Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs Reject Bill 54 and Reassert Treaty Sovereignty

On May 1, 2025, the Chiefs of the Siksikaitsitapi (Blackfoot Confederacy)—representing the Nations of Siksika, Kainai, Piikani, and Aamskapi Piikani—formally denounced Alberta’s proposed Bill 54, the Citizen-Led Referendum Act. They stated that the bill is incompatible with the Canadian constitutional framework and undermines the legal obligations established through foundational treaty agreements. The Chiefs emphasized that the 1877 Blackfoot Treaty 7, alongside Treaties 6 (1876) and 8 (1899), was negotiated as a nation-to-nation agreement grounded in mutual recognition, peaceful coexistence, and shared stewardship of territory. These treaties were not instruments of land surrender and remain binding legal frameworks within Canada’s constitutional structure.

The Chiefs reaffirmed that Blackfoot sovereignty predates Alberta’s entry into Confederation and is anchored in Nitsitapii natural law, further reinforced by the 1855 Lame Bull Treaty. This sovereignty extends across the imposed Canada-U.S. border, encompassing traditional territories in both Alberta and Montana. As such, the Chiefs argued that provincial referendums—especially those addressing constitutional questions such as separation—lack the jurisdiction to alter, override, or reinterpret treaty rights, which are protected under both domestic and international law.

Today, the Siksikaitsitapi Confederacy governs over 25,000 members and exercises stewardship over approximately 2,500 square kilometers of land in southern Alberta. This governance is enacted through Indigenous legal orders transmitted through generations and remains active in areas including land management, cultural revitalization, and intergovernmental relations. The Confederacy’s responsibilities are grounded in ancestral law and actively uphold Blackfoot nationhood.

The Chiefs called on Premier Danielle Smith to withdraw Bill 54 and redirect provincial focus toward treaty education, reconciliation, and the fulfillment of Alberta’s constitutional and legal obligations to First Nations. They concluded by affirming that the Blackfoot Treaty remains a living, sacred covenant that must continue to guide relationships between governments – “as long as the sun shines, the grass grows, and the rivers flow.”

The full statement can be read here:

The Blackfoot Confederacy successfully hosted the Assembly of Treaty Chiefs (AOTC) Spring Sitting on April 8 and 9, 2025, at the Westin Airport Hotel in Calgary, Alberta. This strategic gathering convened leaders from Treaty 6, 7, and 8 Nations to enhance collaboration and address critical issues surrounding Inherent and Treaty Rights, land management, and the impacts of government decisions. Building on the Unity Declaration from 2021, the assembly focused on key reforms aimed at improving equitable representation and communication among the Nations, ensuring their voices are integral to decision-making processes.

The agenda included comprehensive updates on previous resolutions, discussions on the AOTC reform paper, and presentations from notable leaders, including Chief Ouray Crowfoot and representatives from the Jay Border Treaty Alliance and G7 World Leadership Summit. These deliberations reaffirmed the assembly’s commitment to advancing the rights and interests of Indigenous communities, positioning them for greater influence in future engagements with governmental bodies. The outcomes from this assembly are set to significantly enhance the empowerment and sovereignty of the Treaty Nations as they navigate critical challenges ahead.

Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council is pleased to announce the 2025 Indigenous Early Learning & Child Care (IELCC) Symposium, taking place on May 22-23, 2025, at Deerfoot Inn & Casino in Mohkinstsis (Calgary, AB).

The Symposium is open to the Early Learning Community, including frontline workers, parents, managers/directors, and leadership. This event will provide valuable insights, workshops, and opportunities for networking and collaboration.

Theme: IIYOTKANONTTATTAAM AWAAAPISWA KOKOSINNONIKS – Our Children Are Precious

Registration is now open!

  • For all symposium attendees please complete the registration via the link below
  • Vendors and Information Booth Inquiries: Please do not fill out registration form as your entry will be removed. For all inquiries related to vendors or information booths please contact Sheila Fox via email at: Sheila.sinopaacss@gmail.com

Dates: Thursday, May 22 and Friday, May 23, 2025
Location: Deerfoot Inn & Casino, Calgary, Alberta

This symposium will convene Elders, educators, knowledge keepers, policymakers, and community advocates to engage in critical discussions, foster collaborative partnerships, and explore innovative solutions informed by traditional Blackfoot knowledge and contemporary Indigenous frameworks. The event will be hosted by Master of Ceremonies, Natoyi’sokasiim, Lowa Beebe.

