The Memorandum of Understanding on Communication and Co-operation will determine how the two governing bodies engage with one another and strengthen their relationship.
The Memorandum of Understanding on Communication and Cooperation was signed by Mayor Jyoti Gondek on behalf of The City and Chiefs Troy Knowlton (Piikani Nation) and Ouray Crowfoot (Siksika Nation) representing the Blackfoot Confederacy. (Kainai Blood Tribe Chief Travis Plaited Hair was unable to attend and will sign at a later date). Photos: Lowa Beebe
The City of Calgary and Nations of the Blackfoot Confederacy have signed a historic agreement, formalizing a renewed relationship built on mutual trust, respect, reciprocity and honesty.
On May 9, the MOU was signed by Mayor Jyoti Gondek on behalf of The City and Chiefs Troy Knowlton (Piikani Nation) and Ouray Crowfoot (Siksika Nation) representing the Blackfoot Confederacy. (Kainai Blood Tribe Chief Travis Plaited Hair was unable to attend and will sign at a later date).
“Signing this agreement is a meaningful and long-overdue step in formalizing our relationship with the Blackfoot Confederacy,” said Gondek. “It reflects the trust we have built over time and our shared commitment to move forward together. This Memorandum of Understanding lays a strong foundation for open communication and joint action on the priorities we share, including cultural recognition and economic opportunity.”
The event began with a privately held pipe ceremony, a sacred Indigenous tradition in which participants vow to be truthful and respectful while following the agreements made at the time of the meeting.
The Memorandum of Understanding on Communication and Cooperation outlines how The City and the Blackfoot Confederacy Nations of Kainai, Piikani, and Siksika, intend to work together. It affirms both parties’ commitment to shared values as the basis for cooperation. While not legally binding, the MOU is a framework for transparent communication, regular engagement, and collaboration on areas of mutual interest such as environmental sustainability, economic opportunity, and cultural advancement.
Piikani Nation Chief Troy Knowlton says that the agreement symbolizes a commitment to mutual respect & cooperation
The Blackfoot Confederacy represents the Siksika, Pikani and Blood First Nations who are Treaty 7 signatories as well as the Blackfeet Nation in Montana.
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