The Rupert Report

From the Desk of AIANTA's CEO | May 29, 2023

All Native Honor Flight to Washington, DC.

AIANTA Highlights for the Coming Week

We Honor our Native Veterans and Active Duty Military and Families this Memorial Day

John Rupert Swearing-In Ceremony - U.S. Marine Corps

Memorial Day has an extra special meaning for me this year as my son John has committed his service to this country through enlistment in the U.S. Marines. I am very proud of his sense of responsibility and patriotism, a long tradition in our family starting with my father (U.S. Marine), and John's father (U.S. Army), his older brothers (U.S. Navy and U.S. Marines) and numerous relatives.

Native veterans have a long and proud tradition of serving in the United States Armed Forces. From the Code Talkers of World War II to the present day, Native men and women have served with distinction and honor, often in the face of great adversity. Their contributions to our nation's military history are immeasurable, and their service should be celebrated and honored. Native veterans have demonstrated unwavering patriotism and dedication to their country. Many have served multiple tours of duty, and some have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation. Their bravery and sacrifice have helped to protect the freedoms and liberties that we enjoy, and we owe them a debt of gratitude that can never be fully repaid.

2023 Tribal Row at IPW, San Antonio, TX

AIANTA's Tribal Row had record-high attendance at IPW this year! Never before have we had so many Tribal Tour Operators share their experiences with us, and we couldn't be more grateful. IPW is the travel industry's premier international marketplace and AIANTA's participation provided an opportunity to showcase what experiences American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians can offer to the travel trade from around the world. AIANTA and Tribal Row booths featured Native American tourism destinations, experiences, and products, providing attendees an opportunity to learn about the unique cultural tourism offerings. AIANTA also participated in several networking events and educational sessions, which provided valuable opportunities to connect with travel industry professionals and share insights on the importance of cultural tourism. Overall, AIANTA's Tribal Row was a HUGE success!

Living and Creating in an Inspirational Setting: Artist Residency Programs

Tuesday, June 13, 2023 10:00am (Mountain)

In this webinar, you will hear from Native artists, galleries and cultural centers who will share their experiences with Native Artist residencies in different models around the country. Residency programs can help expose participating artists to new audiences, promote cultural literacy with visitors, and enrich each artist by providing resources, space and time for them to grow as professional artists and do new work. An artist's immersive experience may be used to invite artists to reflect new ways to see National Parks or Wildlife areas, or it may be an opportunity for several artists at once to inspire one another in collective studios, or for emerging artists to develop new work and have an opportunity to stay, work and display or perform new works in gallery or theater settings. Join us to find out how to go on your next art adventure, or imagine how tribal communities can support artist residencies as part of their cultural programs. 

Registration will soon be available here.

Celebrate National Trails by Hiking a Historical Native American Trail

National Trails Day June 6, 2023

"Chief Joseph" art installation on the Nez Perce (Nimiipuu) Trail

National Trails Day is a day to celebrate the beauty and importance of trails across the United States. This year, why not take the opportunity to hike one of the many national trails significant to American Indians or Native Hawaiians? These trails offer stunning scenery and a chance to learn about the rich history and culture of Indigenous peoples in the United States. There are many historic trails across the country, such as the Santa Fe Trail in New Mexico or the Nez Perce Trail in Idaho. No matter where you live, there is likely a trail nearby that you can explore. In addition, there are these Historical Trails (and more) to visit:

• Ala Kahakai
• California
• Captain John Smith Chesapeake
• Chilkoot
• Nez Perce (Nimiipuu)
• Pony Express

So this National Trails Day, let's honor our country's Indigenous peoples by hiking one of these historic trails. Not only will it be an enriching experience for ourselves but also an act of respect towards those who came before us.

Nominate Your Favorite Destination or Experience for the 2023-2024 Excellence in Tourism

Industry Awards!

We are seeking nominations for the 2023-2024 Excellence in Tourism Industry Awards! As the only organization dedicated to advancing indigenous tourism across the United States, the American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association (AIANTA) recognizes the best of Indian Country travel and tourism at its annual Excellence in Tourism Industry Awards ceremony, held every year during the American Indian Tourism Conference (AITC). Winners of these prestigious awards have made a significant impact on tribal tourism, have helped AIANTA achieve its mission, foster a greater understanding of and appreciation for authentic culture, history, heritage and/or the arts, and showcase the best of Indian Country travel and tourism.

AIANTA recognizes enterprises and individuals in four categories:

• Tribal Destination of the Year
• Best Cultural Heritage Experience
• Excellence in Customer Service
• Industry Professional Award

Any AIANTA member in good standing can be nominated for an award. If the nominee is a non-member, the organization submitting the nomination may sponsor the nominee’s membership. The deadline to submit an application for the 2023-2024 Excellence in Tourism Industry Awards is July 21, 2023.