A new global Indigenous Tourism organization has been launched through a partnership between the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association (AIANTA), and New Zealand Māori Tourism.
Destination Original Indigenous Tourism (DO-IT) will be dedicated to the development and marketing of authentic Indigenous tourism destinations globally once it has been created. The goal is to have the world’s Indigenous tourism industry working together to ensure a larger presence and a unified voice in promoting the industry.
A partnership one year in the making and the only organization of its kind, Destination Original Indigenous Tourism aims to unify the collective voice for Indigenous tourism worldwide and the Indigenous people it comprises. With a mission to provide leadership in the development and marketing of authentic Indigenous tourism destinations through innovative partnerships, DO-IT’s vision is to support the establishment of a sustainable international Indigenous tourism network, led by Indigenous destinations and work to support a sustainable, thriving Indigenous tourism economy sharing authentic, memorable, and enriching experiences.
“Destination Original Indigenous Tourism mission aligns with AIANTA’s mission to define, introduce, grow and sustain American Indian, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian tourism that honors traditions and values, so it’s a natural fit for us to join our colleagues in establishment of this vital organization,” said AIANTA CEO Sherry L. Rupert (Paiute/Washoe). “As the leader in Indigenous tourism in the U.S., AIANTA is thrilled to join this global community of Indigenous leaders to amplify our commitment to sharing authentic cultural heritage experiences as a united front.”
Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) president and CEO Keith Henry said, “Destination Original Indigenous Tourism is a solid strategic alignment of three world-leading associations that allows us to uplift the voices of Indigenous-led tourism experiences worldwide while building on the important work that ITAC has supported across Canada to create authentic, sustainable experiences that celebrate First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples. This partnership is the next step in the growth of global Indigenous tourism, creating opportunities for Indigenous communities and entrepreneurs and enhancing the profile of Canada by showcasing the unique stories and histories of Indigenous peoples through tourism.”
