Aboriginal Relations – Chelsea Hotel

March 09, 2015

One of our newsletter subscribers, Rod Cunningham, brought to our attention an online ad regarding exclusive accommodation rates for the Aboriginal community, and made this comment “A nice example of how business can be more inclusive and welcoming to Aboriginal Peoples.” So, we decided to find out more about the initiative and the impetus behind it.

chelsea-943407-edited

Ken Hewitt, Sales Manager, and Tracy Ford, Director of Public Relations, Chelsea Hotel, took some time to answer a few questions about the discounted Aboriginal and First Nations Meeting Packages and exclusive room rates (from as low as $125).

When and why did the Chelsea first launch this initiative? The Chelsea recognized Aboriginal Peoples as a growth market 22 years ago. Management thought it was important to show our appreciation through recognition and respect for our valued First Nation families. When a First Nation community or organization books a conference or meeting with us, we work together so that the organization and the hotel achieve the desired results; it’s a partnership and a relationship.


How has the uptake been? Having initiatives such as this in place is very much appreciated by our First Nation families and we continue to be recognized as an industry leader. We have expanded the initiative to include an Elders Recognition program, which is much appreciated. Our staff go out of their way to ensure our First Nation guests are at their second home and part of our family.

 

How do you build relationships with First Nation communities? I frequently schedule trips to First Nation communities to show our appreciation and thank them for their business. I also attend conferences, such as the AFN General Assembly.

 

Does the Chelsea have Aboriginal staff? Yes, our Receiver has been with the hotel for over 20 years.

 

What tips can you offer other hotels in regards to creating a welcoming atmosphere for Aboriginal guests and staff? The only advice I can offer to other hotels is to listen to your customers’ needs.

 

So, if your travel plans include Toronto, consider staying at the Chelsea - you never know who you might bump into. We stay there a lot when in Toronto to deliver workshops.Let us know your experience, leave a comment in the box below.

Here's another example of the hospitality industry reaching out to develop welcoming and inclusive environment for Aboriginal guests.

Looking for information on Working Effectively with Aboriginal Peoples®? Here's a free ebook with 23 tips on what not to say or do.

 

Topics: Working Effectively with Indigenous Peoples, Indigenous Relations

  • There are no suggestions because the search field is empty.
Covenant House logo, photo of Trevor Snider - Commemorating a Reconciliation Ally - Donate today!

About this Blog

Let this blog be your guide to Working Effectively with Indigenous Peoples®. We have hundreds of articles loaded with tips, suggestions, videos, and free eBooks for you. Happy reading!

Subscribe to the Indigenous Relations Newsletter

Recent Posts

Indigenous Corporate Training Inc., provides information on this blog for free as a resource for those seeking information about Indigenous Peoples in Canada. Readers looking for more detailed information, or who have questions, can sign up for our fee-for-service training. Also, ICT encourages everyone who reads this information to use their best judgment given their own circumstances, vulnerabilities, and needs, and to contact a consulting or legal professional if you have more specific questions. Join the conversation over on our Linkedin page.