Siksika Health Services and Calgary Sign MOU to Advance Reconciliation and Community Wellbeing

A new partnership between Siksika Health Services and City of Calgary is being hailed as a meaningful step toward reconciliation, community wellbeing, and inclusive development through sport and recreation.

The two organizations formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on April 17, 2026, establishing a long-term collaboration focused on improving the lives of children, youth, and families. The agreement is grounded in mutual respect, shared responsibility, and a commitment to advancing the principles of Truth and Reconciliation.

At the heart of the partnership is a commitment to address systemic racism and stereotypes while promoting Blackfoot culture, language, and traditional knowledge systems. Leaders from both sides emphasized that the agreement goes beyond a formal document, reflecting a deeper relationship built on trust, humility, and action.

A Holistic Approach to Health and Community

Officials highlighted that the partnership will focus on holistic wellbeing—integrating mental, physical, and spiritual health. Sport and recreation are seen as key tools to strengthen communities, foster inclusion, and support healing both on and off Siksika Nation, including among members living in Calgary.

Councillor Ike Solway, Board Chair of Siksika Health Services, noted that sport and recreation play a vital role in building comprehensive health programs rooted in cultural values. The initiative aims to support individuals across different environments while maintaining a strong cultural foundation.

More Than a Formal Agreement

Leaders stressed that the MOU represents more than just a symbolic gesture. Angie Sarsons, CEO of Siksika Health Services, emphasized that historical agreements have not always translated into meaningful outcomes, making it essential that this partnership be driven by genuine commitment and accountability.

City representatives echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the agreement focuses not only on what will be achieved, but how collaboration will be carried out. The emphasis is on shared values, mutual learning, and long-term impact.

Building Capacity and Shared Expertise

The partnership also aims to strengthen workforce development through knowledge-sharing initiatives. By combining expertise from both organizations, the agreement will support staff training in areas such as facility management, fitness programming, and service delivery.

Richard Running Rabbit, Recreation Manager at Siksika Health Services, noted that this collaboration will help build a more skilled workforce while enhancing the quality of services provided to community members.

Cultural Foundations at the Core

Following the signing ceremony, the agreement was honored through a traditional Blackfoot ceremony led by knowledge keepers. This cultural component underscores the importance of Indigenous protocols and ways of knowing in shaping partnerships.

Knowledge Keeper Kent Ayoungman emphasized that such ceremonies play a vital role in strengthening relationships and ensuring that agreements are grounded in cultural values and respect.

A Model for Future Collaboration

This partnership is being positioned as a model for collaboration between Indigenous communities and public institutions. By prioritizing respect, culture, and action, the agreement demonstrates how meaningful partnerships can contribute to stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities.

As reconciliation continues to evolve across Canada, initiatives like this highlight the importance of moving beyond words toward tangible, community-driven outcomes.

Courtesy: The City of Calgary Newsroom