Speech

Calgary Pride proudly serves Treaty 7, on the traditional territory of the Niitsitapi Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), Îyarhe Nakoda (Chiniki, Bearspaw, Wesley) and the Tsuut’ina. This land is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta, District 5 & 6 within the historical Northwest Métis homeland. This place, where the Elbow river meets the Bow, is known by many names to many people, including Mohkínstsis (Niitsitapi), Wincheesh-pah (Nakoda), Kootsisáw (Tsuu'tina), Otos-kwunee (Cree), and Calgary (English). We thank the Indigenous communities of Turtle Island for both the historic and ongoing stewardship and protection of the land we collectively inhabit today. Many nations and people, Indigenous and non, are fortunate to call Moh’kinsstis and Treaty 7 territory our home. Acknowledging the land is Indigenous protocol, which we honour as a step towards reconciliation and fulfilling our responsibilities as Treaty people. Working alongside all Nations, Indigenous and non, we strive to create safe spaces where everyone can live openly and authentically.