Robert Perry with Lona Barrick, Executive Officer for the Chickasaw Nation Cultural Tourism
THE SHOALS-Who would believe that tourists would be coming to Alabama to visit Native American tribes? The 1830 Indian Removal Act resulted in just that (removal) and not until 1984 was the Alabama Poarch Creek recognized as a tribe. Year 2014 started with a plan for development of Tuscumbia Landing, as part of the national historic Trail of Tears. The Sheffield Port Authority proposed an All-Tribes Welcome Center for 565 federally-recognized tribes, an idea called “a noble undertaking” by Cherokee Chief Baker (OK). Instead of a huge building for all tribes, each tribe will have a special day.
The Cherokee let us know that President Obama’s plan was to connect 565 tribes to the World. Thus, the American Indian Alaskan Native Tourist Association (AIANTA) was formed. Robert & Annie Perry of Tuscumbia attended their convention last week at the Tunica-Biloxi Casino in Louisiana. It was mind-boggling to hear the plan to bring 100 million tourists to America by the end of 2021, spending $250 Billion a year. Last year, 1.1 million foreign tourists stayed 31 days and spent 4,500 on average. Tourism accounts for 3% of the US GNP.
International Trade Association tracks characteristics which excites Indian Country. Last year about 25% of the tourists came to small towns to learn about the history and ethnic heritage at an art gallery or museum or by guided tours. From this segment, 50-65% traveled to Indian Country. Up until now, Alabama wasn’t a target for tourists seeking Indians.
Even though Tuscumbia Landing is just beginning to update utilities and install surveillance, the concept of the All-Tribes Welcome Center was well received. The principal chiefs of the Houma and Chitimacha tribes want to be a part. These sophisticated tribes are members of USET (United 
Southern & Eastern Tribes) and NCAI (National Congress of American Indians). They have survived their “Trail of Tears.” The Wordcraft Circle of Native Writers & Storytellers will put a storyteller twist to the survival story. Other tribes will be invited to tell their story. We look forward to the day that the gates are opened to the public.
Robert Perry, Port Authority & Chickasaw Elder
PHOTOS BY ANNIE PERRY
