Prime Minister Justin Trudeau visited the Tsuut’ina Nation just outside of Calgary on March 5 for a special event. Both he and the Assembly of First Nations National Chief, Perry Bellegarde, received honorary headdresses from the First Nation.
Trudeau was met with an approving audience when delivering an address at the Grey Eagle Casino during the special ceremony.
“It is an honour to be with you here today, on traditional Treaty 7 territory,” Trudeau said in opening his address.
“I am profoundly touched to be receiving this great honour today. I can say without a doubt that I will remember this ceremony and cherish this experience always. And I will remember the responsibility that comes with the great honour bestowed on me today.”
He referenced his admiration for the First Nation’s efforts in preserving their language and for the various initiatives they have put forward over the years to enhance and protect their culture.
“In these early days as prime minister, I have been so grateful for these opportunities like I have today to signal the profound importance I place on renewing Canada’s nation-to-nation relationship with indigenous peoples,” Trudeau said to a roar of applause and cheers.
In attendance at the ceremony were more than 100 First Nation chiefs as well as members, chief, and council of the Tsuut’ina Nation.
Trudeau also referenced his commitment in honouring his campaign promises. One example of this is the inquiry currently underway regarding missing and murdered indigenous women and girls.
“I wish to recognize the new Canadian government, the Prime Minister of Canada, and his government and colleagues for their leadership in making the missing and murdered indigenous woman inquiry a priority,” said Tsuut’ina Nation Chief Roy Whitney-Onespot to a thunderous round of applause.
“Our woman are central in our community and give you thanks for recognizing the importance of justice for our women. I wish to give thanks to our National Chief, Perry Bellegarde, for the Assembly of First Nations, for his continued advocacy for First Nations in the political arena on a national and international level.”
Whitney-Onespot noted the significance of the event that day and why it was not one to be taken lightly.
“Tsuut’ina, along with other First Nations in Canada, have arrived at a historic moment in time, fleeting perhaps, but never to be repeated. We will be judged by our people and our descendents based on our actions and our efforts, both separately and collectively, during this time. I call this moment the Thunderbird’s Awakening,” said Whitney-Onespot.
He explained the significance of the thunderbird comes from the Tsuut’ina Nation’s culture and spiritual practices as well as stories which have been passed down to them from their grandfathers and grandmothers.
Bellegarde also thanked Trudeau and his government for their efforts in seeking justice for the missing and murdered indigenous women and girls but said their partnership doesn’t stop there.
“The implementation of the calls to action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, the 94 calls to action, are another goal we have to work on. One of those recommendations is the implementation of the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples,” said Bellegarde.
He also mentioned the importance of investing in education and providing the proper resources in schools.
“Education is so powerful and so important for our people,” Bellegarde explained.
“The other goal is the removal of the two per cent cap on funding, which has been in place for 20 years. And (Trudeau) said it’s going to be gone and March 22 is coming so we’re watching – we have our fingers and toes crossed.”
Bellegarde explained the funding cap was a “cap on growth and a cap on potential”.
The headdresses the two were presented symbolize accomplishment, respect, bravery, and peace-building. After the ceremony, the honorees participated in a celebratory dance with the Tsuut’ina Nation’s leaders.
“I commit to you that the Government of Canada will walk with you on a path of true reconciliation, in partnership, and in friendship. We will work together to make sure we succeed, for your children and grandchildren and for future generations. As an honorary Tsuut’ina member, as prime minister, and as a father, and as a Canadian, I will not lose sight of that goal.”
