Mohkinstsis (Calgary), AB — October 15, 2026 — Blackfoot Confederacy is calling on Alberta Minister of Indigenous Relations Rajan Sawhney and the Treaty 7 First Nations Chiefs’ Association to immediately correct public materials that misrepresent the political representation of the Siksika Nation, Kainai Blood Tribe and Piikani Nation. The Blackfoot Confederacy Nations formally withdrew from the Treaty 7 First Nations Chiefs’ Association effective March 4, 2024, and that withdrawal was acknowledged in writing by the organization on March 15, 2024.

The Government of Alberta was also formally notified of this change in 2024 through official correspondence sent by email and signed by the Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs. Alberta was therefore made aware at that time that the Treaty 7 First Nations Chiefs’ Association no longer represented the Siksika Nation, Kainai Blood Tribe or Piikani Nation. That change has also been reflected in subsequent government to government work, including existing agreements, working tables and direct engagement structures involving Blackfoot Confederacy and the Government of Alberta.

Despite that history, the September 2026 ReconciliAction: Minister’s Newsletter issued by Alberta Indigenous Relations directs readers to the Treaty 7 First Nations Chiefs’ Association as a resource for information recognizing the signing of Treaty No. 7. The newsletter correctly identifies the Blackfoot Nations, Tsuut’ina Nation, Stoney Nakoda Nations and the Crown as Treaty partners, but then directs readers to the Treaty 7 First Nations Chiefs’ Association “About Us” page. The Minister’s newsletter is publicly available at: https://open.alberta.ca/publications/reconciliaction-ministers-newsletter

The Treaty 7 First Nations Chiefs’ Association “About Us” page states that the organization serves as the political entity for Bearspaw, Chiniki, Wesley, Blood Tribe, Piikani Nation, Siksika Nation and Tsuut’ina Nation and collectively advocates for their rights and needs. The page is available at: https://www.treaty7.org/about

That statement is false and misleading as it relates to the Blood Tribe, Piikani Nation and Siksika Nation. The Treaty 7 First Nations Chiefs’ Association does not represent or speak on behalf of the three Blackfoot Treaty 7 Nations. The Siksikaitsitapi Ohkin’niinaiks Society, incorporated in 2022, represents the three Blackfoot Treaty 7 Nations together with Amskapi Piikani as a collective political voice and entity for Blackfoot Confederacy.

This is particularly concerning because the information is being circulated through an official communication from Alberta’s Minister of Indigenous Relations and through a government publication with broad public reach. It may already have reached thousands of recipients who rely on the Minister and Government of Alberta for accurate information about Indigenous Nations, Treaty relationships and political representation. Directing the public to inaccurate information through an official government communication gives added credibility to a representation that Blackfoot Confederacy has already formally disputed and is damaging to the reputation and organizational standing of Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council.

The concern is further compounded by the Treaty 7 First Nations Chiefs’ Association website, which continues to identify the Blood Tribe, Piikani Nation and Siksika Nation among the Nations it collectively advocates for and continues to maintain references to Blackfoot Confederacy and the individual Blackfoot Nations. Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council previously directed the organization to correct materials that implied representation or affiliation following the Blackfoot Nations’ formal withdrawal. Similar representations have now appeared again.

Blackfoot Confederacy is calling for the immediate removal of the Blood Tribe, Piikani Nation and Siksika Nation from all descriptions of the Nations politically represented by the Treaty 7 First Nations Chiefs’ Association. Blackfoot Confederacy is also seeking corrections to any webpages, references or public materials that imply the organization speaks for or represents Blackfoot Confederacy or the three Blackfoot Treaty 7 Nations.

Blackfoot Confederacy is further calling on Minister Sawhney and Alberta Indigenous Relations to correct the September newsletter and ensure future Government of Alberta communications accurately distinguish between the Treaty 7 Nations and organizations that represent only some Treaty 7 Nations. This is especially concerning given recent efforts by Blackfoot Confederacy leadership to engage directly with Minister Sawhney and her office, while an organization that does not represent the Blackfoot Nations is being presented through an official ministerial communication as a source of information on Treaty No. 7.

Blackfoot Treaty 7 is a Nation to Nation agreement with the Crown, and the authority of the Siksika Nation, Kainai Blood Tribe and Piikani Nation cannot be assumed, transferred or represented by another organization without their authorization. The Government of Alberta has already been formally notified of this political structure and has engaged with Blackfoot Confederacy through established agreements and working tables that recognize that relationship.

