The Siksikaitsitapi Ohkin’niinaiks Society – Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs Society (BCCS) is inviting applications for the position of Director of Siksikaitsitapi Ohkin’niinaiks Society, a full-time, three-year contract based at the Blackfoot Confederacy Calgary Branch Office.

As a nationally recognized Indigenous Representative Organization (IRO), the Society works on behalf of the Blackfoot Confederacy, bringing together the leadership of the Blood Tribe (Kainai), Siksika Nation, Piikani Nation, and the Blackfeet Tribe (Amskapi Piikuni) in Montana. Guided by the Declaration of Siksikaitsitapiwa, the Society advances collective priorities through strategic coordination, advocacy, and government relations.

Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, the Director will provide senior operational leadership and oversee the implementation of the Society’s strategic priorities. Working closely with the CEO and Board of Directors, the successful candidate will ensure Board direction is translated into operational plans while supporting governance, organizational coordination, and the delivery of the Society’s mandate.

The Blackfoot Confederacy is seeking an experienced leader with strong organizational, strategic, and operational management skills who is committed to supporting the collective priorities of the Blackfoot Confederacy.

Interested applicants must submit:

• A cover letter outlining relevant experience and education
• A current resume
• Copies of educational credentials
• A current Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Check (issued within the last six months)
• Three professional references, including names, titles, relationship to the applicant, email addresses, and phone numbers

Applications must be submitted to Admin@blackfootconfederacy.ca. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Application Deadline: Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. MST.

The Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs Society thanks all applicants for their interest. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

OTTAWA, ON, July 15, 2026 – Blackfoot Confederacy and the Iroquois Caucus have signed a landmark resolution titled “To Establish the Relationship Between the Iroquois Caucus and the Blackfoot Confederacy and Create a Joint Economic Implementation Plan.”

Signed in Ottawa on July 15, 2026, the resolution reaffirms the Nation-to-Nation relationship established through the Peace and Recognition Alliance signed on October 11, 2023, and formally commits both Parties to advancing its implementation.

The resolution establishes a Joint Economic Action Committee that will identify opportunities for collaboration, reduce barriers to intertribal trade, and develop a coordinated Economic Action Plan. Representatives from both the Blackfoot Confederacy and the Iroquois Caucus will work together to create implementation strategies and a joint Terms of Reference for approval by their respective leadership.

Priority areas for collaboration include online gaming, exports and trade, tourism, information technology sharing, resource management and negotiations, and the planning of joint events and activities.

The resolution marks the next phase of cooperation between the Blackfoot Confederacy and the Iroquois Caucus, providing a framework to strengthen Indigenous-led economic development and expand long-term Nation-to-Nation partnerships through joint action.

Participating Nations:

The Iroquois Caucus is represented by Onʌyota’a:ka’ (Oneida Nation of the Thames), Oswé:gęˀ (Six Nations of the Grand River), Wahta, Akwesásne, Kanehsatà:ke, and Kahnawà:ke Mohawk Territory.

The Blackfoot Confederacy is represented by Kainai (Blood Tribe), Siksika Nation, Piikani Nation, and Amskapi Piikani (Blackfeet Nation).

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Media Contact:  

Theoren Royal, Communications Blackfoot Confederacy

Theorenr@Blackfootconfederacy.ca

MOHKINSTSIS (Calgary, AB) | July 11, 2026 — The Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs’ Society met with Prime Minister Mark Carney on July 11 in Mohkinstsis to discuss issues of national importance, including Alberta separation, major infrastructure development, Treaty implementation, and economic opportunities for First Nations.

Chief Troy Knowlton, Chief of Piikani Nation and President of the Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs’ Society, reaffirmed that Treaty First Nations must be recognized as governments and Treaty partners in decisions affecting their lands, waters, resources, and rights. Discussions focused on the implementation of the Building Canada Act (Bill C-5), proposed national energy and infrastructure corridors, and the need for meaningful consultation and the free, prior, and informed consent of First Nations.

Blackfoot leadership emphasized that First Nations support responsible economic development but expect to participate in decision-making and receive a fair share of the economic benefits generated from projects within Treaty territories. Leadership also called for discussions with Canada on resource revenue sharing and compensatory negotiations related to the 1930 Natural Resources Transfer Agreement, noting that Treaty First Nations have yet to benefit equitably from decades of resource development on their traditional lands.

The meeting also addressed Alberta’s separation discussions and the importance of protecting Treaty rights and the constitutional relationship between First Nations and the Crown. Blackfoot leadership called for direct representation at the upcoming First Ministers’ Meeting, emphasizing that Treaty Nations must speak for themselves in decisions that shape Canada’s future.

