FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Blackfoot Confederacy Announces Kirby Smith as New Director of Siksikaitsitapi Ohkin’niinaiks Society

Mohkinstsis (Calgary, AB) | August 27, 2026 — Blackfoot Confederacy is pleased to announce the appointment of Kirby Smith of Piikani Nation as the new Director of the Siksikaitsitapi Ohkin’niinaiks Society (Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs Society), effective August 26, 2026.

Smith brings eight years of dedicated service with Blackfoot Confederacy to his new leadership role. Throughout his career with the Confederacy, he has served in senior intergovernmental relations and leadership capacities, supporting the Chiefs and the organization in advancing the collective priorities of Siksikaitsitapi.

Most recently serving as Director of Inter-Governmental Relations, Smith has been actively involved in strengthening relationships between Blackfoot Confederacy and governments, municipalities, organizations and other partners. His work has included supporting government-to-government dialogue, advancing Blackfoot priorities through intergovernmental engagement, and representing the Confederacy in important regional and national discussions.

Smith has also played an important role in advancing Blackfoot presence and relationships throughout southern Alberta, including work connected to the Siksikaitsitapi Pow Wow and Princess Pageant and the Confederacy’s relationship-building with municipalities such as the City of Calgary and the Town of Banff.

As Director of the Siksikaitsitapi Ohkin’niinaiks Society, Smith will provide senior operational leadership for the Society and support the implementation of its strategic priorities. The Society brings together the leadership of Kainai, Siksika Nation, Piikani Nation and Amskapi Piikani, working collectively to advance the priorities of Siksikaitsitapi through strategic coordination, advocacy and government relations.

Blackfoot Confederacy leadership recognizes Smith’s extensive experience, knowledge of the organization and longstanding commitment to the collective work of the Confederacy as important strengths as he takes on this new position.

Smith’s appointment represents a continuation of the Confederacy’s commitment to building strong Blackfoot leadership and ensuring that the work of the Siksikaitsitapi Ohkin’niinaiks Society is carried forward with a clear understanding of the priorities, relationships and responsibilities of the four Nations.

Blackfoot Confederacy extends its congratulations to Kirby Smith on his appointment and looks forward to his continued service in advancing the collective priorities and interests of Siksikaitsitapi.

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Media Contact:
Theoren Royal
Corporate Affairs and Communications Manager
Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council
theorenr@blackfootconfederacy.ca