by Shannon Monk, KMKNO

Last month we introduced you to the Cultural Tourism Strategy for the Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw and the plans that are underway to develop guidelines for authentic Mi’kmaw Cultural Tourism for Nova Scotia. As many are aware, (COVID 19 notwithstanding!) tourism is one of the largest economic drivers in Nova Scotia. Although Mi’kmaw have had some involvement in this industry, we are by no means sharing equally in the significant opportunities that exist in this sector.

Cultural Tourism is generally defined as a category of tourism focused on a traveler’s engagement with a country or region’s culture, specifically the lifestyle of the people in that geographical area, their history, art, architecture, religion(s), and other elements that helped shape their way of life. It is generally agreed that cultural tourists spend substantially more than standard tourists do.

Cultural Tourism is a relatively new opportunity for Mi’kmaw communities, and generally, the tourism sector focus has been on nation-developed entities within Nova Scotia. But we know that global interest in Indigenous culture and cultural experiences is growing, while gaining recognition as an important and unique sector in tourism. The focus on experiential tourism experiences is high: tourists are seeking experiences and opportunities to learn. As noted in the Atlantic Growth Strategy, “there is an opportunity to attract far more visitors to the region for whom a culturally and environmenta ...