The Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs Society hosted a Gathering for Treaty and Unity rally at The Confluence in Calgary on Sunday afternoon. The event brought together Blackfoot Confederacy leadership, Treaty leadership from across the province, legal experts, and Indigenous elected officials to discuss Treaty relationships and the Alberta court's decision to quash a separation petition due to a lack of consultation with First Nations.
Chief Travis Plaited Hair Emphasizes Collaboration
Kainai-Blood Tribe Chief Travis Plaited Hair highlighted that collaboration is the most effective way to achieve progress, regardless of one's background. He noted that the rally aimed to raise awareness among Calgary residents and surrounding communities about the situation and to unite those concerned. Plaited Hair expressed positivity about the turnout of non-Indigenous people from the city, describing the event as a valuable exchange of information that will aid future decision-making.
Speakers and Participants
Speakers at the rally included Piikani Nation Chief Troy Knowlton, Siksika Chief Samuel Crowfoot, Edmonton-Rutherford MLA Jodi Calahoo Stonehouse, and Tsuut'ina Nation Chief Ellery Starlight, along with visiting chiefs and leadership from Treaty 6 and Treaty 8. Deputy Chief Sheldon Sunshine of Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation also addressed the crowd.
Opposition Leader Naheed Nenshi Comments
Opposition Leader Naheed Nenshi remarked on the unique role of Indigenous peoples in defending the colonial government against separatism. He expressed surprise that Indigenous nations united in this effort and emphasized the importance of working together as a family to improve Canada. Nenshi is scheduled to speak with the Association of Treaty Chiefs in Alberta later this week.
Background and Context
Chief Plaited Hair drew on his urban background to stress that collaboration, as demonstrated by the rally, is key to overcoming challenges. He noted that his reserve, one of the largest in Canada, has Memorandums of Understanding with surrounding communities to address shared issues and support members.
The rally served as a platform to educate the public on Treaty relationships and the implications of the court ruling, fostering unity among Indigenous and non-Indigenous attendees.
