by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 1:10 PM ET, Thu April 18, 2024
The American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association (AIANTA) has announced that registration is now open for the 26th annual American Indigenous Tourism Conference (AITC).
AITC is organized by AIANTA, but will be held this year on the tribal homelands of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana at Paragon Casino Resort in Marksville, Louisiana, from October 28 through October 31, 2024. This year’s theme is “Cultural Tourism: Changing the Narrative,” reflecting the transformation in the narrative of native nations and communities, where traditions and Indigenous perspectives are now front and center.
Each year, the conference draws over 300 attendees who participate in networking opportunities, keynote sessions and breakout sessions led by industry experts.
“It is a pivotal moment for Indigenous peoples as they assert their agency, share their stories authentically, and showcase their rich cultural heritage,” said AIANTA CEO Sherry L. Rupert. “In essence, this year’s AITC theme marks a resounding call for recognition, respect, and empowerment—a testament to the resilience and vitality of Indigenous communities.”
“AIANTA is proud to partner with our AITC host the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana to bring best-in-class education, training and networking opportunities, as American Indian, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian-owned hospitality businesses continue to contribute to the growing tourism and hospitality sector in the U.S.,” continued Rupert.
Mobile workshops are offered at the conference each year by the local host tribe. This year, the Tunica-Biloxi Tribal Citizens will take attendees on a Spring Bayou Boat and Sightseeing Tour, followed by a shrimp boil and pig roast. Another mobile workshop includes a visit to the Tunica-Biloxi Cultural and Educational Resources Center.
The conference will also host the Excellence in Tourism Industry Awards Gala on October 30, which includes a dinner and a silent auction. Awards include Best Cultural Heritage Experience, Indigenous Destination of the Year and more.
Paragon Casino Resort offers 500 rooms and suites across three hotel towers; three pools; a full casino; full-service spa and salon; indoor golf simulators and an 18-hole championship golf course; movie theater; several dining options; supervised play center for children and much more.
“The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe is very proud of what Paragon Casino Resort can offer visitors. We are excited to extend a warm welcome to all attendees of the American Indigenous Tourism Conference, inviting them to experience our home and immerse themselves in our rich culture," said Tunica-Biloxi Chairman Marshall Pierite. “We strive to bring progress and opportunities to our Native American brothers and sisters. We are honored to work with AIANTA to move that mission forward and succeed in our common quest of enriching the lives of all Indigenous people.”
This year, AIANTA is celebrating its 26th year as a leader in Indigenous tourism. It’s the only national organization dedicated to advancing cultural tourism in Native Nations across the United States. Earlier this year, it announced a global partnership with New Zealand Maori Tourism (NZMT) and the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) to create a unified voice championing Indigenous tourism worldwide, called Destination Original Indigenous Tourism.
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