Powwow Ambassadors
From article -
“There is a new impetus for tourism based on eco- and cultural tourism. It’s proven that the spend rate for eco- and cultural tourism is almost three times the regular tourism rate.
“It is a whole different audience and it is a more upscale consumer that you are dealing with. The spend rate is a lot higher. And they tend to spend more time because they are there to learn instead of doing a superficial visit.”
I find this very true, informed persons actually shun the casinos, would rather lay down their money with people selling historically accurate and authentic crafts, made by North American indigenous people.
From Comments section -
12:51 PM Keep Tradition Local wrote ...V.T., What "next level"? A powwow is not a teachable moment for German tourists or about making big profits which is exactly what the big casino tribes and cities have morphed the powwow into, a big business. A big No Thanks. Our people will continue with the old-fashion, word-of-mouth where the powwow tradition is about social gatherings and visiting with friends and relatives and NOT PAYING HIGH TICKET PRICES and sit besides international guests. Who would've known Indians would someday market our social gatherings???
Hmmm...casting a wide net to haul in spectators, be careful who you reel in. Or, be specific - is this a Social Powwow, or Contest Powwow?
My personal note -
Having "cultural guides" or "ambassadors" at a powwow would keep visitors within protocol, enrich their understanding, and make them a better guest at the next powwow they attend.
Way too many people nowadays assume that "All Indians" are Casino-rich.
Leave a comment: