On October 20, 2023, Red Crow Community College (Mikaisto) board of governors, elders, staff, and students made their grand entry into their long-awaited new campus. This marked a new era for adult education on the Kainai First Nation Blood Tribe, in Stand Off, Alberta, Canada. The opening of the $48 million facility was the accumulation of seven years of marketing, lobbying, planning, negotiations with funding agencies, and community input spearheaded by Dr. Roy Weasel Fat, president of Red Crow Community College (RCCC). The late Andy Black Water, whose Blackfoot name was Aah Tso Too (Shot Both Sides), a Red Crow Elders Advisory Council board member, had envisioned the facility entering the world of the Blackfoot. The college’s former campus was located at St. Mary’s Residential School and was destroyed during a fire in 2015.

Arising from that devastation, about 400 people attended the grand opening ceremonies, campus tours, feast, and powwow to celebrate the new campus, which President Weasel Fat dedicated to the youth of the tribe. As president of the college, Weasel Fat wants the youth to see the new campus as a vision of hope for a better future. Some unique features of the building are Blackfoot signage, artwork by Blackfoot artists, an elders lounge, a ceremonial room, gym, exercise room, daycare, cafeteria, and student lounge. Members of the Elders Advisory Council, headed by Calvin Williams, the Elder Board of Governors representative, were instrumental in assisting wherever possible. The council was especially helpful with signage in the Blackfoot language, which was used for every area inside and outside the facility.

OVERCOMING ADVERSITY: Dr. Roy Weasel Fat, president of Red Crow Community College

I attended boarding school, where my first language was Blackfoot. Attending boarding school during the day was a positive learning experience; however, the residential school part was negative. Throughout the 66 years of my educational journey, I’ve maintained my cultural identity, leading a decent life. This retention of culture has fostered a deep compassion in me, which grew as I witnessed other kids’ loneliness and abuse by peers as we were made to follow restrictive rules instituted by boarding school administrators. This made daily boarding school life unbearable, but we had no choice but to live under those harsh rules. This resulted in further alienation to liking school. We all learned to hate school. This led to early dropouts, and most of us did not graduate from high school. I experienced similar loneliness and abuse myself. Consequently, I’ve always sought to prevent such suffering in others’ lives. Those of us who did not graduate went back to school as adult learners and eventually graduated from college and university. Boarding school delayed our progression to higher education. Being resilient, we eventually attained higher education and went on to become role models for higher education in our community.

The newly opened RCCC campus is within the Blackfoot Confederacy, the Kainai First Nation, which is situated within the traditional lands of the Niitsitapi (the Real People). This state-of-the-art building on the Blood Indian reserve (Canada’s largest Indian reserve) stands under the expansive prairie sky and the watchful presence of Ninastiko (Chief Mountain). The institution is a testament to Indigenous resilience. At the heart of the college’s Niitsitapi values and strategic direction is the promotion of Blackfoot education, echoing the efforts of Chief Red Crow during the seminal Treaty 7 negotiations. This undertaking has been beneficial on an immense scale, touching lives, reshaping worlds, and redefining relationships with the land. The initial establishment of RCCC within the walls of the historic St. Mary’s school speaks to the resilience and collective strength of the Blood Tribe. Moreover, constructing a significant new building is a beacon that merits aspiration. The Red Crow facility should serve as a model for Indigenous communities everywhere, symbolizing the power of self-advocacy. Notably, the project began with community support and a commitment from the tribal council (both the Kainai chief and council) that spurred matching funds from the province of Alberta. This narrative of self-reliance and honoring Blackfoot values is among the powerful lessons imparted to Red Crow students as they learn to navigate and overcome challenges.

A LOOK BACK

Nestled in the heart of traditional Blackfoot territory of southern Alberta, approximately seven and a half miles north of the town of Cardston, the original RCCC campus carried a history as deep and enduring as the prairie grasses along Highway 2. The Immaculate Conception Boarding School, opened in 1898 on the Blood reserve, was replaced in 1926 with the St. Mary’s Residential School. Canada’s federal government took over the operation of the school in 1969 and closed it in 1988. Throughout its history, the school, known by various names including St. Mary’s Blood Indian School and the Blood Day School, experienced overcrowding in the mid-1930s and severe outbreaks of diseases, including measles in 1935 and spinal meningitis in 1956. This institution, part of the more than 130 residential schools in Canada that operated from the 1870s to 1996, was designed to separate Indigenous children from their culture and was a symbol of a painful Canadian colonial effort to eradicate Indigenous cultures. “The legacy of residential schools has left a deep scar on the lives of Niitsitapi families, severing the transfer of traditional knowledge, language, and ways of living,” states Calvin Williams, whose Blackfoot name is Mahtsaohtaan (Pretty Shields). Williams, an RCCC elder who sits on the college’s governing board and is a member of the Sacred Big Holy Society and the Brave Dog Society, adds, “For many, this disruption has resulted in a loss of some traditional knowledge, with the richness of heritage no longer passed down through generations during the residential school era. Parents, once the custodians and teachers of their rich traditions, were left unable to pass on the common knowledge of their culture to their children.”

