The Rupert Report
From the Desk of AIANTA's CEO
August 16, 2021
Historic Vessel-Recreation by Lorraine Gala Lewis
AIANTA Highlights for the Coming Week
Congrats to Redwood Yurok Canoe Tours
Congrats to the Yurok Tribe on the launch of the much-anticipated Redwood Yurok Canoe Tours in Northern California, despite weather and climate challenges. These canoes are being called the “rarest vessels in the world,” as there are only ten in the world, with just two of them open to the public.

Webinar: Enriching Alaska Tourism Through First People’s Voices
Tuesday, August 24; 10 am MDT
While travelers to Alaska are lured by the state’s sense of adventure, few are familiar with Alaska’s sweeping narrative from a Native lens. The cruise industry, which delivers more than one million visitors a year, has only recently started offering “Meet the Locals” type programs, providing passengers a deeper, more fulfilling experience. Partnering with Native culture bearers is not an option limited to cruise lines, however. But the key to creating an authentic narrative is working directly with Native organizations and not speaking on their behalf. Learn from Camille Ferguson, Economic Development Director of the Sitka Tribe of Alaska, Keneggnarkayaaggaq Emily Edenshaw, EMBA, President & CEO, Alaska Native Heritage Center and Mary Goddard, Regional Catalyst for Regenerative Tourism, Southeast Alaska, on how adding authentic Native Voices to tourism programming can enrich the Alaska visitor experience. 

Excellence in Tourism Hospitality Awards
Deadline: August 31
As the only organization dedicated to advancing indigenous tourism across the United States AIANTA recognizes the best of Indian Country travel and tourism at its annual Excellence in Tourism Industry Awards held every year during AITC. AIANTA recognizes four categories:
  • Tribal Destination of the Year
  • Best Cultural Heritage Experience
  • Excellence in Customer Service
  • Industry Professional Award

The deadline for nominations is coming soon, so nominate someone now!

Bringing a Team to AITC?
Sign up for our tribal team sponsorship
Are you bringing a team to this years AITC? If so, have you considered signing up to be a tribal team sponsor? A tribal team sponsorship (starting at $3,500) includes three AITC registrations (all attendees must be from the same Tribe or organization), one annual tribal/business AIANTA membership, your name listed on sponsor page in AITC program and on AIANTA.org and your logo on the AITC conference app.

Santa Fe Indian Art Market
August 21-22
The SWAIA Indian Art Market in Santa Fe, NM is returning this weekend and we, at AIANTA, are so excited! There will be tons of art, events and entertainment. If you are in New Mexico, stop by and support our state’s Native artisans, including our very own Lorraine Gala Lewis (who can be found at Booth No. LIN W 707).

Boneedwa
(See you later, Northern Paiute)
 

Sherry L. Rupert, Chief Executive Officer
American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association
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