The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) acknowledges that:

The Thompson Okanagan region is situated on the traditional, unceded territory of three Interior Salish nations: the Syilx, Secwépemc, and Nlaka'pamux peoples. As well, the Thompson Okanagan includes land and water routes that were created and used, both historically and presently, by Indigenous peoples as seasonal travel and trade routes.
The TOTA office and Tourism Inspiration Centre are situated on the traditional, unceded territory of the Syilx Okanagan People.

We are grateful to have the opportunity to create, collaborate, play, and work on these lands.

About Land Acknowledgements

The recognition of territory is a way to show respect for Indigenous peoples by testifying to their presence, both historical and current.

It’s important to acknowledge the Indigenous peoples who have called this land home for over 10,000 years as we work to share knowledge between current and future generations.

TOTA’s Commitment

TOTA is committed to working towards truth and reconciliation by collaborating with Indigenous tourism companies and Indigenous communities in the Thompson Okanagan region and with Indigenous Tourism British Columbia (ITBC). As an organization and team, we continuously reflect on our relationship with the land and our commitment to reconciliation as it relates to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).

Acknowledging traditional territory is only one step on the path to cultivate strong relations with First Nation and Métis peoples.

To demonstrate our commitment:

TOTA continuously works to cultivate credible relations with the 33 Indigenous communities throughout the Thompson Okanagan and endeavours to develop economic opportunities that progress Indigenous Tourism within the region, whilst maintaining respect and cultural authenticity.
Since 2016, TOTA and Indigenous Tourism British Columbia (ITBC) have worked collaboratively through a jointly hired Regional Indigenous Tourism Specialist. Based in the Thompson Okanagan, the role was created to develop and implement a cultural tourism strategy in alignment with TOTA’s Embracing Our Potential and ITBC’s Pulling Together strategies.
TOTA plans and supports Indigenous cultural events and initiatives, such as the 2019 International Indigenous Tourism Conference hosted in Kelowna; Indigenous Artisan Trails Gallery/Venue (IArT); the Thompson Okanagan Regional Pledge, 7 Affirmations for 7 Generations, and more.
TOTA encourages tourism organizations and professionals to develop partnerships with local Indigenous communities, and to recognize and honour Indigenous peoples by acknowledging the traditional territories.

Learn More

Indigenous Land, History, and Culture

As individuals, organizations, and governments, we all have a part in working towards reconciliation. We can begin by learning more about the lands where we live, work, and play.

For more information on traditional territories and Indigenous communities, check out the following resources and contact communities directly for specific information.