The Rupert Report

From the Desk of AIANTA's CEO | June 26, 2023

Follow our AIANTA team on Facebook as they visit tribal attractions on their six-day journey along the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail

AIANTA Highlights for the Coming Week

Cherokee Nation Expands Tourism Portfolio!

The Cherokee Nation recently expanded its tourism portfolio by acquiring the historic Will Rogers Birthplace Ranch from the Oklahoma Historical Society. The impressive estate is 162 acres in total and the property includes a historic ranch-style home, a caretaker’s home and two outbuildings. The museum gives us a glimpse of 19th-century ranch life in the Cooweescoowee District of the Cherokee Nation and educates visitors about Rogers’ Cherokee lineage and his family’s relocation to Indian Territory.

"No matter how popular he was, Will Rogers was always a Cherokee, and he talked about it. He reminded people every day that there are Native people of this land still alive and who remain a vibrant part of America’s tapestry." -- Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr.

NEW Interview With Native America Calling

I recently did an interview with Native America Calling and it was an amazing experience! We discussed Native Tourism and maintaining authenticity while being part of the travel industry. The summer is the most active time for tourism as there are tons of families traveling across the country searching for something new and exciting to be a part of. Much of what AIANTA works to accomplish is to advocate for travelers to connect with the most authentic destinations and experiences Native America has to offer. NativeAmerica.travel is by far one of the most powerful tools in this process of connecting travelers with the places they are visiting. Tune in to this episode of Native American Calling to hear how AIANTA and others are working towards bringing authentic cultural tourism to the forefront of the travel industry!

Informational Webinar: AIANTA/USFS FY 2023 Request for Proposals

Thursday, June 29, 2023 1:00pm (Mountain)

AIANTA and the U.S. Forest Service will host an informational webinar regarding the Request for Proposals for NATIVE Act Tribal Projects and Initiatives on or adjacent to U.S. Forest Service Managed Lands. The webinar will showcase a panel of past grantees with a question and answer session specific to types of projects, timelines, the application process and project implementation.

The Eastern Band of Cherokee 4th of July Powwow

June 30-July 2, 2023

Cherokee, NC

Experience an action-packed three-day event during the 4th of July weekend in Cherokee, North Carolina! During the Cherokee Powwow, you will have the opportunity to try authentic tribal foods, shop for traditional Indian crafts and get an insider’s look at a rich ancient culture. The Eastern Band of Cherokee hosts the following dance categories: Traditional, Jingle, Grass and Fancy Dancing styles. Grand Entry is Friday June 30, 2023 at 7:30 pm. Come and see this spectacular event and witness the captivating colors of the gorgeous regalia!

Become a Sponsor for AITC

Now entering its 25th year, the Annual American Indian Tourism Conference (AITC) is the only national conference dedicated to growing tourism in America’s indigenous communities.



Every year the conference attracts more than 300 tourism and industry professionals, federal and state agencies and tribal leaders who attend for the networking opportunities, the high-level keynote sessions and the informative breakout sessions led by some of the leading hospitality industry experts. It’s an event that I look forward to each year and an opportunity for our sponsors to shine. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor of AITC you can find the sponsor prospectus below.