Both organizations have pledged to work together to support the development and promotion of tourism experiences that will further the understanding and appreciation of Indigenous Peoples and their cultures among travellers.
TSUUT’INA NATION AND TREATY 7 TERRITORY (Calgary, AB) – Parks Canada and the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) have agreed to renew their partnering arrangement through a signed memorandum of understanding (MOU) for 2022-2025.
This ongoing partnership demonstrates the commitment of ITAC and Parks Canada to collaborate with Indigenous Peoples across Canada and advance the development of experiences that foster reconciliation through appreciation, learning and enjoyment. ITAC and Parks Canada will continue to work together to develop, support and market authentic Indigenous tourism experiences sharing deep connections with traditional territories in and around places administered by Parks Canada. This partnership will support the recovery of the Indigenous tourism industry following the COVID-19 pandemic and also forms an important part of Parks Canada’s work to develop an Indigenous Stewardship Framework.
“Parks Canada has been a long-term partner committed to recognizing and honouring the historic and contemporary contributions of Indigenous Peoples histories and cultures, as well as the special relationships and connections Indigenous Peoples have with their ancestral lands and water,” said Keith Henry, President & CEO of the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada. “Parks Canada understands the importance of tourism in reconciliation, and we’re excited to offer more opportunities for Indigenous communities, businesses and entrepreneurs to better grow and thrive across national parks.”
“Parks Canada recognizes that working in partnership with Indigenous Peoples is critical to the protection of national historic sites, national parks, and national marine conservation areas and the sharing of the stories of these treasured places. The Agency is committed to collaborating with organizations, such as the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, to ensure that Indigenous Peoples have opportunities to share their perspectives, cultures and traditions with Canadians and the world,” said Ron Hallman, President & Chief Executive Officer, Parks Canada. “We are proud of the relationship that we’ve developed with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada over the past six years and look forward to continuing to collaborate with them to advance Indigenous tourism in Canada.”
For more information, visit IndigenousTourism.ca and/or pc.gc.ca.