Blackfoot and First Nations Metis and Inuit Protocol Handbook, 2013, University of Lethbridge
Terri Peters, tlp training
From the Introduction:
"The purpose of this document is to provide a guideline for University of Lethbridge faculty,
staff, students, board, and senate members when incorporating Blackfoot and other First
Nations Metis and Inuit (FNMI) cultures into activities or ceremonies on campus. These
guidelines will continue to evolve as we progress as a community.
In the Blackfoot culture, traditional teachings express that education should be perceived as
a gift. Giving and receiving are viewed as equally important and create an environment
where sharing is of utmost importance. Given that the university rests on traditional
Blackfoot territory, it is important to recognize elements of the Blackfoot culture in
appropriate ways across campus. This pays respect to our mutual identities and the
knowledge that we are sharing our land and our ways with each other. In the words of Andy
Black Water, Blackfoot Elder, “sharing brings honor and we will all move forward together”.
The university is within the geographic location of a Blackfoot legend about a “medicine
rock”. Based on Blackfoot legend, the Blackfoot gave the university the Blackfoot name
“Nato’ohkotok” (Medicine Rock) to indicate the wisdom, knowledge, solidarity, and
connection to the land and people of Blackfoot territory. This is a great honor for the
University of Lethbridge, and so in the spirit of sharing, we are committed to recognizing the
Blackfoot and other FNMI peoples who are such an integral part of our community."
Retrieved from: http://www.uleth.ca/policy/blackfoot-and-first-nations-metis-and-inuit-protocol-handbook, December 22, 2017
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