Siksika Nation Chief Samuel Crowfoot also met with Prime Minister Carney to discuss the proposed national energy corridor and reaffirmed that Siksika Nation expects full government-to-government engagement on any project affecting its lands, waters, or Treaty rights. Discussions also included opportunities for First Nations ownership, equity participation, and long-term economic partnership in major infrastructure projects.

“Siksika Nation is open to partnership, responsible development, and economic opportunity,” said Chief Samuel Crowfoot. “Our participation must be founded on respect for Treaty, meaningful consultation, and recognition of our role as a government and Treaty partner.”

Chief Travis Plaited Hair of Kainai-Blood Tribe emphasized the need to accelerate the resolution of outstanding land claims, noting that lengthy delays continue to create significant costs for First Nations and hinder economic certainty, community development, and the fulfillment of Canada’s Treaty obligations.

Leadership from Treaty 6 and Treaty 8 First Nations also participated in the meeting, reflecting a united commitment to protecting Treaty rights and advancing First Nations’ interests. Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council Chief Executive Officer Kimmy Shade and Travis Plaited Hair Chief of Kainai-Blood Tribe were also in attendance.

The meeting reinforced the importance of continued government-to-government dialogue and the need for Treaty First Nations to be full partners in decisions affecting economic development, major infrastructure, and the implementation of Treaty rights across Canada.

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Photos: File photo courtesy of Siksika Nation Administration (Siksikanation.com); Kimmy Shade

Pictured (left to right): Chief Samuel Crowfoot, Siksika Nation; The Right Honourable Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada; Chief Troy Knowlton, Piikani Nation; Kimmy Shade, Chief Executive Officer, Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council; Travis Plaited Hair Chief, Kainai-Blood Tribe.

With files from Siksikanation.com

Media Contact:

Theoren Royal, Corporate Affairs and Communications
Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council
theorenr@blackfootconfederacy.ca

The countdown is on for one of Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council’s favourite summer traditions.

On Wednesday, July 8, 2026, community members, families, partners, and friends are invited to gather in Mohkinstsis (Calgary) for the Annual Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council Stampede BBQ. This free community event is an opportunity to come together in celebration of Niitsitapi culture, leadership, and community while kicking off the summer season.

Guests will hear remarks from the Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs, enjoy live entertainment by Rudy Strangling Wolf (Kainai-Blood Tribe), and learn more about the programs, initiatives, and work taking place across Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council. Whether you are reconnecting with family, meeting new faces, or learning more about the Confederacy, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

Each year, the Stampede BBQ brings together community members, leadership, organizations, and supporters in a welcoming and family friendly atmosphere. It is a chance to celebrate our shared connections, strengthen relationships, and showcase the ongoing work being carried out on behalf of the Niitsitapi.

Admission is free and everyone is welcome to attend.

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, July 8, 2026
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location: Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council Calgary Branch Office
7535 Flint Road SE, Calgary, Alberta

We encourage everyone to join us for an afternoon of great food, entertainment, and community as we celebrate together during Stampede week.

Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council recognizes and thanks Carol Mason for her leadership, service, and commitment to the Confederacy as she concludes her time with the organization.

During her tenure, including her service as Interim Chief Executive Officer, Carol provided steady leadership during a significant period of growth and advocacy for the Confederacy. Working alongside the Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs Society, Executive Leadership, and staff, she helped advance strategic priorities while strengthening the Confederacy’s presence in political, governmental, and intergovernmental forums.

Throughout her leadership, the Confederacy continued to advance key initiatives that reflected the priorities of the Siksikaitsitapi. This included engagement with all orders of government, advocacy on matters affecting Treaty rights and inherent rights, participation in international discussions through the Jay Treaty Border Alliance, and coordinated communications that elevated the voice of the Blackfoot Confederacy across Canada and internationally.

Carol’s leadership was grounded in accountability, collaboration, and a clear understanding of the importance of presenting a unified Blackfoot voice. She worked closely with the Chiefs, leadership, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and staff to support the Confederacy’s mandate and to ensure that decisions and advocacy remained rooted in the interests of the Blackfoot people.

Beyond organizational leadership, Carol was instrumental in strengthening internal capacity and empowering staff to represent the Confederacy with professionalism and confidence. Her guidance helped build a collaborative team that continues to support the work of the Confederacy across communications, governance, policy, and strategic initiatives.