Symposium Highlights

  • Opening Ceremony: Welcoming remarks from the Chiefs of the Blackfoot Confederacy and Interim CEO Carol Mason
  • Keynote Presentations: Focused discussions on kinship networks, cognitive and socio-emotional development in early learning, community resilience, food sovereignty, and Indigenous governance, featuring:
    • Otahksikinakim, Wilton Good Striker – Blackfoot Knowledge Keeper, Kainai-Blood Tribe
    • Mariah Gladstone – Founder of Indigikitchen and advocate for Indigenous food systems and health sovereignty, Amskapi Piikani
    • Dr. Deborah Pace, PhD, RPsych – Educator and Psychologist, Kainai-Blood Tribe
    • Miranda Bernard – Specialist in Mi’kmaw early learning and childcare governance, Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey, Eskasoni First Nation
    • Tsapinaaki, Dr. Gabrielle Weasel Head, PhD – Associate Professor of Indigenous Studies, Mount Royal University, Kainai-Blood Tribe
  • Kaahsinnooniks (Historians) Think Tank: A panel discussion featuring Siksika, Kainai, Piikani and Amskapi Pikuni Knowledge Holders on applying historical knowledge to address contemporary and future challenges
  • National Policy Panels: Expert discussions featuring representatives from the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), Indigenous Services Canada (ISC), and other organizations advancing Indigenous childcare policy
  • Community Engagement Opportunities: Youth Talent Showcase, evening reception, meal services, and numerous networking sessions

Grounded in Siksikaitsitapi values and cultural protocols, the IELCC Symposium 2025 seeks to strengthen Indigenous early learning systems through informed dialogue, collective action, and a lasting commitment to intergenerational resilience and well-being.

Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council will host the Assembly of Treaty Chiefs (AOTC) Spring Sitting for 2025 on April 08-09,2025 at the Westin Calgary Airport Hotel in Mohkinstsis (Calgary, Alberta)

Online Registration is now closed for the Assembly of Treaty Chiefs (AOTC) Spring Sitting for 2025 on April 08-09,2025 at the Westin Calgary Airport Hotel in Mohkinstsis (Calgary, Alberta) – please visit the attached event page below for more details. For registration inquiries please email: Admin@Blackfootconfederacy.ca

Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council is pleased to announce the 2025 Indigenous Early Learning & Child Care (IELCC) Symposium, taking place on May 22-23, 2025, at Deerfoot Inn & Casino in Mohkinstsis (Calgary, AB).

The Symposium is open to the Early Learning Community, including frontline workers, parents, managers/directors, and leadership. This event will provide valuable insights, workshops, and opportunities for networking and collaboration.

Theme: IIYOTKANONTTATTAAM AWAAAPISWA KOKOSINNONIKS – Our Children Are Precious

Full Symposium details and registration information will be released soon. For more information, please contact:

Phone: 587.287.1100

Email: Info@Blackfootconfederacy.ca

Appointment of Charles (Charlie) Weaselhead Jr. (Taatsiikiipoyii) as Health Advisor/Director

The Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council is pleased to announce the appointment of Charles (Charlie) Weaselhead Jr. (Taatsiikiipoyii) as Health Advisor/Director. A respected leader from the Kainai-Blood Tribe, Mr. Weaselhead brings over forty years of experience in health governance, administration, and policy. His appointment aligns with the priorities of the Siksikaitsitapi (Blackfoot Confederacy) and contributes to advancing the health and well-being of the Blackfoot Nations.

Throughout his career, Mr. Weaselhead has held leadership positions at Napi Lodge and Poundmaker’s Lodge treatment centers, the Blood Indian Hospital, and as Chief Executive Officer of the Blood Tribe Department of Health. As Chief of the Blood Tribe (2004–2016), he worked to advance First Nations health at both regional and national levels. His service as Chancellor of the University of Lethbridge from 2019–2023 strengthened his commitment to Indigenous leadership, education, and the well-being of the Niitsitapi and surrounding communities.

As Health Advisor/Director, Mr. Weaselhead will guide the Blackfoot Confederacy Nations with a focus on culturally relevant health governance and community-led initiatives. He will also support efforts to address the systemic priorities of the Siksikaitsitapi. His expertise will help develop sustainable frameworks that align with the health needs of the Blackfoot Nations.

The Tribal Council recognizes Mr. Weaselhead’s knowledge and leadership in health governance. His appointment reinforces the Council’s commitment to developing practical, culturally grounded solutions that serve the health needs of current and future generations of Blackfoot people.

