Banff and Blackfoot Confederacy Sign Agreement to Strengthen Cooperation

One year after gathering to officially name the Thunder Medicine Pipe Bridge, the Town of Banff and the Blackfoot Confederacy have signed an agreement outlining how they will work together moving forward.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), finalized Nov. 6, establishes a formal process for communication and cooperation, with the goal of strengthening their relationship and identifying opportunities that benefit both communities.

Under the agreement, representatives will meet regularly, share information and work together to identify common priorities.

The town and the Confederacy will also appoint staff to coordinate discussions and help move potential initiatives forward.

Areas of cooperation could include environmental protection, economic development and cultural initiatives, although no specific projects or funding commitments have been announced.

The agreement also recognizes the longstanding cultural and historical connections of the Blackfoot people, known as Niitsitapi, to the Banff region.

The signing brought together Siksika Nation Chief Samuel Crowfoot, Piikani Nation Chief and Blackfoot Confederacy President Troy Knowlton, Roy Fox representing the Kainai-Blood Tribe, and Amskapi Piikani Vice Chairman Everett Armstrong.

Banff Mayor Corrie DiManno and Town Manager Kelly Gibson also participated.

The agreement builds on a gathering held Nov. 5, 2025, when Blackfoot Confederacy leadership and town representatives participated in a sacred pipe ceremony and offering.

That gathering also marked the official naming of the Thunder Medicine Pipe Bridge, recognizing Blackfoot history, language and cultural connections to the area.

The new agreement takes that relationship a step further by establishing an ongoing process for cooperation, rather than focusing on individual gatherings.

It also acknowledges the municipal Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

The MOU is voluntary and not legally binding. It does not replace consultation requirements under Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982.

While the agreement does not commit either community to specific projects, it provides a framework for continued discussions and future collaboration.