Two NFN members named Knowledge Keepers by Indigenous Tourism Ontario

Two members of Nipissing First Nation have been named as Knowledge Keepers for Indigenous Tourism Ontario.

Officials say Perry McLeod-Shabogesic and Lauri McLeod-Shabogesic are part of a team of 14 Knowledge Keepers who will ensure the industry is equipped with culturally respectful tools and resources to conduct business in a responsible manner, all with the goal of protecting the knowledge, values, beliefs and traditions of all Indigenous Peoples in Ontario.

Officials add as the wider tourism industry looks to build partnerships and help develop Indigenous tourism products, these guidelines will help to prevent cultural appropriation and exploitation of Indigenous cultures in tourism.

The full team includes:

Tyler French, Chippewas Of The Thames
Jaquie Jamieson, Six Nations of the Grand River
Beatrice (Bea) Johnson Tarbell, Akwesasne
Dominic Beaudry, Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory
Perry McLeod-Shabogesic, Nipissing First Nation
Neda Debassige, M’Chigeeng First Nation
Josh Eshkawkogan, Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory
Quinn Meawasige, Serpent River First Nation
Sam Manitowabi, Lac Seul First Nation
Michelle Savoie, Métis Nation of Ontario
Laurie McLeod-Shabogesic, Nipissing First Nation
Tim McGregor, Whitefish River First Nation
David R. Maracle, Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory
Dorothy French, Chippewas Of The Thames

“We are extremely excited to engage this group of outstanding individuals,” said Kevin Eshkawkogan, President & CEO, Indigenous Tourism Ontario. “They will be focused on developing, implementing, and maintaining broad and inclusive Indigenous cultural integrity guidelines applicable to all aspects of tourism operations, engagements, and practices. Their work will be reflective of the nations in Ontario and will lead with a Indigenous led grassroots approach.”