Accurate representation is not optional when communicating on Treaty relationships, political authority and the rights of the Blackfoot Nations. Blackfoot Confederacy expects the Government of Alberta and the Treaty 7 First Nations Chiefs’ Association to correct the public record and ensure that future communications accurately reflect who represents the Blackfoot Nations and the government to government structures already in place.

Full Statement is available below:

The Chiefs of Blackfoot Confederacy are seeking a clear written explanation from the Government of Alberta regarding the pause in meetings, communication and work under the Government of Alberta–Blackfoot Confederacy Protocol Agreement until after the October 19, 2026 provincial referendum.

The Protocol Agreement was established in 2017 as a government-to-government framework between Blackfoot Confederacy and the Government of Alberta to advance matters of mutual benefit. Since its establishment, the agreement has developed into an active structure involving multiple ministerial and technical tables addressing economic development and employment, culture, language and education, social matters, environment and lands, political and legal matters, UNDRIP and Truth and Reconciliation, housing and policing.

The agreement has supported workplans, Terms of Reference and working groups, with direct participation from Blackfoot Confederacy leadership, technicians and provincial ministries. In 2026, the Protocol Agreement had eleven active tables, with additional tables being considered. The 2026 annual report outlining the work and progress of these tables was provided in April.

During the summer of 2026, scheduled meetings between Blackfoot Confederacy and Alberta ministries were cancelled and communication was discontinued. Following efforts to obtain clarification, Blackfoot Confederacy was advised that direction had been provided through the Ministry of Indigenous Relations for provincial ministries to pause further communication and development under the Protocol Agreement until after the October 19 referendum.

The pause is holding up work already underway between the two governments. Workplans are in place, technicians are engaged and initiatives have been progressing through the established tables. These matters continue to require government-to-government attention regardless of the referendum.

The Chiefs are also questioning the timing of Alberta’s pause given the province’s current fiscal position. Alberta’s first-quarter fiscal update projects a $2-billion surplus for 2026–27. The continued pause raises questions about why established commitments and initiatives under the Protocol Agreement cannot proceed.

Blackfoot Confederacy was not consulted on the decision to pause the work and has not received a clear explanation for it. The Chiefs are seeking a written response from Premier Danielle Smith and Indigenous Relations Minister Rajan Sawhney explaining the reason for the pause, who authorized the direction to provincial ministries, what work is affected and when engagement under the Protocol Agreement will resume.

The full statement from the Chiefs of Blackfoot Confederacy is provided below.

WEEK 2: ARE YOU READY TO VOTE?

Referendum Day: October 19, 2026

As part of Week 2 of Blackfoot Confederacy’s Alberta Referendum 2026 voter information campaign, we are focusing on the practical side of voting. With October 19 approaching, this week is about making sure Blackfoot Niitsitapi know who can vote, how to check their registration, what identification may be required, where to vote, when to vote and what options are available.

This campaign is providing practical voter information for Blackfoot Niitsitapi throughout the referendum period. For the most current and complete information, Elections Alberta remains the official source.

WHO CAN VOTE?

To vote in the Alberta referendum, you must be a Canadian citizen, 18 years of age or older, and ordinarily resident in Alberta. Students studying outside Alberta may still be eligible if Alberta remains their ordinary residence and they intend to return.

For Blackfoot members living on Nation (on reserve), Elections Alberta provides specific information regarding eligibility, identification and voting requirements.

Who Can Vote:
https://www.elections.ab.ca/voters/who-can-vote/

CHECK YOUR VOTER REGISTRATION

Before voting, it is important to make sure your voter information is current. If you have moved, changed your information or need to register, Elections Alberta provides an online registration service where you can register or update your information.

Register or Update Your Information:
https://www.elections.ab.ca/voters/register-to-vote/

KNOW YOUR IDENTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

When you vote, you will need to prove your identity and current physical address. Elections Alberta accepts more than 50 types of identification. Generally, electors can use one government-issued photo ID showing their full name, current physical address and photo, or two pieces of identification showing their full name, with at least one showing their current physical address.

IF YOU LIVE ON NATION (ON RESERVE)

For Blackfoot members living on Nation (on reserve), identification can sometimes look different from what is used at a conventional street address. A mailing address, P.O. Box or legal land description may be used instead of a traditional street address.

