September 22 is Siksika Day, and yesterday the Town of Strathmore honoured the day and furthered their commitment to strengthen the relationship with Siksika and Indigenous Peoples.
Indigenous Liaison for the Town of Strathmore Astokomii Smith explained Siksika Day is a great way to learn more about Indigenous cultures and understand the importance of the land we live on.
"Siksika Day is not a celebration, but an opportunity to learn more about Siksika Culture. Siksika Day is important because it highlights the perseverance of Siksika and Blackfoot Culture. It is important to know and understand that everyone is Treaty people, not just First Nations and we all have a part to play in holding the treaties," she said.
During the day, the Town of Strathmore shared links from Blackfoot Crossing, the National Film Board, and a video they created with Siksika members. Smith explained taking the time to learn about Siksika culture is one of the best ways to honour the day.
Siksika Day is also an important day to recognize the history between Canada and Indigenous Peoples.
"Siksika Day is the anniversary of the signing of Treaty 7. On September 22, 1877 the Bearspaw First Nation, Chiniki First Nation, Blood Tribe, Pikani Nation, Tsuut’ina Nation, Stoney First Nation, and Siksika Nation signed a treaty with the Crown that guaranteed land for each tribe, annual payments, hunting and trapping rights, and other provisions. In the 120 years since then a number of the promises were broken, and policies of the Federal Government were enacted to eliminate First Nations cultures and languages," Smith explained.
She added the Town of Strathmore affirmed the importance of the Town’s relationship with Siksika and Indigenous Peoples by including this in their Strategic Plan.
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