OTTAWA, ON (October 26, 2026) – Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs are in Ottawa today as First Nations leaders meet with Prime Minister Mark Carney and provincial and territorial premiers for the First Nations First Ministers’ Meeting. It is the first gathering of its kind since 2005.

Kainai-Blood Tribe Chief Travis Plaited Hair, Siksika Nation Head Chief Samuel Crowfoot and Piikani Nation Chief Troy Knowlton are attending the gathering to advance priorities that affect Blackfoot people and Blackfoot Territory.

The Chiefs are focused on direct government engagement with Blackfoot Nations on decisions involving lands, resources, jurisdiction and major projects. They are also advancing stronger participation in economic development and ensuring Blackfoot Nations are involved early when projects affect Blackfoot Territory.

Recent discussions around Alberta separation have also reinforced the importance of protecting the political and legal relationship between Blackfoot Nations and the Crown.

Ahead of today’s discussions, Chiefs gathered in Ottawa on October 25 for a Day of Ceremony. Teepees were raised on the lawn behind 111 Sussex Drive. The site is Ottawa’s former city hall and is now owned by the federal government.

Piikani Nation Elder Apamahka, Leonard Weasel Traveller, emceed part of Sunday’s gathering. A former Chief of Piikani Nation, Weasel Traveller has also served in ceremonial roles at Assembly of First Nations gatherings and has provided opening and closing prayers at national AFN meetings. He offered prayer for Chiefs and leaders and continues to support First Nations leadership through ceremony and cultural protocol at the national level.

Assembly of First Nations National Chief Cindy Woodhouse-Nepinak said the ceremonies were intended to bring leaders into the right mindset and help the discussions proceed in a good way.

Today’s discussions bring First Nations leaders together directly with the Prime Minister and provincial and territorial Premiers. The agenda includes rights and Treaties, jurisdiction, economic partnerships, major projects and shared national priorities.

Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs will continue to bring Blackfoot priorities directly to the national table. More information will be shared as discussions continue in Ottawa.