Calgary is built on Treaty 7 land. Treaty 7 was signed in September 1877 between the Canadian government and five First Nations: the Siksiká, Kainai, Piikani, Stoney-Nakoda, and Tsuut’ina. This Treaty granted the Government of Canada a 130,000 km2 tract of land and did not allow them to continue their traditional lifestyles. The Treaty resulted in significant hardships and suffering for those Nations, although they continue to show their strength and resilience today.
Three First Nations (Siksiká, Stoney Nakoda, and Tsuut’ina) have their territory just outside of Calgary city limits. In addition, many Indigenous people live within Calgary, representing a multitude of Nations from this continent.
Some of the Indigenous Nations mentioned in this series include:
Métis – The Métis are a constitutionally recognized Indigenous Peoples (Métis Nation) in Canada. Their culture emerged from the association of European explorers and traders with the nations already living in what would come to be called Canada. The only remaining Métis self-governing land base in Canada is located in northern Alberta, with communities known as the Métis Settlements. For some Métis, their language is a mixed language of Cree and French, called Michif. There are several variations of Michif, and it is currently spoken by fewer than 1000 people.
Siksiká Nation or Niitsitapiiks – part of the Blackfoot Confederacy. Their community lies to the east of Calgary. They speak Siksiká, an Algonquian language.
Stoney Nakoda – historically referred to as Rocky Mountain Sioux or Plains Assiniboine. Their communities lie to the west of Calgary. Composed of three Nations: The Bearspaw First Nation, Chiniki First Nation, and Wesley First Nation. The Stoney language is a variety of Dakota Siouan and is closely related to Assiniboine.
Tsuut’ina – historically referred to as Sarcee, which is considered offensive. Their community lies between and slightly to the south of the Stoney Nakoda and Calgary. Calgary is currently building a ring road through what was, until recently, Tsuut’ina land. This project has displaced a number of Tsuut’ina families.
