AtBC and the Great Bear Initiative Sign New Agreement to Support Tourism Development
January 17, 2012
(Vancouver, BC) The Aboriginal Tourism Association of British Columbia (AtBC) and the Coastal First Nations Great Bear Initiative (GBI) have signed an agreement to jointly enhance support for the community led development of authentic Aboriginal cultural tourism along British Columbia’s west coast today.
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“Aboriginal tourism continues to witness strong growth throughout BC and the organizations recognize the need to mutually support training, product development and strategic marketing in those communities wishing to expand their participation in the tourism economy,” said Art Sterritt.
Sterritt, the Executive Director of the Coastal First Nations, said there are Aboriginal cultural tourism businesses such as the Haida Heritage Center (Skidegate), Spirit Bear Lodge (Klemtu), Sea Shore Charters (Prince Rupert), already in operation along the coast. “However, with increasing market demand, a coordinated approach to sustainable tourism development will provide visitors to BC new tourism experiences while supporting Aboriginal cultural revitalization and capacity building for a number of communities.”
AtBC Chairperson Brenda Baptiste: “AtBC and GBI working together will result in efficiencies and strategic investments to provide visitors to BC new and exciting experiences. The communities working with GBI have tremendous history and a rich culture that is alive today. We know there is a tremendous interest in new experiences and our work together aligns well with the new AtBC Five Year Plan, the Provincial Government Tourism Strategy, as well as industry interests.”
AtBC Chairperson Baptiste concluded: “The Aboriginal cultural tourism sector has tremendous potential for Aboriginal communities throughout BC. There is no question about increasing consumer demand. In additional Aboriginal communities are embracing a cultural revitalization and telling the world their stories in their own authentic ways through tourism. This partnership will further assist the existing Aboriginal cultural tourism businesses and enhance new sector development for additional world class tourism experiences along BC’s west coast.”
Backgrounder:
For the past decade the Coastal First Nations have charted a course that has strengthened the connections between our communities, our environment, and our economy. The Coastal First Nations model supports the re-emergence of a sustainable economy while taking into account the cultural and ecological diversity of the Great Bear Rainforest. Sustainable tourism is an important opportunity and our partnership with AtBC will support tangible results for our communities.”
The Great Bear Initiative Society (GBI) operates under the direction of a Board that consists of a representative from each of the participating First Nations:
- Wuikinuxv Nation
- Heiltsuk Nation
- Nuxalk Nation
- Kitasoo/Xaixais First Nation
- Gitga’at First Nation
- Haisla, Metlakatla First Nation
- Old Massett Village Council
- Skidegate Band Council
- Council of the Haida Nation
- Lax Kw'alaams is an associate member of the Coastal First Nations.
The Coastal First Nations office in Vancouver supports the goals of GBI leaders by providing strategic planning support, assisting in the development of economic strategies, and supporting capacity building for communities. As well the office provides strategic regional planning, negotiation and administrative support to Coastal First Nations on environmental and socio-economic issues. Tourism is a strategic priority for the development of the conservation economy in the Central, North Coast and Haida Gwaii.
Media Contact:
Keith Henry
Chief Executive Officer
Phone: 604 921-1070
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