Indigenous People and Tourism – Film and discussion

Indigenous peoples are self-defined groups of ethnically and culturally distinct peoples, whose language, traditions and social institutions have largely withstood the impacts of colonisation or other incoming groups and cultures to a region.

Whilst indigenous tourism can be very positive, a form of revitalisation for their cultures and a force of empowerment for the people. Other instances see  these often marginalised people and villages becoming mere showcases for tourists, and elements of their culture reduced to commodities, offering little engagement and  with very little benefit to community. This can lead to feelings of frustration and resentment amongst local people towards tourists, undermining the positive experience that should come with equitable cultural exchange.

The Tourism Concern film and discussion evening will consider two examples where indigenous people have become tourist attractions – the Mursi in Ethiopia and the Padaung People in northern Thailand.

Is it ethical to visit these communities? Are tourists unwittingly keeping alive traditional practices that are harmful to women? How can tourism, that is generating much needed revenue for these groups, be conducted better? How can tourists and indigenous people interact with each other positively?

Join us in what should be a thought-provoking evening which will encourage open dialogue and debate

• 6pm – Drinks reception
• 6:30 – Welcome – indigenous people and tourism – Mark Watson
• 6:40 – Silent Hopes: Documentary Film About Long Neck Karen People (Padaung) (15:30 mins) 
• 6:55 – FRAMING THE OTHER – When strangers meet in the name of tourism (25mins) (DVD)
• 7:10 – Discussion / observations
• 8pm – Social / networking