Your Voice Matters: Advocate for Indigenous Tourism in the April 28th Election

Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), Vancouver, BC – The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) knows that Indigenous tourism has yet to reach its full potential. With the right investments, Indigenous tourism can significantly strengthen reconciliation and local economies, create jobs, and generate meaningful growth for Indigenous entrepreneurs and all Canadians by 2030.

As the federal election on Monday, April 28, 2025, approaches, ITAC encourages all ITAC members to engage with the candidates in their ridings. Ask them about their commitment to supporting Indigenous tourism. Your voice is essential in ensuring that Indigenous tourism remains a priority for the next government.

“Indigenous tourism is at a critical crossroads, and the upcoming federal election is a chance to demand real action. Since the announcement of the Federal Tourism Growth Strategy, we have seen a troubling lack of ongoing and consistent investment in Indigenous tourism—despite identifying Indigenous tourism as a key pillar of that strategy and our sector’s undeniable economic and cultural impact,” says Keith Henry, President and CEO of the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada. “Without sustained government support, Indigenous businesses and communities will struggle to rebuild and grow. This election is about more than politics; it’s about securing the future of Indigenous tourism and ensuring our voices are heard and acted upon. Now is the time to vote for leadership that truly supports Indigenous tourism and economic reconciliation.”

To help inform your discussions, ITAC invites you to explore our sample letter, one-pager on why Indigenous tourism urgently requires strategic investments, ITAC’s 2030 Vision, the Federal Tourism Growth Strategy, and the Indigenous Tourism Destination Fund. Find who’s running in your district by entering your postal code on Elections Canada’s website or check party websites for their local nominees.

Let’s make sure Indigenous tourism remains a national priority and that the commitments in the Federal Tourism Growth Strategy lead to real, meaningful action.