Like boarding schools throughout North America, St. Mary’s Residential School sought to assimilate Native children into mainstream Western culture. After the school closed, the Blackfoot of the Blood reserve utilized the buildings and facilities for Red Crow Community College.

Hence, the original location of the Red Crow Community College campus was met with complex emotions within the community. Situated about 20 kilometers from the new state-of-the-art campus, the school’s former remote setting was a stark contrast to the Blackfoot’s traditional nomadic life. St. Mary’s, symbolic of negative emotions and an era of separation between children and families, conjured memories of forced assimilation for many elders and alumni. Despite this, the community chose not to dwell on past anguish but to focus on healing and growth.

With the founding of RCCC, the former residential school transformed into a place of healing and education. The campus represented resilience and progress for the Kainai Nation. It became a space where the Blackfoot way of life, once suppressed and outlawed by the Canadian government and churches, was celebrated on a daily basis, including through specific practices like speaking the Blackfoot language, burning sweetgrass, offering sweat lodges, hosting an all-night smoke ceremony, picking medicine, and learning from place freely throughout the college. As Red Crow emerged, it offered programs that wove Blackfoot traditions with modern academics, crafting a new paradigm of learning that was both culturally rich and academically rigorous. This transformation was emblematic of a broader reclaiming of space and narrative by Indigenous communities—a reassertion of identity, sovereignty, and the power of education as a means of empowerment.

THE FIRE

The fire at St. Mary’s marked a critical moment for the Blood Tribe, tinged with both destruction and change. In the blaze, the library lost invaluable artifacts that embodied the ancestral heritage of the Blackfoot. Among the losses were over 17,000 books, including the Blackfoot Special Collection, First Nations and Native American collections, a compilation of more than 200 DVDs featuring Native titles, archival collections of photographs, rare books, artwork, the Blood Tribe Lands Collection donated by University of Lethbridge Native American studies professor Leroy Little Bear, printed copies of Kainai News, and maps detailing Blackfoot territory, as well as Blackfoot-authored books and DVDs that were available for purchase. These resources that had provided significant information about the past were now reduced to ashes.

“The legacy of residential schools has left a deep scar on the lives of Niitsitapi families, severing the transfer of traditional knowledge, language, and ways of living,” says Calvin Williams, and an elder advisor and RCCC board member.

In the wake of the loss, the college’s resolve remained steadfast. College staff chose not to dwell on the tragedy but to use it as a springboard for regeneration and progress. Red Crow swiftly moved its operations to the previously occupied Saipoyi (Stand Off) school building, which underwent substantial upgrades to meet the college’s requirements. The relocation to a centralized location dramatically increased enrollment, and the announcement of a new campus masterplan sparked a surge in interest within the community and surrounding area. This marked a fresh chapter in the college’s history, characterized by an expansion of academic programs. Continuing to offer foundational courses in literacy, adult upgrading, and arts and sciences, the college grew to include novel programs in agriculture, business, Blackfoot language, and environmental and health sciences. This enriched curriculum, steeped in Blackfoot cultural principles, allowed students broader engagement with their academic pursuits, supported by the wisdom of elders, a communal spirit, and family encouragement. The holistic educational approach envisioned in the new campus masterplan paid homage to tradition while casting an eye to a future brimming with opportunities and aspirations for the Kainai community.

With a palpable resolve to rebuild, the community aimed to create something that would honor their heritage while paving the way for future generations. In the meetings and consultations that followed in the wake of the fire, the voices of the community resonated with a clear message: this was an opportunity to enact profound change. The kaahsinooniksi (elders), in particular, advocated for a forward-looking perspective. They spoke of the importance of innovation, adaptation, and the continuation of their cultural legacy through education and growth. The decision to rebuild Red Crow Community College was not merely about constructing a new building. It also meant redefining the college’s role, with the new campus emerging as evidence of hope and progress, embodying the Blackfoot’s resilience and adaptability and reflecting the community’s unwavering spirit. The initiative to rebuild RCCC became a rallying point, a project that would not only provide a state-of-the-art educational facility but also serve as a physical manifestation of the community’s resilience and commitment to its future. The response to the fire thus became a story of unity, determination, and an unshakable belief in the power of collective action to overcome adversity.