“The Blackfoot Confederacy continues to grow because of the people who dedicate themselves to this work,” said Chief Executive Officer Kimmy Shade. “Carol’s leadership, experience, and commitment have contributed to strengthening our organization and advancing the priorities of our Chiefs and Nations. We thank her for her service and wish her success as she begins the next chapter of her journey.”

The Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council extends its appreciation to Carol Mason for her contributions and wishes her continued success. Her work has helped strengthen the Confederacy’s organizational foundation and further the collective vision of the Siksikaitsitapi as the Confederacy continues to advance the rights, interests, and future of Blackfoot people.

The Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs and representatives of the Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council met with newly elected Mayor Jeremy Farkas at Calgary City Hall on June 1, 2026, reaffirming the strong and growing relationship between the Blackfoot Confederacy and the City of Calgary.

The meeting served as an opportunity to build relationships with Mayor Farkas and discuss the ongoing work being advanced through the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between the Blackfoot Confederacy and the City of Calgary in May 2025. Conversations focused on shared priorities, current areas of collaboration, and opportunities to continue strengthening the government-to-government relationship in the years ahead.

The gathering began in a good way with an opening prayer by Elder Leonard Weasel Traveller, setting a positive tone for the discussions that followed. Also in attendance were Former Chief and Elder Charles Weasel Head, Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council staff Kimmy Shade, Carol Mason, Kirby Smith, and Theoren Royal, alongside City of Calgary Ward 3 Councillor Andrew Yule, Kelly Cote, Manager of Government Relations, and members of City Administration.

Throughout the meeting, leaders reflected on the progress made since the signing of the MOU and acknowledged the collaborative efforts of Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council and City of Calgary staff who continue to meet regularly to advance the priorities identified through the agreement. Discussions highlighted the importance of maintaining momentum and building upon the work already underway through the four foundational areas of cooperation: Economic Development and Tourism, Housing and Homelessness, Arts and Culture, and Events and Communications.

The Chiefs noted the importance of continuing the positive relationship that has been built with the City of Calgary over many years, including under the leadership of former mayors Jyoti Gondek and Naheed Nenshi. Mayor Farkas expressed his commitment to continuing that relationship and working collaboratively with the Blackfoot Confederacy on matters of shared interest and mutual benefit.

The meeting reflected a common commitment to respectful dialogue, collaboration, and long-term partnership. As the City of Calgary and the Blackfoot Confederacy continue to strengthen their relationship, both parties remain focused on creating opportunities that support communities, celebrate Blackfoot presence and history within the region, and advance shared goals for future generations.

The Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs and Tribal Council look forward to continued engagement with Mayor Farkas, City Council, and Administration as the partnership continues to grow and evolve.

On the heels of the beginning of National Indigenous History Month, it is unfortunate that we must issue a message focused on safety and vigilance. This month is a time to celebrate our cultures, languages, histories, and the strength of our Nations. However, recent events and rising political tensions across Alberta have prompted concerns regarding the safety and well-being of Indigenous peoples, including members of the Blackfoot Confederacy.

The Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs and leadership are encouraging all members, whether residing on-reserve, off-reserve, studying, working, travelling, or visiting within Alberta and Montana, to remain aware of their surroundings and take appropriate precautions should they encounter harassment, threats, discrimination, or suspicious activity.

Recent incidents and public reports involving anti-Indigenous rhetoric and politically motivated harassment have reinforced the importance of community awareness and preparedness. While many Albertans continue to demonstrate respect and support for Indigenous Peoples, members are encouraged to remain vigilant and report concerning behaviour when it occurs.

What To Do In An Emergency

If you are in immediate danger, witness a crime in progress, observe a weapon being displayed, hear gunfire, or feel threatened for your personal safety, call 911 immediately. Emergency dispatchers can identify and direct the closest available police resources to your location.

Reporting Non-Emergency Incidents

If you experience or witness harassment, hate-related incidents, property damage, suspicious activity, or receive threatening messages that do not require an immediate emergency response, report the incident to your local police service, Indigenous police service, or RCMP detachment.

For incidents occurring within Alberta RCMP jurisdictions, call 310-RCMP (7267) to be connected with the appropriate detachment.

For members on Kainai Nation, contact:

• Blood Tribe Police Service: (403) 737-8800

For incidents occurring within city limits, contact:

• Calgary Police Service: 403-266-1234
• Edmonton Police Service: 780-423-4567
• Lethbridge Police Service: 403-328-4444
• Medicine Hat Police Service: 403-529-8400

Members travelling throughout Alberta can locate the appropriate RCMP detachment through the RCMP Alberta Detachment Directory.

