The Siksikaitsitapi Ohkin’ninaiiks (Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs), representing the Kainai Blood Tribe, Piikani, Siksika, and Aamsskaapipikani Nations, stands firm in protecting Blackfoot Territory and the sovereignty of our Nations. The Chiefs are calling on the Governments of Canada and Alberta to stop supporting Métis-led initiatives taking place within our lands, the Blackfoot Treaty Territory.

Our Nations have always protected and cared for this land, and we continue to do so today. The Chiefs say recent actions by Métis Associations, including Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs), flag raisings, and naming projects, are being used to create the appearance of rights and authority within Blackfoot Territory. These actions disregard the R. v. Hirsekorn decision, which confirmed there were no historic Métis communities in southern Alberta and no harvesting rights or Aboriginal title here.

The Blackfoot Confederacy is calling for an immediate suspension of these Métis-led activities and for governments to recognize the Blackfoot as the original and rightful stewards of this land. True reconciliation begins with respecting Blackfoot law, governance, and consent, not through policies that erase or sidestep our authority.

Our Chiefs reaffirm that the Blackfoot people have never given up our responsibility to protect Niitsitapi Territory. We invite all who understand and respect this truth to stand with us as we continue to defend our lands and uphold the strength and dignity of the Blackfoot Confederacy.

Read the full statement here: