Lethbridge Polytechnic and the Blackfoot Confederacy signed a memorandum of understanding on Monday.
The signing followed the opening ceremonies for Stone Pipe Days, an annual week-long celebration of Indigenous culture at the post-secondary.
“Stone Pipe Days is a celebration of the Siksikaitsitapi, the Blackfoot people,” said Jordan Head, Indigenous Cultural Advisor at Lethbridge Polytechnic.
“As a polytechnic, we are in a unique position to educate about the Niitsitapi culture, offering insight and understanding as to how truth and reconciliation benefits all.”
Stone Pipe Days activities are planned through Friday, March 27, with some including:
- A round dance from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, March 24 in The Cave;
- The Stone Pipe Days Powwow from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday, March 26 in the Val Matteotti Gymnasium;
- Cultural speakers presenting stories and topics connected to Niitsitapi culture at 12 p.m. on Tuesday, March 24 and Friday, March 27 in the E.C. Fredericks Theatre;
- A film series at 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. on Wednesday, March 25 in the E.C. Fredericks Theatre; and
- Traditional games from 10 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. on Friday, March 27 in The Cave.
“Stone Pipe Days is a time for learning, as it reminds us that education does not happen only in classrooms,” said Dr. Brad Donaldson, president and CEO of the polytechnic.
“With this week’s events and the signing of an MOU with the Blackfoot Confederacy, we celebrate with openness and respect, acknowledging that learning is an important step toward reconciliation.”
A full list of Stone Pipe Days activities is available on the Lethbridge Polytechnic website.
