Cherokee Nation is Tribal Destination of the Year

Cherokee Nation selected as Tribal Destination of the YearThe Cherokee Nation was awarded Tribal Destination of the Year by the American Indian and Alaska Native Tourism Association, according to a media release.

The award was presented during the inaugural Soaring Stars & Infinite Skies Silent Auction and Awards Ceremony on Sept. 25 in Billings, Mont.

“The achievements of the Cherokee Nation are based on its cultural, historical, natural and recreational resources. Our success further strengthens Oklahoma as a top tourist destination in the nation and provides a much-needed economic benefit to communities throughout the state,” said Bill John Baker, principal chief of the Cherokee Nation. “Native American heritage and culture continue to be an asset for Oklahoma and we are honored to take the lead in sharing our history.”

The Cherokee Nation tourism program was created in 2007 to help preserve and promote Cherokee history and culture. The endeavor has formed one of the most authentic and comprehensive Native American programs within the United States. The Cherokee Nation offers cultural tours and events and operates museums, historic sites, gift shops and welcome centers, all supported by a one-of-a-kind interpretive program that shares a global Cherokee story.Comment:  For more on Cherokee tourism, see Cherokees Debut Prison Museum and Cherokee "History After Dark."

Below:  "William Lowe, board member for AIANTA, presents Molly Jarvis, vice president of Cherokee Nation Cultural Tourism, with the award that recognizes the tribe for promoting Cherokee history and culture through its tourism efforts."