Elections Alberta provides information about acceptable identification, current physical address requirements and attestation options for electors living on Nation (on reserve). Because requirements can depend on individual circumstances, Elections Alberta should be used as the official source for confirming what identification is acceptable.

Elections Alberta — ID Required to Vote:
https://www.elections.ab.ca/voters/id-required-to-vote/

KNOW WHERE AND WHEN TO VOTE

There are different options for voting depending on when you choose to cast your ballot.

Advance Voting takes place October 13–17, 2026. During Advance Voting, eligible electors can vote at any advance voting location within their electoral division. Advance voting locations will generally be open from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

If you vote on Referendum Day, Monday, October 19, 2026, you will need to vote at your assigned voting location. Election Day voting places are scheduled to be open from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Elections Alberta’s referendum Where to Vote information will become available beginning September 21, 2026. Where to Vote cards will also be mailed to electors before Advance Voting begins.

Find Your Voting Location:
https://map.elections.ab.ca/

VOTING BY SPECIAL BALLOT

Eligible Alberta electors can also vote by Special Ballot, and a reason is not required to apply.

The deadline to request a referendum Special Ballot is September 25, 2026 at midnight.

Completed Special Ballot packages must be received by Elections Alberta by mail before 5:00 p.m. on October 16, 2026. Anyone planning to use a Special Ballot should allow enough time for the application and mailing process.

Request a Special Ballot:
https://www.elections.ab.ca/request-a-special-ballot/

IMPORTANT DATES

September 21, 2026 — Referendum Where to Vote information becomes available.

September 25, 2026 at midnight — Deadline to request a Special Ballot.

October 13–17, 2026 — Advance Voting.

October 16, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. — Deadline for Elections Alberta to receive completed Special Ballots by mail.

October 19, 2026 — Referendum Day. Voting places are scheduled to be open from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

GET READY TO VOTE

As October 19 approaches, make sure your voter information is up to date, review the identification requirements and know your voting options. Whether you choose Advance Voting, Election Day or a Special Ballot, Elections Alberta is the official source for the most current information.

INFORMATION IN BLACKFOOT

Elections Alberta provides voter information and voting assistance in Siksikáí’powahsin (Blackfoot). Blackfoot members can access language assistance and information about voting, eligibility and the referendum directly through Elections Alberta.

Elections Alberta — Assistance in Your Language:
https://www.elections.ab.ca/voters/assistance-in-your-language/

KEY LINKS

Elections Alberta — Referendum 2026:
https://www.elections.ab.ca/elections/referendum/

Check Your Registration:
https://www.elections.ab.ca/voters/register-to-vote/

ID Requirements:
https://www.elections.ab.ca/voters/id-required-to-vote/

Where to Vote:
https://map.elections.ab.ca/

Request a Special Ballot:
https://www.elections.ab.ca/request-a-special-ballot/

Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council is pleased to release Issue 003 of OKI COLLECTIVE // QUARTERLY, covering the work, leadership and activities from January through August 2026.

This edition captures a period of continued Treaty advocacy, national engagement, economic partnership and community work. From meetings with Prime Minister Mark Carney and federal ministers to Blackfoot Confederacy participation at the 2026 Assembly of First Nations Annual General Assembly, the issue highlights the ongoing work to advance Treaty rights, strengthen Nation-to-Nation relationships and ensure Blackfoot Nations have a direct voice in decisions affecting their lands, rights and future.

Issue 003 also highlights important work taking place closer to home, including the annual Blackfoot Guardians Gathering, the Sacred and Significant Sites Tour led through Education and Language, coordinated health planning, new staff and leadership appointments, and initiatives supporting Blackfoot youth. The issue also celebrates the 2026–2027 Siksikaitsitapi royalty and the continued work of programs and teams across the Confederacy.

The publication also addresses Alberta’s 2026 referendum and the information Niitsitapi need as Treaty people, including the separation question, voting eligibility and important dates. Alongside this, readers will find stories highlighting new economic relationships, including the joint economic implementation plan established between Blackfoot Confederacy and the Iroquois Caucus.