2025 Blackfoot Confederacy Youth Gathering

Oki,

The Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council invites Blackfoot youth to gather for the 2025 Blackfoot Confederacy Youth Gathering on Monday, February 17, 2025, from 9:00am – 4:00pm at Red Crow Community College, Kainai-Blood Tribe. This event is an opportunity to strengthen connections, hear from Blackfoot leaders, and take part in discussions on leadership, culture, and future opportunities. It marks the first in a series of annual youth gatherings rotating among Blackfoot Nations.

Keynote Speaker: Robert L. Doore, MBA

The Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council is pleased to welcome Robert L. Doore as this year’s keynote speaker. A respected member of the Blackfeet Nation, Mr. Doore has built a career in corporate leadership, professional sports, and Indigenous economic development, becoming the highest-ranking Native American in the NFL since Jim Thorpe. As President & CEO of Chief Mountain Sports and Consulting, he has worked to advance Indigenous representation in business, governance, and community investment. His insights on leadership, career development, and strategic growth will offer valuable knowledge for Blackfoot youth preparing for their futures.

Traditional Games Session – Good Movement

Good Movement – Traditional Games Session will be led by Tyler Strikes With a Gun (SWAG), Ty Provost, and Jason Plain Eagle. Good Movement, an award-nominated health and wellness company, promotes fitness, sport, nutrition, and traditional teachings as a way to build strength and resilience. Youth will have the opportunity to learn and play traditional Blackfoot games, including Run and Scream, Double Ball, Hoop and Arrow, and Hoop and Stick.

Event Schedule Highlights

  • Morning: Pipe Ceremony, Chiefs’ Address, and Youth Panel Discussion
  • Afternoon: Keynote Address by Robert Doore and Traditional Games Session

There will be many door prizes and promotional items for registrants, including Apple AirPods, Apple and Amazon gift cards, Visa gift cards, and more. Information booths from across the Blackfoot Confederacy will also be available to connect youth with programs and opportunities.

For registration, infotmation booth opportunities, or further inquiries, contact Travis Yellow Wings at TravisY@blackfootconfederacy.ca or visit www.blackfootconfederacy.ca.

March 06-07,2025 | The Westin Calgary Airport “Poomi’kapii – Maintaining Order
and Balance in Our Community”

Join us for the 2nd Annual Blackfoot Confederacy Justice Symposium, exploring Poomi’kapii: Maintaining Order and Balance in Our Community. Engage with Blackfoot Traditional Leaders, knowledge keepers, and distinguished speakers as they share valuable insights on justice, Indigenous law, and community harmony.

*Registration is now full

https://forms.office.com/r/NF3Q5rRPE8

The Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council will host the 2025 Blackfoot Confederacy Youth Gathering on Monday, February 17, 2025, at Red Crow Community College in Standoff, Alberta on the Kainai-Blood Tribe.

The theme for this year’s gathering is Aasitapiiksi Aipoyiyaa (Young People Talking), emphasizing the importance of providing Blackfoot youth with an opportunity to engage in critical dialogue on issues affecting their communities.

The Blackfoot Confederacy Youth Conference Working Group was established in October 2023 to align on objectives, identify challenges, and explore opportunities for collaboration in the development of an ongoing Blackfoot Confederacy Youth Conference. This group ensures Blackfoot youth have a formal platform to engage with the Tribal Council.

Since its creation, the group has facilitated discussions involving youth and community leaders from the four Blackfoot Nations, focusing on key issues such as health—past, present, and future.

The 2025 gathering will serve as the inaugural event in a series of annual Blackfoot Confederacy Youth Conferences, rotating among the Blackfoot Nations in subsequent years.

This year’s agenda will include keynote addresses, presentations from Blackfoot Confederacy leaders, youth panel discussions, and networking opportunities.

Registration is open to all who wish to attend, with priority given to Blackfoot youth. Further details, including keynote speaker information, will be provided in the coming days.

For additional information, to register, or to inquire about booth opportunities, please contact:

Travis Yellow Wings, Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council

E-mail: TravisY@blackfootconfederacy.ca

Oki Siksikaitsitapi, 

We invite members of the Blackfoot Confederacy Nations (Siksika, Kainai-Blood Tribe, Piikani, and Amskapi Pikuni Blackfeet, both on and off reserve) to share their experiences crossing the Canada-USA border through a brief survey. 

