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