In the vibrant heart of spring, on April 29, 2026, a momentous chapter in the legacy of the Buffalo was written. The International Buffalo Relations Institute (IBRI) was honored to facilitate a gathering of over one hundred students from participating Calgary Board of Education (CBE) schools, including Forest Lawn High School, Jack James High School, Ernest Morrow Jr. High School, and Ian Baz Jr. High School. This significant assembly was graced by the presence of key educational leaders, including Director of Indigenous Education Lori Prichard, and Superintendents Mike Nelson and Jennifer Turner. Their participation, alongside dedicated Indigenous Agency Youth Workers from organizations such as AFFC, USAY, the Alex Food Centre, Niitoiyis Family Support, and Miskanawah, underscored the collective commitment to nurturing the next generation of Buffalo relatives.
The monumental Youth Buffalo Treaty Signing unfolded at The Confluence, situated at the traditional and significant meeting point of the Bow and Elbow Rivers in Mohkinstsis (Calgary). This site is far more than a mere venue; it is a profound historical meeting ground where Treaty 7 Nations and surrounding Indigenous communities have gathered for countless generations to share stories, trade, and forge alliances. By choosing this important place, we intentionally honored the rich legacy by providing a bridge between our ancestral past and a hopeful revitalized future. The atmosphere at The Confluence was heavy with history, and importance of this event, yet light with the promise of renewal, making it the perfect setting to host Calgary’s inaugural youth-involved Treaty ceremony.
The morning was filled with deep Buffalo dialogue and intentional knowledge-sharing. Students were captivated by the wisdom of Elders Leroy Little Bear and Amethyst First Rider, who facilitated a powerful transfer of cultural knowledge. Their stories painted a vivid picture of the Buffalo not just as an animal, but as a teacher and a provider whose spirit is interwoven with the land itself. This session was not merely educational; it helped students and attendees deepen their connections and understanding, grounding the day's activities in values of the Buffalo Treaty.
Following the storytelling and event kick-off, students immersed themselves in hands-on workshops that brought the culture to life. They learned the sacred Buffalo Treaty song, led by Leroy Little Bear and the Turning Robe Singers, their voices echoing the significance and history of the Buffalo Treaty and its song.
Participants also engaged in learning tipi protocols and setup, and practiced the traditional art of tobacco tie making, a gesture of respect and prayer that connected them personally to the day's intentions.
As the afternoon commenced, the space brimmed with student stories and a vibrant exhibition of their creative work. Selected students had decorated individual panels to express their personal and community connections to Buffalo. When these panels were arranged side-by-side, they formed a completed tipi circle, symbolizing the strength found in unity and their message. As they presented their artwork, each student shared the narratives behind their pieces, illustrating a profound emotional resonance and a growing sense of identity as Buffalo Treaty signees.
When the signing ceremony began, students and participants eagerly lined up to pledge their commitment to honor, recognize, and revitalize Buffalo. This was far more than a mere signature; it was a powerful, collective vow to restore a vital relative to the land, ensuring the spirit of the Buffalo guides and sustains future generations. As the ceremony concluded, the gathering united in a spirited closing round dance led by the Turning Robe Singers.
Are you inspired to host your own Youth Buffalo Treaty Signing event? We would love to collaborate with you to bring this transformative experience to your community. Please reach out to us at info@buffalorelations.land to start a dialogue on how we can foster deep connections and work together to revitalize the Buffalo across our shared lands. Whether you are part of a school, organization, or Nation, every initiative contributes to our collective goal of restoration. See our education page, Buffalo Tracks for information on how educators can help the path towards honouring, recognizing, and revitalizing a relationship with the Buffalo.
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In Relationship,
International Buffalo Relations Institute team
