Today, on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we are proud to share Glenbow’s new Treaty acknowledgement – a recognition of our collective responsibility to honour the land, languages, and relationships that shape this place. These principles will continue to guide Glenbow’s work in our revitalized home, the JR Shaw Centre for Arts & Culture.
Siksikaissksahkoyi Kiitaowahsinnooni
“Blackfoot land, your territory”
This acknowledgement was developed after extensive consultation with the signatories of Treaty 7 and the Otipemisiwak Métis Government. Each Nation within Treaty 7 was consulted, with special emphasis on Blackfoot Nations in recognition of their unique and enduring history in these lands.
Glenbow’s new Treaty acknowledgement underscores our commitment to reconciliation as a shared and ongoing practice. By sharing these words today, we honour the languages residential schools attempted to silence and reinforce that truth, respect, and gratitude must be carried forward every day.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day, honours the survivors of residential schools and remembers those who did not come home. It confronts the painful legacy of residential schools in Canada, in which more than 150,000 Indigenous children were taken from their families and placed in schools that systematically sought to force assimilation and destroy Indigenous cultures. These schools, which were funded by the Canadian government and run by Christian churches, operated for more than 150 years (1831 – 1996). Poor conditions and abuse were widespread, and it is currently estimated that more than 7,200 children died. The exact number of deaths is not currently known, as unmarked graves continue to be found at former residential school sites through the use of ground-penetrating radar.
Residential schools have had a profound and enduring impact on Indigenous communities, and it is our shared responsibility to ensure this history is acknowledged, understood, and honoured.
Why Language Matters
Language is more than communication – it carries culture, identity, and memory. To speak Indigenous languages today is an act of resistance and resilience; a way to reclaim identity, revive traditions, and share knowledge that has survived despite systemic attempts at erasure. Language embodies relationships with the land, community, and ancestors – and keeps those connections alive.
Glenbow’s new Treaty acknowledgement is strengthened by language because it connects us to the people, histories, and stories that continue to shape this land. By sharing the Blackfoot words Siksikaissksahkoyi Kiitaowahsinnooni, we root our Treaty acknowledgement in place, give thanks to the original caretakers of the land, and affirm the importance of being good stewards so future generations can live, work, and create.
Glenbow’s Commitment to Reconciliation
Glenbow’s Treaty acknowledgement is part of our broader commitment to reconciliation and supporting the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action.
As a museum, Glenbow stewards art, stories, and belongings – and with that comes responsibility. We continue to work in close collaboration with Indigenous communities to guide our Indigenous engagement and reconciliation efforts. As we reimagine the museum’s future, we are committed to centering Indigenous voices, supporting self-representation, and ensuring Indigenous knowledge systems are reflected across our exhibitions and programs.
By sharing Glenbow’s new Treaty acknowledgement today, we recommit to walking the path of reconciliation. May these words guide us toward truth, respect, and renewal, today and every day.
