The Rupert Report

From the Desk of AIANTA's CEO | May 25, 2023

Thank you to our Tribal Partners that participated on Tribal Row at

U.S. Travel’s 2023 IPW this week. 

AIANTA Highlights for the Coming Week

Submit Your Nominations For

The Excellence in Tourism Industry Awards

Every year, during its annual American Indian Tourism Conference, AIANTA recognizes enterprises and individuals in four categories, Destination of the Year, Best Cultural Heritage Experience, Excellence in Customer Service and Industry Professional of the Year, who showcase the best of Indian Country travel and cultural tourism. Anyone in the tourism/hospitality industry may make a nomination. The nominee must be an AIANTA member in good standing to be considered for an award. If the nominee is a non-member, the nominating organization may sponsor the membership of the nominee.

AIANTA Is Hiring For A Tribal Content Developer

The American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association (AIANTA) is seeking an energetic, responsible and highly-motivated individual to serve as Tribal Content Developer. The Tribal Content Developer is responsible for creating written and visual content with a consistent voice on tribal tourism for NativeAmerica.travel, AIANTA publications and other promotions. The Content Developer will work closely with the Tribal Outreach team to research and interview tribal contacts and Native-owned businesses to gather information about tourism attractions.

Please submit a cover letter and detailed resume that includes a description of employment history to include name and addresses of employers, scope of responsibility, how you learned of the position, along with three professional references to: Ariel Richardson, Office Manager, AIANTA at arichardson@aianta.org by Monday, May 29, 2023, 5:00 p.m. MDT.

Celebrate AANHPI Heritage Month!

Did you know that May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month? One great way to celebrate AANHPI Heritage Month is to visit a National Park that honors AANHPI contributions and history. National parks like Haleakalā National Park in Hawaii, Manzanar National Historic Site, and Golden Gate National Recreation Area in California, highlight the unique cultures and traditions of Pacific Islanders, Native Hawaiians, and Asian Americans. By celebrating AANHPI Heritage Month at a National Park, we not only honor the contributions of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders but also gain a deeper understanding of their history and the importance of acknowledging that history. If you want to find a National Park to visit, head over to NativeAmerica.travel. NativeAmerica.travel offers an interactive regional map that shows numerous National Parks near you that are definitely worth visiting!

AIANTA and Brand USA Host Southeast

 Alaska FAM Tour

AIANTA and Brand USA hosted eight tour operators from France, Italy, the Netherlands, and Brazil last week in Southeast Alaska for an unforgettable journey through four Alaska Native communities offering cultural destinations and experiences. The FAM kicked off with an Alaska Airlines flight from Seattle to Ketchikan, and the first day was full of tours from Cape Fox (Cannery Tour and Saxman Village Tour), Where the Eagle Walks (Joe Williams), and aboard an Allen Marine water vessel. Allen Marine also provided chartered trips to Metlakatla and Kasaan - each offering its own set of unique tours (hiking Yellow Hill, viewing totems, and joining in lively dances at the long houses). The exceptional food, lodging, and hospitality were notable for the tour operators, many of whose first time it was to Alaska, and are excited to get Southeast Alaska on their itineraries.

The Hopi Credit Association and Hopi Relief Released A New Hopi Small Business Directory

The Hopi Credit Association and Hopi Relief recently released a new Hopi Small Business directory which includes a huge variety of businesses ranging from artisans to tour guides! Small businesses are the backbone of any economy especially Native American, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian communities. By sharing their knowledge and expertise with others, the Hopi Credit Association and Hopi Relief are helping to create more opportunities for entrepreneurs in their community.

The directory will serve as a valuable resource for those who want to produce their own directory. We urge all tribes to take advantage of this opportunity and use this initiative as a starting point for their own endeavors. The Hopi Small Business Directory is available to the local community of Hopi and can be picked up at a handful of locations across the Hopi reservation. Let's work together and continue to create thriving economies in our communities!