On Saturday, June 3, 2023, the Town of Okotoks was honoured with the transfer of a traditional Blackfoot painted lodge (Tipi). This Tipi was transferred to Mayor Thorn, on behalf of the Town of Okotoks, by four Blackfoot Elders and Knowledge Keepers.
This Tipi transfer is a symbol of the Town’s commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples. With the transfer, comes a great responsibility to the Town. The Tipi was transferred in ceremony, which is an oral commitment from the Town to care for this Tipi and to know its oral protocol. The ceremony and acceptance of this painted lodge is a Vow from Town Council and Administration that we as a community will continue to honour our Indigenous partners.
Elders from Treaty 7 were instrumental in helping translate the Town's vision statement into the beautiful design that you will see on the outside Tipi. The Town adopted a new vision statement in the fall of 2022, which is: A vibrant, resilient, and connected community that fosters wellbeing of land and people; a community to call home.
