“Accessibility for All” Holds Meaning on World Tourism Day

Today is World Tourism Day, recognized by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) “to foster awareness among the international community of the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, political and economic value.” Tourism is something many Native American tribes are familiar with, particularly in the U.S. and even more specifically tribes on Historic Route 66.

Through this year’s theme of “Tourism For All: Promoting Universal Accessibility,” UNWTO is inspiring everyone to “experience the incredible diversity of our planet and the beauty of the world we live in.” We encourage you to consider this and the many wonders that can be seen when you visit an Indian reservation.

We also encourage you to remember to be discerning in your purchases of Native American goods, should your travels bring you to Indian Country. “Native-inspired” does not mean Native-made and we previously posted some guidelines to follow when you’re wondering about authenticity.

The UNWTO’s broader theme of accessibility is one we wholeheartedly support. Accessibility – to nutrition, education, health care – is a challenge faced by many Native Americans living on the reservation, due to geographically remote and isolated locations. Also, many Elders have physical limitations that keep them homebound. Partnership With Native Americans addresses these needs through a number of services, at the right time, in the right way, made possible with the help of donors, collaborators and reservation partners.

Whether you’re planning a weekend road trip, or a multi-country, globe-trotting adventure, we wish you safe travels and accessibility to all the joyful experiences and perspective travel has to offer.