  • The survey, which takes less than 2 minutes to complete, includes 15 questions addressing issues like harassment, fear of crossing, and other border-related concerns. All responses are confidential and will help the Confederacy advocate for improved border-crossing experiences for its members.  
  • Survey Incentive: Participants can enter a draw for 3 grand prizes including one (1) $500CAD Visa Giftcard, and two (2) $250CAD Visa gift cards by providing their first name and contact information (email or phone) at the end of the Survey. 
  • If completing the survey on behalf of an elder or someone needing assistance, please indicate this. The survey will remain open until the number of applicants from each Blackfoot Confederacy Nations are met. 
  • We are anticipating to have our goal met by the end of February 2025 or sooner. 

Please complete the survey via the link below or scanning the QR Code provided in this post.

For assistance with the survey or to complete it by phone, please contact: 

Theoren Royal, BCTC Communications Manager

  • Email: Theorenr@blackfootconfederacy.ca 
  • Phone: 587.287.1100 

Thank you for your input

The Blackfoot Confederacy, through the Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council (BCTC), is launching a comprehensive feasibility study to explore the potential transformation of Waterton Springs Campground into a premier Blackfoot eco-cultural destination. This initiative underscores the Confederacy’s ongoing commitment to preserving the land while offering enriched cultural experiences for both community members and visitors. The project is designed to deliver sustainable long-term benefits- social, environmental, economic, and cultural, to all four Blackfoot nations, with a particular focus on Blackfoot traditions and the expanding Indigenous Tourism sector.

Active engagement with Confederacy members is crucial to the success of this initiative. By gathering insights and feedback, BCTC ensures that the project reflects the collective goals, knowledge, and values of the four nations. The feasibility study serves as the foundation for evaluating the potential for ownership and revitalization of the campground.

At this preliminary stage the project remains conceptual, and no final decisions have been made regarding development plans or timelines.

To guide our way forward, four local Community Liaisons from each of our Nations will be embracing any and every kind of contribution and feedback from our community members, hearing ideas and perspectives through coffee chats and the online survey.

Our Community Liaisons are:

  • Heather Black – Kainai-Blood Tribe
  • Jamie Spring Chief – Siksika Nation
  • Lailani Upham – Aamskapi-Pikuni
  • Leilani McDougall – Piikani Nation

An online survey has also been developed to ensure broad participation and engagement within the community. Members are strongly encouraged to contribute their ideas and perspectives by completing the survey or participating in interviews. This will ensure that the recommendations align with the collective vision and priorities of the Siksikaitsitapi Nations.

If you are a community member in the region, you can become involved by sharing your insights via a brief survey which can be found here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BCTC-Campground


Contact and Media:

Theoren Royal,
Corporate Affairs and Communications Manager
Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council
Email: Theorenr@blackfootconfederacy.ca


Kimmy Houle,
Director of Environment, Lands, and Economic Development
Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council
E-mail: Kimmys@blackfootconfederacy.ca

To members of the Blackfoot Confederacy,

It has been my greatest honour to lead an organization built on the wisdom, unity, and resilience of the Blackfoot People. Today I am announcing my departure as the Founding Chief Executive Officer of the Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council and the Siksikaitsitapi Oh’Kininaiiks (Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs) Society.

Over the past seven years it has been a privilege to build the Blackfoot Confederacy, and I am deeply grateful for the trust you placed in me to guide this important work. From our first steps, we built an organization rooted in our Siksikaitsitapi Culture and way of life, with staff representing each of the Blackfoot Nations as leaders, experts, and changemakers. I am proud of our team and the work we’ve done to honour our traditions and fulfill our vision as a united people, advocating for the protection of our Treaty and inherent rights.

Together we have strengthened our foundation with significant milestones: the signing of key Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) that have strengthened our presence in the political, economic, educational, cultural, and social spheres across Canada and the United States. Throughout my time, the Blackfoot Confederacy has proudly served as an ambassador for collaboration among the Blackfoot Nations, bridging gaps and revitalizing our traditional ways. From establishing the Siksikaitsitapi Oh’Kininaiiks Society to actively engaging with governmental leaders, the Blackfoot Confederacy has been a unifying force determined to support and improve the well-being of our Blackfoot communities.

As I step forward onto a new path, I leave with immense pride in what we have achieved as a unified Blackfoot Confederacy. I am confident that the Blackfoot Confederacy will continue to grow, strengthening our sovereignty and enriching the lives of our people throughout Blackfoot Territory.

I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all members of the Blackfoot Confederacy for your support. It has been my honour to lead the Blackfoot Confederacy to this point and I leave knowing that we have made a lasting impact. I hope you take as much pride in our shared achievements as I do.  We serve the Creator, who places us where we are meant to be, and I am thankful for this journey to serve the Blackfoot People. 

ISSKOOKITSMAH

Jack Royal