OKI COLLECTIVE // QUARTERLY continues to serve as a record of the work being carried out across Siksikaitsitapi. Issue 003 brings together the people, programs, decisions, gatherings and initiatives that have shaped the first eight months of 2026, providing members and partners with a look at the continued work of Blackfoot Confederacy and the collective priorities of the four Nations.

Blackfoot Confederacy is launching a weekly voter information campaign for Blackfoot Niitsitapi in the lead-up to the Alberta referendum on October 19, 2026.

Each week, Blackfoot Confederacy will share clear information about the referendum, the questions being asked, voting eligibility, important dates, voting options and what Blackfoot people need to know as Treaty people.

WHAT IS BEING VOTED ON?

There will be 10 referendum questions on separate, numbered and colour-coded ballots. Questions 1–9 are Yes/No questions. Question 10 is the separation question.

It asks whether Alberta should remain a province of Canada, or whether the Government of Alberta should begin the legal process required under the Canadian Constitution to hold a future binding provincial referendum on whether Alberta should separate from Canada.

Important: Question 10 is not the final vote on separation. A Yes vote would not itself separate Alberta from Canada. It would support beginning the legal process toward a future referendum. Elections Alberta states that the result of Question 10 is not binding.

WHY DOES THIS MATTER TO NIITSITAPI?

For Blackfoot people, Alberta’s constitutional future raises important questions about Blackfoot sovereignty, Treaty rights, jurisdiction, lands, waters and the Nation-to-Nation relationship with the Crown.

Blackfoot Nations and our Treaty relationships existed long before the Province of Alberta. Blackfoot Treaty 7 is a Nation-to-Nation agreement, and Blackfoot Confederacy has stated that Blackfoot Nations are Treaty partners, not simply stakeholders in decisions concerning our lands, rights and future.

In May 2026, the Alberta Court of King’s Bench ruled in litigation concerning the earlier citizen-led separation petition that Alberta had breached its duty to consult First Nations. Blackfoot Confederacy was one of the First Nations parties involved in that legal challenge.

WHO CAN VOTE?

If you are a Canadian citizen, 18 years of age or older, and ordinarily resident in Alberta, you may be eligible to vote.

Being First Nations does not prevent an eligible Blackfoot person from voting. Elections Alberta also provides identification and attestation options for certain circumstances, including electors residing on a First Nation.

Advance voting is scheduled for October 13–17, 2026. Referendum Day is Monday, October 19, 2026, with voting places scheduled to be open from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Eligible electors can also vote by mail through the Special Ballot process. Applications close October 9, 2026, and completed ballots must be received by Elections Alberta before 5:00 p.m. on October 16, 2026.

KNOW THE QUESTION. KNOW YOUR OPTIONS. KNOW HOW TO VOTE.

This is Week 1 of Blackfoot Confederacy’s Alberta Referendum 2026 campaign. Follow Blackfoot Confederacy communications each week as we provide information to help Blackfoot Niitsitapi understand the referendum and participate in the voting process.

For information about voter eligibility, identification, registration and voting options visit: www.elections.ab.ca/voters

For official referendum information visit: www.elections.ab.ca/elections/referendum

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

Blackfoot Confederacy leadership and staff met with newly elected Amskapi Piikani Chairman Terry Tatsey and members of the newly elected council on Thursday, August 20, 2026, in Browning, Montana.

The meeting provided an opportunity to welcome the newly elected officials and provide a brief orientation on the work of Blackfoot Confederacy, its leadership, and ongoing relationships across Siksikaitsitapi.

Representing Blackfoot Confederacy were Chief Troy Knowlton of Piikani Nation and Chief Samuel Crowfoot of Siksika Nation, along with Council Members Albertine Crowshoe of Piikani Nation and Dorothy First Rider of the Kainai-Blood Tribe.

Blackfoot Confederacy staff in attendance included CEO Kimmy Shade, Kirby Smith, Jodi Running Rabbit and Theoren Royal.

The meeting highlighted the importance of maintaining strong relationships and communication among the four Nations of Siksikaitsitapi. It also provided an opportunity to introduce the newly elected Amskapi Piikani leadership to the work, priorities and ongoing initiatives of Blackfoot Confederacy.

Blackfoot Confederacy extends congratulations to Chairman Terry Tatsey and the newly elected Amskapi Piikani Council and looks forward to continued dialogue and collaboration among Siksikaitsitapi leadership.