Documenting Threats and Harassment

Proper documentation is one of the most effective ways to support investigations and ensure incidents are taken seriously.

If you receive threatening messages or encounter hate-related content:

• Take screenshots of social media posts, messages, comments, or emails.
• Record dates, times, usernames, and any identifying details.
• Save text messages and voicemails.
• Keep a written record of incidents, including locations and witnesses when possible.
• Obtain and keep any police file number associated with your report.

Do not engage with individuals making threats or attempting to provoke a response. Preserve evidence and report the matter to police.

Anonymous Reporting

If you wish to remain anonymous, tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

Online Reporting Options

Certain minor, non-urgent incidents may be reported through the Alberta RCMP Online Crime Reporting system or the Alberta RCMP mobile application. Serious incidents, threats, and emergencies should always be reported directly to police.

Community Awareness and Support

The Blackfoot Confederacy has endured many challenges throughout our history. Our strength continues to come from our people, our families, our communities, and our responsibility to look after one another. During periods of heightened public tension, we encourage members to remain informed, exercise caution, support one another, and report incidents when they occur.

If you are travelling, attending public events, participating in gatherings, or spending time away from your home community, consider sharing your travel plans with family members and staying connected with trusted contacts.

The Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs and leadership will continue to monitor developments and share information as required. The safety and well-being of our members remains a priority.

Quick Reference

Emergency: 911

Blood Tribe Police Service: (403) 737-8800

RCMP Non-Emergency (Alberta): 310-RCMP (7267)

Crime Stoppers: 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)

Calgary Police Service: 403-266-1234

Edmonton Police Service: 780-423-4567

Lethbridge Police Service: 403-328-4444

Medicine Hat Police Service: 403-529-8400

We encourage all members to remain vigilant, report concerning incidents, and continue looking out for one another and our communities.

The Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs are welcoming comments made by Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew on May 26, 2026, during the closing press conference of the Western Premiers’ Meeting in Kananaskis, Alberta.

Premier Kinew affirmed that the duty to consult First Nations belongs to government and must be respected when Treaty rights may be affected. His comments followed the recent Alberta Court of King’s Bench decision regarding Alberta’s citizen-led independence referendum petition and the requirement for proper consultation with First Nations.

The Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs continue to affirm that First Nations are not stakeholders in these matters. First Nations are Treaty partners with inherent rights, jurisdiction, and responsibilities to the land, water, resources, and future generations.

Any discussion involving Alberta separation, constitutional change, provincial jurisdiction, or the potential creation of an international border must begin with proper consultation with the Chiefs of Treaty 6, Treaty 7, and Treaty 8.

For more information, see attached release below:

The Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs Society will host a Gathering for Treaty and Unity on Sunday, June 14, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Fort Calgary.

The gathering is open to Blackfoot Confederacy members, Treaty Nations, allies, community members, and the public. It will provide a space for people to come together in respect and shared understanding while standing in support of Treaty relationships and unity on Blackfoot Treaty territory.

Hosted by the Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs Society, the event will reaffirm the importance of Treaty, peaceful dialogue, and respectful relationships between all peoples. The gathering also reflects the continued leadership of the Blackfoot Confederacy in protecting Treaty responsibilities and strengthening relationships across communities.

All are welcome to attend.

For Media Contact: Theoren Royal, BFC Comms E: TheorenR@Blackfootconfederacy.ca

The Chiefs of the Blackfoot Confederacy are reaffirming their position on Treaty rights and constitutional obligations following a significant ruling from the Court of King’s Bench that quashed a citizen led petition seeking to advance a referendum on Alberta separation.

In a decision released May 13, 2026, Justice Shaina Leonard ruled that Alberta breached its duty to consult with First Nations and determined that the province’s Chief Electoral Officer should not have issued the separatist petition. The ruling follows legal action brought forward by Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation and the Blackfoot Confederacy, which argued that the referendum process and recent legislative changes enabled a constitutional process to move forward without consultation with Treaty First Nations.

Justice Leonard found there could be “no doubt” that Alberta separation would impact Treaties 7 and 8, confirming what First Nations leadership has consistently maintained throughout the legal challenge: that Alberta separation is not simply a provincial political issue, but one that directly engages Treaty rights, constitutional law, and the Nation-to-Nation relationship between First Nations and the Crown.

The Court further determined that amendments made by Alberta’s government to the citizen initiative process triggered a duty to consult and that no consultation occurred. The decision also concluded that the separatist petition should never have been reissued after an earlier court ruling found the original question unconstitutional.

