’ ability to thrive and offer visitors high-quality, culturally significant experiences.
Empowering Indigenous Sovereignty and Rights Through Tourism
ITBC advances Indigenous sovereignty by supporting 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 bolster Indigenous governance, fostering sustainable economic growth, community identity, and public education. Promoting tourism on ancestral lands aligns development with Indigenous stewardship, protecting territories and ensuring long-term cultural and environmental preservation.
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 Indigenous communities. This guide offers practical tips, such as understanding cultural protocols, navigating ancient customs alongside 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.
