January 20, 2020, Lekwungwen Territories (Victoria, BC) – Back by popular demand, the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada’s (ITAC) President & CEO Keith Henry is co-chairing the third annual IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism conference in Victoria, BC, with the ITAC board attending the soldout event.  

The IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism Conference was created with the goal of aligning the Canadian tourism industry, as well as stakeholders and communities touched by tourism, with a vision to achieve economic, social, and environmental sustainability. IMPACT focuses on innovative practices that enhance the sustainable legacy of the tourism and travel industry in Canada. Strong Indigenous and new Canadian voices at the conference are critical components of the discussion. 

“I am honoured to share the stage with my co-chair Marion Joppe,” says Henry. “Participating in IMPACT is a highlight of the year for me.  It allows us to have candid conversations about the issues we are facing within our industry, including cultural issues which may be eroding ITAC’s goal of ensuring Indigenous tourism experiences are authentic and are benefiting Indigenous communities.”   

ITAC board members and team members are participating in sessions throughout the conference including, Canada: The State of the Industry; Food Tourism for Sustainable Development; The Language We Use; and hosting a plenary session Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada – Managing Demand & Growth. 

Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada 

The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) is the lead organization tasked with growing the Indigenous tourism industry across the country.  Inspired by a vision for a thriving Indigenous tourism economy sharing authentic, memorable and enriching experiences, ITAC develops relationships with other groups and regions with similar mandates. By uniting the Indigenous tourism industry in Canada, ITAC works to enable collective support, product development, promotion and marketing of authentic Indigenous cultural tourism businesses in a respectful protocol.  With Indigenous tourism outpacing Canadian tourism activity overall, and international demand for Indigenous experiences at an all-time high, ITAC recently updated its  five-year plan. Additionally, ITAC just launched their Nations Magazine, highlighting Indigenous people and experiences across the country. To book packages and experiences travellers may visit www.IndigenousCanada.travel. 

For more information on ITAC visit www.IndigenousTourism.ca 

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Media Contacts:
Deirdre Campbell, Beattie Tartan
250-592-3838, 250-882-9199
Deirdre.Campbell@BeattieGroup.com

Keith Henry, Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada
604-639-4408, 778-388-5013
Keith@IndigenousTourism.ca

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