Modern Treaties in Canada: A One Hour Course → Culture

Culture

Harold Johnson in front of a traditional shelter at Long Ago People’s Place, near Champagne Landing, Yukon. Each year thousands of tourists visit Yukon, many keen to experience First Nations culture and history. Some Yukon First Nations see tourism as an opportunity to revive and maintain cultural practices while generating revenue. ©Peter Mather

The rich cultural history and practices of modern treaty organizations are highly marketable for tourism purposes both domestically and internationally. Surveys reveal that one in three international visitors to Canada are interested in Indigenous experiences. These sources of income can serve to further strengthen Indigenous culture by allowing some people to earn a living expressing and exploring their cultural identity.

Examples of economic development in culture include:

Inuit drum dancing, throat singing, carving
First Nations dancing and drumming
First Nations and Inuit beadwork and sewing
Arts and crafts
Guiding and outfitting services offering experiences such as hunting and fishing using traditional methods or in traditional clothing
Online and physical retail stores:
Workshops on traditional practices
Food classes and restaurants