The Rupert Report

From the Desk of AIANTA's CEO | May 8, 2023

Get out and experience Indian Country this week,

National Travel and Tourism Week!

Pictured: Adventurous Antelope Canyon Tours

AIANTA Highlights for the Coming Week

American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association Celebrates 25 Years as the Leader in Indigenous and Cultural Heritage Tourism During U.S. Travel Association’s National Travel & Tourism Week

The American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association (AIANTA) is celebrating its 25th anniversary as the leader in tribal tourism. AIANTA has been instrumental in promoting and preserving the rich cultural heritage of American Indian and Alaska Native communities through tourism. AIANTA's 25 years of leadership in tribal tourism is a testament to their commitment to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of American Indian and Alaska Native communities. Our efforts have not only created economic opportunities but also fostered greater understanding and appreciation of these unique cultures. It is essential that we continue to work towards creating a more inclusive world where diversity is celebrated.

Make Plans For National Travel and Tourism Week! 

National Travel and Tourism Week is an exciting time for travelers and tourists alike. It's a time to celebrate the beauty of our country and all that it has to offer. This year, why not plan your week with Nativeamerica.travel and Shop Native?

Nativeamerica.travel is the perfect resource for anyone looking to explore the rich history and culture of Native American tribes across the United States. From breathtaking natural landscapes to vibrant cultural experiences, there's something for everyone on the website. When you're ready to shop for unique souvenirs or gifts, AIANTA's Shop Native has you covered with a wide selection of authentic Native American crafts, jewelry, clothing, and more.

By planning for National Travel and Tourism Week with these two resources, you will not only have an unforgettable experience but you'll also support local businesses and communities. So why wait? Start planning your trip today!

GW & AIANTA Professional Certificate in Cultural Heritage Tourism: Information Session Webinar

Tuesday, May 23, 2023 10:00am (Mountain)

Join us for an information session on the Professional Certificate in Cultural Heritage Tourism offered by the George Washington University International Institute of Tourism Studies (GW) in partnership with AIANTA. This 7-week online program provides tourism entrepreneurs and community leaders with the tools to identify and develop tourism assets.

During this informational session, Strategic Program Advisor, Stephanie Westhelle, will provide an overview of program content, structure and time commitment. Next, session participants will have the opportunity to hear from one of the program instructors, Judy Walden. She teaches the Introduction to Cultural Heritage Tourism course. Ms. Walden will discuss examples of cultural heritage tourism and their importance to tribal communities. This will include a highlight of recent trends and statistics associated with cultural heritage tourism. Dr. Kristin Lamoureux teaches the Tourism Planning & Management Course and will discuss tools that participants can use to engage their communities in cultural heritage tourism planning processes. These processes include assessing tourism potential, determining readiness, evaluating costs and benefits of development, and introducing local tourism management models.

There will be an opportunity for Q&A near the end of the information session.

2023 HŌʻIHI NATIVE Act Grant Program for Native Hawaiian Organizations

The Office of Native Hawaiian Relations (ONHR) announces the launch of a new program for Native Hawaiian organizations (NHO) that implement the Native American Tourism and improving Visitor Experience Act (NATIVE Act). The purpose of the NATIVE Act are to establish a more inclusive national travel and tourism strategy and has the potential to deliver significant benefits for Native Hawaiian organizations (NHO) such as job creation, elevated living standards and expanded economic opportunities. The awards range from $50,000 to $200,000 in funding and is open to those who meet the criteria of a Native Hawaiian organization, the deadline to apply is June 6, 2023. Learn more information by visiting Grants.gov.

The AK Fam Tour Is Coming Soon!

We are thrilled to announce that AIANTA and Brand USA are partnering to host the highly anticipated 2023 Southeast Alaska Familiarization Tour. This unique tour will be attended by eight delegates from France, Benelux, Italy, and Brazil from May 14th to May 18th, 2023.

The FAM tour will commence in Seattle and offer authentic cultural tourism experiences that are exclusive to each community. It is an excellent opportunity to experience Alaska Native travel, which has seen growing interest from international audiences over the last few years. Traveling by airplane and water vessels to the Alaska Native destinations, the FAM tour will visit four different communities during the full agenda - Ketchikan (Day 1), Metlakatla (Day 2), Kasaan (Day 3), and Sitka (Day 4).

The FAM experiences are deeply steeped in living history among totem poles, petroglyphs, clan/long houses, dancers and drumming, storytelling, hikes through the lush flora of Southeast Alaska, cruising the scenic coastlines, and access to crafted items from Alaska Natives.

Following the FAM tour, participants will proceed to IPW in San Antonio, Texas. IPW is the largest travel trade show in the United States for the international tourism industry. The event is organized by the U.S. Travel Association and brings together travel buyers, suppliers, media, and other tourism professionals from around the world to promote and sell U.S. travel destinations and products.

Partnership with Brand USA propels our capacity to showcase Native America in the international market!