The ruling builds on an earlier decision issued in April, when the Court granted a stay preventing certification of the petition while the legal applications were being heard. At that time, the Court acknowledged that allowing the process to continue without review presented the risk of ongoing and irreparable harm to Treaty relationships.

For the Blackfoot Confederacy, the latest ruling reinforces what leadership has repeatedly stated in recent months: that Treaty First Nations cannot be excluded from decisions that directly impact their territories, rights, and future. Blackfoot Treaty 7 predates the creation of Alberta and remains a living and binding agreement that continues to guide how these lands are shared and governed.

The Chiefs also pointed to broader concerns surrounding narratives advanced by separatist movements that attempt to diminish or sideline First Nations jurisdiction in discussions about Alberta’s future. Leadership maintains that any process attempting to redefine the constitutional framework of Canada without Treaty First Nations is fundamentally flawed.

The Blackfoot Confederacy continues to stand alongside Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation, Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation, Mikisew Cree First Nation, Tsuut’ina Nation, and Treaty Nations across Alberta who have raised concerns regarding the referendum process and the lack of consultation.

In response to the ruling, the Chiefs of the Blackfoot Confederacy issued the following statement:

Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council participated in an initial meeting with the City of Medicine Hat administration on April 30, 2026 at City offices. This marked the first formal engagement between the Confederacy and the municipality and established a starting point for relationship building and intergovernmental dialogue.

Blackfoot Confederacy Directors and City leadership met to begin discussions focused on shared priorities, coordination, and long term collaboration. Medicine Hat carries a name rooted in Blackfoot language and history, derived from “Saamis,” loosely translated as “medicine man’s hat.” The meeting set a foundation for continued engagement and identified areas where both parties can move forward in a structured and respectful way.

The discussion formed part of a broader objective to work toward a formal Memorandum of Understanding. Both sides identified the fall as a potential timeline for a signing, contingent on the outcomes of ongoing discussions and alignment on key principles.

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Photo: Left to Right, Front to back

Front: Leah Prestayko (Acting Manager Director of Public Services), Genevieve Fox (Director of Education, Culture & Language), Councillor Yusuf Mohammed, Everette Fox, Marla Wolf Leg (Administrative Officer, Intergovernmental Relations), Kellie Grace (Indigenous Relations Coordinator), Xanthe Isbister (Curator of Galleries & Collections), Kimmy Shade (CEO, Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council)

Middle: Councillor Stuart Young, Councillor Cheryl Phaff, Elder – Leonard Weasel Traveller, Aaron Nelson (Acting Director of Community Development), Councillor Chris Hellman, Susan Solway (Housing Initiatives Officer)

Back: Elder Makiinima (Roy Fox), Kirby Smith (Director of Intergovernmental Relations), Chief Travis Plaited Hair (Kainai – Blood Tribe)

“INNAIHTSIIYISINNI – OUR SACRED TREATY’S”

Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council acknowledges all who gathered April 21–22, 2026, in Sikóóhkotok for the Third Annual Justice Symposium. Elders, youth, leadership, presenters, and community members came together in a unified space grounded in Blackfoot ways of knowing, responsibility, and law. The presence of all four Nations reaffirmed a collective commitment to carry forward what has always guided Niitsitapi.

The symposium opened in a good way with prayer and direction from Elders, followed by remarks from Chiefs, Chairman, and CEO, establishing a clear focus on Blackfoot jurisdiction and the responsibility to uphold what was given to the people. The Elders Panel carried forward lived knowledge and history, providing grounding through the voices of Leonard Weasel Traveler, Herman Yellow Old Woman, John Murray, and Martin Heavy Head. Across both days, presentations from community justice leaders, legal professionals, and invited speakers reflected the strength and growth of Blackfoot-led justice approaches within and beyond existing systems.

A highlight of the gathering was the evening youth showcase, where young people entered in a grand entry and were honoured for who they are and what they carry. This recognition reflects continuity, ensuring that what is being built today remains rooted in identity, language, and responsibility for future generations.

Day Two continued with strong contributions from across the Confederacy, including community justice presentations, discussions on enforcement and legal processes, consultation, and reintegration pathways. Conversations remained focused on strengthening Blackfoot authority, supporting community-driven solutions, and advancing systems that reflect Niitsitapi values.

Acknowledgement is extended to the Masters of Ceremonies, Eldon Weasel Child and Tony Delaney, whose leadership carried the gathering throughout both days. Recognition is also extended to all Elder Helpers, staff, presenters, and participants for another successful year!