September 22 marks the 149th anniversary of the signing of Treaty 7. Annually, Treaty 7 Day is observed on September 22 to commemorate the signing of Treaty 7 at Blackfoot Crossing in 1877. Treaty 7 is the last of the Numbered Treaties made between the Government of Canada and the Plains First Nations. It was signed on Sept 22 by five First Nations: the Siksika (Blackfoot), Kainai (Blood), Piikani (Peigan), Stoney-Nakoda, and Tsuut'ina (Sarcee). The treaty covers 130,000 square kilometres of land from the Rocky Mountains to the Cypress Hills in the east and Red Deer River south to the U.S. border.
This is a day to honour the treaty’s significance and provides an opportunity for reflection, learning and fostering greater understanding and reconciliation within the Treaty 7 region.
Blackfoot Crossing National Historic Site is the site where Treaty 7 was signed. The site remains deeply significant both as a historical landmark and a symbol of enduring cultural heritage and stands as a testament to the resilience and revitalization of the Blackfoot language and way of life.
ULethbridge is proud to be located in Treaty 7, the heart of traditional Blackfoot Territory.
Contact:
Iniskim Indigenous Relations | iniskim@uleth.ca