Cree Nation of Oujé-Bougoumou, Quebec – A meaningful gathering of Cree tourism operators, leaders, partners, and visionaries took place at the Cree Outfitting and Tourism Association (COTA) and Eeyou Istchee Tourism (EIT) Annual General Meeting and Tourism Conference last week.
The event, held on September 18 and 19, 2024, at the Aanischaaukamikw Cree Cultural Institute, brought together a unique cross-section of delegates around the theme Reconciliation: Both Journey and Destination – The Power of Indigenous Tourism. It was a resounding success, sparking important dialogues, building bridges between communities, and stimulating enthusiasm for the future of Indigenous tourism in Eeyou Istchee.
The 85+ delegates at the tourism conference included Cree tourism operators from across Eeyou Istchee, Jamesien neighbours, guests from other Nations, and partners from various Federal and Provincial Government departments. Contributions from Indigenous Tourism Quebec (ITQ) and the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) filled out the dynamic agenda, with subject matter experts and distinguished guests such as Keith Henry, President of ITAC, delivering informative workshops on topics like cultural authenticity, sustainable tourism, international marketing and reconciliation.
In Eeyou Istchee, we are at a key moment for Cree tourism development, with lots of investment, interest, and opportunity before us. Reconciliation is critical to move forward in a good way. We need to work to understand one another, acknowledge past difficulties, and build positive relationships with our neighbours so we can build a better future together.
My time in the Cree territory of northern Quebec is always so special. The communities and their Indigenous tourism work exemplify what Indigenous destination development can achieve when it is Indigenous lead, community-supported, and backed by consumer demands. Participating with the Cree Outfitting and Tourism Association and hearing the passion while seeing the achievements year over year is inspiring to us at ITAC. ITAC has created a national Indigenous tourism vision for 2030 and having members and partners with COTA and the numerous Cree tourism businesses will be critical to meeting the potential of Indigenous tourism in Canada.
Gala and Awards Showcase Excellence in Eeyou Istchee’s Tourism Sector
Following two days of presentations, workshops, and conversation, conference attendees enjoyed an evening networking event and gala. After tasting some of the flavours of Eeyou Istchee developed through the Niimaawin (Food for Travel) project and browsing booths featuring local artisans, delegates enjoyed an evening filled with applause and success stories as COTA handed out its Recognition Awards.
The Awards showcased some of the incredible talent and creativity in the Eeyou Istchee tourism sector, including Anna and David Bosum (winners of the Cultural Tourism Ambassador Award) and the Nibiischii Corporation (winner of the Operator of the Year Award). Wiinipaakw Tours Solidarity Cooperative, which offers boat tours led by local Cree captains, was recognized for a successful first startup season, and recently retired server Priscilla Blueboy received the Lifetime Achievement Award for her decades of service. The Cree Nation of Waskaganish also won a Visitor Experience award for recent investments in its waterfront, trails, interpretive panels, and cultural activities.
With reconciliation at the forefront, sharing and storytelling played an important role in both the daytime and evening activities. Cree tourism operators openly discussed their hopes, fears, and experiences, while partner organizations shared important knowledge and programs. Gala performer, Kenny Mianscum, even took the time to tell everyone about his experiences at Residential School, giving attendees a firsthand account of the impacts of the difficult history they share.
Overall, Mrs. McGinley saw the event as an inspiring step in the right direction.
Being able to have these conversations about reconciliation and tourism – on our territory, surrounded by our culture, following the lead of our people – was a powerful experience that I am sure will stay with everyone.
Sustainability in Action at the COTA AGM and Tourism Conference
Sustainable tourism is central to COTA’s mission, says Mrs. McGinley, “And it starts with us.”
The AGM and Conference was organized with great attention to environmental friendliness. Reusable plates, silverware, and water bottles were used for all meals, and registration and conference information were offered in a digital, paperless format. AGM delegates were also invited to attend a community cleanup following the day’s presentations, which offered a chance to connect over a shared activity while also having a positive impact on the environment.
A strong commitment to sustainability has been always central to COTA/EIT’s work. Recently, the organization’s leadership attended the Global Sustainable Tourism Conference and completed the Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP). The training provider, GreenStep Solutions, also presented at the Conference. COTA/EIT hopes to extend more training and sustainability-related consulting services to their members in the future.
With an excellent combination of delegates, a sustainable approach, and a meaningful theme, the 2024 AGM and Conference was a remarkable success that deeply aligned with their longstanding mission: “to develop and implement a collective vision for a world-class sustainable tourism industry in Eeyou Istchee that is in harmony with Cree culture and values and that involves a partnership with Cree communities, institutions, and businesses.”
To learn more about the work COTA is doing in these areas, and how it is supporting members across Eeyou Istchee, visit creetourism.ca. and follow the Cree Outfitting and Tourism Association on Facebook.