InnFocus Fall 2023

Courtesy of Destination BC/Hubert Kang
3. Educate Staff and Guests.
Engage a company like Moccasin Trails to educate staff at all various
levels. “Everyone has a different role to play but it starts from the
top. The manager needs to be invested; it can’t be done from the
ground up,” says Antoine. “We don’t want our culture systemized.
We don’t have a top to bottom. We work in a circle, everyone is
equal. I am not the only one making a decision. Staff are involved
in the process, too.”
When guests check in, incorporate First Nations language, and
explain why. Instead of a Bible in the bedside table, provide the
history of the local Indigenous community, Antoine suggests. “Let
guests experience culture through the five senses,” he adds.
He also encourages hoteliers to hire staff from a First Nations
perspective and prepare someone for a manager role who is
Indigenous.
4. Be Aware of What’s Happening in Local Indigenous
Communities.
Consider offering special room rates during local Pow Wows and
maintaining ongoing support for Indigenous events. “We want to
see fairness in advertising and support of Indigenous events,” says
Antoine.
5. Be Open to the Process.
“We do a lot of business back and forth with the different First
Nations groups in the area,” notes Pilbeam. “They feel welcomed
and respected. It is not something you can become ‘certified in.’ It
is an ongoing journey and process.”
Be authentic, keep learning, and have an open mind as you begin
or continue to build relationships with local Indigenous groups.
InnFocus 23