News

Blackfoot Confederacy Calls for Immediate Corrections from Alberta Indigenous Relations and Treaty 7 First Nations Chiefs’ Association

Blackfoot Confederacy is calling for immediate corrections after inaccurate information about the political representation of the Blackfoot Treaty 7 Nations was circulated through an official newsletter from Alberta’s Minister of Indigenous Relations. The Government of Alberta was formally notified of the Blackfoot Confederacy Nations’ withdrawal from the Treaty 7 First Nations Chiefs’ Association in 2024, yet the September 2026 newsletter directs readers to an organization that does not represent Siksika Nation, Kainai Blood Tribe or Piikani Nation.

BLACKFOOT CONFEDERACY CHIEFS SEEK EXPLANATION FOR ALBERTA’S PAUSE OF PROTOCOL AGREEMENT WORK UNTIL AFTER OCTOBER 19 REFERENDUM

Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs are calling for transparency from the Government of Alberta regarding the pause of meetings, communication and work under the Alberta–Blackfoot Confederacy Protocol Agreement until after the October 19, 2026 provincial referendum. The Chiefs are seeking a clear written explanation for the decision, which has delayed ongoing government-to-government work and initiatives.

Blackfoot Niitsitapi Voter Information Campaign Week 2

WEEK 2 of the Blackfoot Niitsitapi Voter Information Campaign is focused on the practical side of voting in the October 19, 2026 Alberta Referendum. This week provides information on who can vote, voter registration, identification requirements, advance voting, Election Day, Special Ballots, and where to find official Elections Alberta information.

Welcome to Issue 003 of OKI COLLECTIVE // QUARTERLY.

This edition captures a busy and important chapter of work across Siksikaitsitapi, bringing together stories of leadership, Treaty advocacy, economic partnerships, culture, education, health and community. From national discussions in Ottawa to teachings and gatherings across Blackfoot Territory, this issue follows the people, decisions and initiatives shaping the continued work of Blackfoot Confederacy. Inside, readers will find a look at Blackfoot leadership on the national stage, new Nation-to-Nation partnerships, developments across our Health and Education departments, the work of our Guardians, the annual Sacred and Significant Sites Tour, new leadership within the organization, and celebrations of our youth and Siksikaitsitapi royalty.

ALBERTA REFERENDUM 2026 | WHAT NIITSITAPI NEED TO KNOW

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.

Blackfoot Confederacy Announces Kirby Smith as New Director of Siksikaitsitapi Ohkin’niinaiks Society

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.** After eight years of dedicated service with Blackfoot Confederacy, Smith brings extensive experience, knowledge, and a strong commitment to advancing the collective priorities of Siksikaitsitapi into this important leadership role.

Blackfoot Confederacy Welcomes Newly Elected Amskapi Piikani Leadership

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. 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.

Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council Annual Golf Tournament Returns August 21

Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council invites golfers, businesses, and community supporters to take part in the 2026 Annual Golf Tournament on Friday, August 21, 2026, at Nanton Golf Club (Secondary Highway 533, Nanton, Alberta). This annual event brings participants together for a day of golf while raising funds in support of Siksikaitsitapi youth. Teams from across Southern Alberta and beyond are encouraged to register and take part in an afternoon of friendly competition, networking, and community support.

Blackfoot Confederacy Issues Request for Proposals for Non Market Housing Initiative

Blackfoot Confederacy is seeking qualified proponents to help advance a culturally grounded non market housing initiative in Mohkinstsis (Calgary). This opportunity supports the development of affordable housing designed by and for Niitsitapi, with proposals closing at 4:00 p.m. MDT on August 20, 2026.

Blackfoot Confederacy Advances Treaty Rights, Economic Partnerships and National Priorities at 2026 AFN Annual General Assembly

Blackfoot Confederacy leadership returned from the 2026 Assembly of First Nations Annual General Assembly with significant accomplishments that will help shape the future of the Siksikaitsitapi. Over three days in Ottawa, Chiefs advanced Treaty Rights, successfully passed a national resolution on Treaty Land Entitlement, strengthened Nation-to-Nation partnerships through a historic economic agreement with the Iroquois Caucus, met with federal ministers on key priorities, and participated in important discussions on the Natural Resources Transfer Agreement and the protection of Treaty Rights.

Blackfoot Confederacy Merchandise Now Available at Our Calgary Branch Office

Blackfoot Confederacy merchandise is now available for purchase at our Calgary Branch Office. Whether you're looking for everyday apparel or practical accessories, our merchandise collection includes a variety of items representing the Blackfoot Confederacy. From embroidered sweaters and hats to t-shirts, lanyards, license plate covers, and more, there's something for everyone. Visit our Calgary Branch Office to browse the available selection.

Blackfoot Confederacy Hiring Blackfoot Patient Navigator

Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council is looking for a Blackfoot Patient Navigator to join our Health Department. This is an opportunity to help Blackfoot members access Alberta's provincial healthcare system, advocate for culturally safe care, and make a meaningful difference across Siksika Nation, Kainai-Blood Tribe, and Piikani Nation. Applications close Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. MST. For full position details, qualifications, and application information, please see the attached job posting.