Tourism Opens Minds – Take the Pledge
Tourism moves people, ideas, and economies and has the power to bridge cultures and bring people together. Because when we move, so do our minds. And the more we move, the more our minds and hearts open. So why then do we so often close ourselves off from the world? And allow the fear of the unknown, the feeling of not being welcome, and the worry that the way is not yet paved, to make us visit the same places, meet the same people, and have the same stories and experiences.
The United National World Trade Organization (UNWTO) recently launched its ‘Tourism Open Minds’ global initiative to encourage consumers to diversify their travel habits and encourage nations, tourism sector leaders, and consumers to broaden their horizons and explore uncharted corners of our world.
Tourism Leaders Pledge to Act
- Make lesser-known destinations more welcoming and accessible;
- Help to cater to, and foster, an environment that compliments trips to lesser-known destinations;
- To be more open-minded to new cultures and destinations.
A new symbol to represent the initiative was also unveiled. Inspired by the colors of the flags of every country in the world, the symbol acts as a visual representation of working together to recognize the power of tourism in fostering cultural connections and sustainable growth for all.
Source: UNWTO
Today is Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Today is a day to honor the perseverance and courage of Indigenous peoples and express our gratitude for the contributions they have made to the world. For many generations, our Nation carried out the shameful policy of removing Indigenous peoples from their homelands, forcing them to assimilate, and banning them from speaking their own languages, passing down ancient traditions, and performing sacred ceremonies. Precious lands were taken, countless lives lost, and the Native American way of life was forever changed. In spite of unimaginable loss and seemingly insurmountable odds, Indigenous peoples have survived. Despite centuries of devastation and turmoil, Tribal Nations continue to thrive and lead in countless ways.