OTTAWA, ONTARIO | July 17, 2026 — Blackfoot Confederacy concluded a highly successful 2026 Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Annual General Assembly, held July 14–16 in Ottawa, Ontario, achieving significant progress on Treaty implementation, political advocacy, Nation-to-Nation relationships, and economic development.

Representing Blackfoot Confederacy were Chief Traveller (Travis) Plaited Hair of Kainai-Blood Tribe, Chief Samuel Crowfoot of Siksika Nation, Chief Troy (Bossman) Knowlton of Piikani Nation, and Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council Chief Executive Officer Kimmy Shade.

Throughout the three-day Assembly, Blackfoot leadership maintained a strong national presence, participating in Assembly proceedings, strategic meetings with federal ministers, Treaty discussions, and Nation-to-Nation engagements that advanced priorities for Blackfoot Confederacy and its member Nations.

One of the Assembly’s most significant accomplishments was the successful adoption of AFN Resolution 13/2026 – Settling Treaty Land Entitlement Claims Outside the Specific Claims Process, moved by Chief Traveller (Travis) Plaited Hair and seconded by Chief Troy (Bossman) Knowlton.

The resolution calls upon Canada to establish dedicated negotiation processes for outstanding Treaty Land Entitlement claims that fall outside the federal Specific Claims process while providing long-term mandates to negotiate equitable compensation and land restitution. It builds upon the Supreme Court of Canada’s 2024 Shot Both Sides v. Canada decision, which confirmed Canada’s breach of its Treaty Land Entitlement obligations under the Blackfoot Treaty of 1877 and affirmed the Blood Tribe’s entitlement to additional reserve lands.

Blackfoot Confederacy also joined First Nations from Alberta and across Canada in supporting the emergency resolution opposing Alberta separation, reaffirming that no province has the constitutional authority to alter, diminish, or extinguish Treaty Rights or the constitutional relationship between First Nations and the Crown.

Another significant milestone was a historic gathering between Chiefs from Alberta and Quebec, strengthening relationships between Nations while reinforcing a united commitment to protecting Treaty Rights and advancing Indigenous priorities across Canada.

The Assembly also marked another historic achievement with the signing of the resolution, “To Establish the Relationship Between the Iroquois Caucus and the Blackfoot Confederacy and Create a Joint Economic Implementation Plan.” Signed on July 15, 2026, the agreement advances the Peace and Recognition Alliance through the creation of a Joint Economic Action Committee focused on intertribal trade, tourism, online gaming, information technology, resource management, and other joint economic initiatives between Blackfoot Confederacy and the Iroquois Caucus.

In recognition of the growing Nation-to-Nation relationship, Blackfoot Confederacy leadership was honoured with traditional gifts presented by representatives of the Iroquois Caucus, symbolizing mutual respect and a shared commitment to future collaboration.

Outside the official Assembly agenda, Chiefs participated in Natural Resources Transfer Agreement (NRTA) meetings before and after the Assembly, continuing discussions on Treaty implementation, natural resource jurisdiction, and coordinated advocacy among First Nations.

Leadership also met with the Honourable Rebecca Alty, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, to discuss implementation of the Shot Both Sides v. Canada decision and advancing negotiations on the Kainai-Blood Tribe Treaty Land Entitlement claim. Additional meetings were held with the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc and other federal ministers and officials to advance priorities important to Blackfoot Confederacy.

Supporting the delegation throughout the Assembly were Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs Society staff Pat Currie and Ryan Crosschild, together with Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council staff Theoren Royal and Andrea Yellow Horn, who assisted with government relations, communications, logistics, and Assembly coordination.

The 2026 AFN Annual General Assembly demonstrated the growing leadership and influence of Blackfoot Confederacy on the national stage. Through successful resolutions, strengthened political relationships, engagement with federal ministers, historic Nation-to-Nation agreements, and coordinated advocacy with First Nations across Canada, Blackfoot Confederacy generated significant momentum that will continue advancing the priorities of the Siksikaitsitapi.

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Media Contact

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

Photo: Grand Chief Cody Diabo of the Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke presents Chief Traveller (Travis) Plaited Hair of Kainai-Blood Tribe with a traditional gift following the signing of the resolution, “To Establish the Relationship Between the Iroquois Caucus and the Blackfoot Confederacy and Create a Joint Economic Implementation Plan,” in Ottawa, Ontario, on July 16, 2026.

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.