REVITALIZATION

Under the direction of President Weasel Fat, Red Crow pursued a path of change following the fire. At the forefront of this transformation stands the Kainai Studies Program, inaugurated in 2002. Through the elders’ initiative, Dr. Weasel Fat transformed the program into Niitsitapi studies, coalescing Blackfoot knowledge into all programs offered at RCCC. The Niitsitapi Studies Program weaves Niitsitapisskska’takssin, a Blackfoot knowledge framework, into the fabric of higher education, delivering syllabi that spring from the Blackfoot/Kainai/Blood perspective. It fills a critical educational gap, aiming to impart knowledge about the ways and philosophies of the Niitsitapi, not only to Kainai members but to a broader audience. The curriculum’s focus on Blackfoot language, culture, and history has drawn a diverse cohort of students, all keen to delve into and connect with Blackfoot traditions.

Following a devastating fire, RCCC leaders worked tirelessly to rebuild the college. Eight years later, on October 20, 2023, Red Crow Community College finally reopened its doors to a new generation of Blackfoot students.

The triumph of the Niitsitapi Studies Program is evident in its role in integrating traditional Blackfoot knowledge within academic settings, which was instrumental in securing the $48 million investment for the new campus. This investment, a joint effort by the college, the Blood Tribe chief and council, and the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, allowed for the development of a state-of-the-art facility designed to accommodate up to 900 students. The insightful leadership of Dr. Weasel Fat has played a crucial role in guiding the college toward a future where Blackfoot cultural principles are embedded and practiced within the educational process. The realization of the new Red Crow campus stands as a path to a future where Blackfoot ethical principles are woven into the educational experience. The collaborative efforts of the community, Clark Builders, Larkspur Consulting Inc., M3 Development Management Ltd., St. Mary’s Construction, and Kasian have given rise to a campus that not only fosters learning but also serves as a living embodiment of the Kainai Nation’s heritage and aspirations. The Indigenous Language and Culture Diploma Program is a cornerstone of the curriculum at the new campus, offering Blackfoot cultural competency and ceremonial mentorship. The Sinnaakia’tsistsi Iitohtopii (library), with its extensive Blackfoot, Indigenous, and general collection, provides resources reinforcing the college’s dedication to cultural education.

The new RCCC campus has also become an essential hub for the community and an inspiration for the Kainai Nation’s cultural revitalization. Beyond its role as an educational institution, it serves as a vibrant center for preserving and revitalizing the Blackfoot way of life. The incorporation of Blackfoot knowledge, language, and art into both the curriculum and the physical space of Red Crow Community College is a key aspect of its cultural revitalization efforts. This deliberate integration serves to create an immersive educational environment that honours and perpetuates Blackfoot heritage.

The curriculum of various academic disciplines is thoughtfully interwoven with traditional knowledge, providing students with a unique opportunity to connect with their heritage while pursuing academic excellence. Elders and community members play vital roles in shaping cultural programs, infusing the campus with wisdom passed down through generations. Their involvement ensures that the teachings and traditions of the Blackfoot people are not only remembered but actively practiced and cherished. Moreover, this fusion of Indigenous and Western knowledge systems provides students with a more holistic and culturally relevant education. While courses in language, history, and cultural studies are designed to deepen students’ understanding of their heritage and strengthen their identity, the curriculum also encourages students to explore contemporary issues through a Blackfoot lens, fostering critical thinking and a deeper appreciation of their culture’s relevance in today’s world.

Figure 1. RCCC’s core values form an interconnected arrangement
that is best illustrated through this holistic framework.

As a sanctuary for the Blackfoot language, RCCC provides a space where both students and community members can learn and speak the language, thereby keeping it alive and vibrant. Language courses are offered not only to students but also to faculty and the wider community, reflecting the college’s commitment to language preservation and revitalization. These courses provide a space for intergenerational learning, where elders and language keepers share their knowledge with younger generations, ensuring the continuity of the language.

