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.
Earlier today the Memorandum of Understanding on Communication and Cooperation (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). The agreement is the first of its kind for The City and represents a significant step in advancing its partnership with Nations of this area.
“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 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.
“The relationship between the Blackfoot Nations and The City of Calgary extends back to the origins of Fort Calgary—a site deeply rooted in the history of Mohkinstsis (Calgary, AB). This Memorandum of Understanding serves as a formal recognition of that enduring connection, reaffirming the historical and cultural ties between The City and the Blackfoot people,” says Chief Troy Knowlton, Piikani Nation. ”With Mohkinstsis located within our ancestral territory, this agreement symbolizes a commitment to mutual respect, cooperation, and the preservation of our shared history. Together, we look forward to a collaborative future that reflects the strength of our longstanding relationship.”
Validated through both Indigenous ceremony and western governance practice, formalizing this agreement represents a respectful acknowledgement and commitment from both parties.
Calgary City Council unanimously approved the MOU at the Regular Meeting of Council on April 29, 2025, following a recommendation from the Intergovernmental Affairs Committee. With the MOU now signed and in effect, City Administration will begin working on implementation with its counterparts at the Confederacy. This will include convening the Technical Committee to finalize areas of mutual interest that working tables will focus on over the next year.
