The Province and Aboriginal Tourism Association of British Columbia welcomed Aboriginal and tourism leaders from around the province to the 5th First Citizens' Forum - November 13, 2007.Cultural Programs

Since the beginning of time, Aboriginal people of British Columbia have valued their cultures –cultures that include the songs, stories, ceremonies, values, beliefs, way of life, and languages. Today's Aboriginal people continue the tradition of teaching and sharing their language and traditions so their knowledge can be passed on to future generations.

Through the First Citizens Fund, the Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation assists in the revitalization, promotion and preservation of Aboriginal languages and culture by supporting the the First Peoples' Heritage, Language and Culture Council (FPHLCC) and by providing opportunities for Elders to share and celebrate Aboriginal culture and oral traditions.

Following the 2007 First Citizens’ Forum with a focus on Aboriginal Cultural Tourism, the Ministry committed to:

  • improving the provincial government’s internal capacity to support Aboriginal cultural revitalization, preservation, and protocol;
  • work to enhance service and product  quality, while building capacity through education and training; and,
  • work with Aboriginal Tourism Association of British Columbia and Tourism BC, to support the implementation of the Aboriginal Cultural Tourism Blueprint Strategy.