The International Blackfoot Research Conference is an event to honor the traditional research process of the Siksikaitsitapi, which includes the Amskapi Piikani (Blackfeet –Southern Piegan), Siksika Nation (Blackfoot), Piikani Nation (Piegan), and Kaiaiwa Nation (Blood). Blackfeet Community College (BCC) believes this is an opportunity for the Blackfoot Confederacy to unite and celebrate educational sovereignty by sharing knowledge among bands, yet under the unification of one nation.

BCC extends a warm welcome to all Piikani people (local and distant), our sister tribes in Canada, and all advocates of Indigenous research to attend the upcoming conference on June 14-16, 2022. The International Blackfoot Research Conference will be an opportunity for the Siksikaitsitapi Nation to continue to affirm educational and research sovereignty rights as an Indigenous nation. This event will also offer an opportunity for the Blackfoot people and advocates of the Blackfoot nation to engage in critical dialogue on issues of scholarship, research, teaching, and service. This conference will honor all fields of research that will advance the knowledge of the Skiksikaitsitapi.

The objective of the conference is to feature the traditional research processes of the Blackfeet, while also honoring Western and other methods of research. In particular, the college would like to recognize any Blackfoot researchers and advocates to share and present on their published work, doctoral dissertations, master’s theses, research projects, and/or career-related research.

The International Blackfoot Research Conference will also recognize eminent scholars and elders and invites them to share knowledge on the traditional research process, which may include oral tradition, language, and traditional lifeways. Presentations in other areas may include agriculture, arts and media, business, computer science and technology, education, healthcare fields, humanities, human services, industrial services, law and legal studies, math and science, or other areas. Work in these fields must be focused on the advancement of the Blackfoot or Indigenous peoples and/or research conducted by Blackfoot people.

The deadline for proposals is May 1. All presenter proposals should submit an application to blackfootresearch@bfcc.edu. If proposals are officially accepted, presenters will receive a complimentary registration to all conference sessions. However, presenters will still be responsible for lodging/travel expenses.