Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is visiting Siksika Nation today to take part along with the Chief and Council of the First Nation in a ceremony to commemorate the 1910 Global Settlement Agreement. The actual signing took place at Treaty Flats (Blackfoot Crossing).

In attendance were Trudeau and Marc Miller, Minister of Crown-Indigenous relations.

“Today, we right a past wrong committed by the Government of Canada. This agreement is the culmination of over 60 years of relentless advocacy and leadership by Siksika Nation, whose people have fought to right this historic wrong. It is also an opportunity to look forward as we build a better future together – one that is based on nation-to-nation dialogue, partnership, and respect," said Trudeau.

“Settling this case, which dates back to 1910, is long overdue for the People of Siksika Nation. I want to make that clear: Canada is not giving $1.3 billion to Siksika. Canada is righting a wrong committed over a century ago when Canada illegally took 115,000 acres of lands provided to Siksika along with other illegal acts. Now that this case has been settled, the compensation from the settlement can assist Siksika to develop true financial sovereignty and provide more opportunities for our People. This case was filed in 1960 under Chief Clarence McHugh and many leaderships and technicians have worked tirelessly over several decades to see this day come to fruition. I want to take the time to share my gratitude for the leaders that came before us and other ancestors who help build the foundation we stand upon today," said Chief Ouray Crowfoot, Siksika Nation

According to the staff at the historical park, after the signing at the Treaty Flats, the delegation had a tour of the museum. “As of recently, we've recently repatriated Chief Crowfoot's belongings. They arrived on May 25th and we're hoping to have them displayed in our grand opening on June 8th, so there is a gallery that leads up to the room that will house his regalia, which is there now.”

On June 8th Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park will celebrate Crowfoot’s homecoming and as part of the repatriation process, the historical park was required to be an accredited institution. As part of the ceremony on June 8th, they will be celebrating their official accreditation as a museum.

Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park will be the first First Nation-owned museum to be accredited with the AMA.

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