Federal government strengthens Indigenous tourism and creates middle class jobs

Kanien’kehá:ka Nation (Montreal, QC) – On May 22, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Tourism, Official Languages and La Francophonie, announced an investment of $2.5 million for several projects to be implemented in partnership with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC).

ITAC’s President and CEO Keith Henry was asked to join in the announcement, which took place in various cities across Canada, emphasizing the national impact of the new Federal Tourism Growth Strategy.

“As we continue to see interest in Indigenous tourism increase, I am pleased with the Government of Canada’s commitment towards growing and supporting the industry,” said Henry.

“We look forward to offering a variety of authentic products and experiences across Canada to visitors so they will not only enjoy what we have to offer, but return again and again.”

“More and more travellers are coming to Canada to experience Indigenous cultures and heritage—so much so that Indigenous tourism is outpacing the growth of the sector overall. There are examples across the country of communities that have transformed their economies through tourism. We want to help Indigenous communities across the country build on their rich traditions to grow their tourism sector and create good jobs for middle class families,” said the Honourable Mélanie Joly ...