Artistic expressions of Blackfoot culture are prominently displayed throughout the campus, creating an environment that is both educational and inspirational. From traditional crafts to contemporary interpretations of Blackfoot symbols, the artwork serves as a visual representation of Blackfoot stories, values, and ceremonies. It enriches the learning environment and provides a source of inspiration and cultural pride. The art is not merely decorative; it is educational, offering students and visitors insight into the rich artistic traditions of the Blackfoot people. As such, the campus is a medium for the creativity and resilience of the Kainai Nation. RCCC is more than just a place of learning; it is a living embodiment of Blackfoot culture. It stands as a powerful symbol of the community’s commitment to preserving their heritage and passing it on to future generations.

The physical space of the college itself is designed to reflect Blackfoot culture and values. Architectural elements such as the orientation of the building and the use of traditional motifs create a sense of place that resonates with Blackfoot identity. The campus layout and design elements were guided by cultural considerations, ensuring that the space is not only functional but also meaningful. Through all these efforts, Red Crow Community College has become a living example of how educational institutions can honor and celebrate Indigenous cultures. Incorporating Blackfoot language, art, and knowledge into the college’s curriculum and physical space is a powerful statement of resilience and a testament to the enduring strength and vitality of Blackfoot culture. It provides students with a rich educational experience that is deeply connected to their heritage, fostering a sense of identity and belonging. This approach not only benefits the students but also contributes to the broader goal of preserving and promoting Indigenous cultures in a modern context. The college’s commitment to integrating these cultural elements ensures that Blackfoot traditions and knowledge are passed down to future generations, keeping the spirit of the community alive and vibrant. Through this cultural revitalization, the college is not only educating minds but also nurturing spirits, as the rich legacy of the Blackfoot people continues to thrive.

BLACKFOOT VALUES

Red Crow offers a spectrum of programs, certificates, and diplomas, including the Niitsitapi Health Care Aide Program, a Niitsitapi environmental science certificate, the Niitsitapi Basic Science Program, the Niitsitapi Literacy and Adult Upgrading Program, the Indigenous Bachelor of Social Work Program, an Indigenous mental health diploma, a Niitsitapi agriculture certificate, an Indigenous language and culture diploma, a Niitsitapi livestock production certificate, the Niitsitapi Teacher Education Program, a Niitsitapi education assistant certificate, a Niitsitapi business administration certificate, and the 2 + 2 Niitsitapi arts and science diploma.

To emphasize personal development at Red Crow, it is critical to stress that the education received goes beyond traditional careerbuilding and the mere application of knowledge acquired in college. Regardless of the specific program undertaken at Red Crow, students learn and internalize the 11 core values of the Niitsitapi while understanding time as a widening spiral of influence. Those core values are: 1) Aatsimmoiyihkanni – spirituality, 2) Kimmapiiypitsinni – kindness to others, 3) Innakotsiiysinni – respect for others, 4) Niitsitapiiysinni – to be Blackfoot, 5) Ihpipototsp – purpose for being there, 6) Aksistoiyipaittapiiysinni – being able to take on tasks independently, 7) Isspommaanitapiiysinni – being helpful to others, 8) Aoahkannaistokawa – everything comes in pairs (balance), 9) Ihkanaitapstsiwa – everything that is given to a person to do what they want with, 10) Pommotsiiysinni – to transfer something to others, and 11) Kakoysin – be aware of your environment.

The interconnected arrangement of Blackfoot terms placed in a holistic framework (see Figure 1) symbolizes the interrelation of values within the Blackfoot way of life. Each term represents a fundamental aspect of the Blackfoot worldview, and the web of connections highlights how these values are not isolated; instead, they are part of a comprehensive and dynamic system. The interwoven structure emphasizes that each value influences and upholds the others, creating a resilient and integrated mesh of principles. Such a representation underscores the importance of balance and harmony in the Blackfoot way of life, where social, spiritual, environmental, and personal dimensions are constantly discussed, shaping the community’s collective ethos and individual behaviors. The framework thus serves as a visual affirmation of the culture’s understanding that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts, and that maintaining the integrity of this interconnectedness is vital for the cultural preservation and the flourishing of the Blackfoot people.

At RCCC, education extends beyond the classroom, fostering personal growth and a deep connection with the land, instilling the essential values that guide individuals in widening their sphere of influence, contributing to their community, and understanding the significance of time from a distinctly Niitsitapi perspective. Everything is connected. Everything is holistic. The new Red Crow Community College campus epitomizes the resilient spirit of the Kainai Nation, embodying a journey of growth and empowerment that honors their heritage while forging pathways for future generations.

Mickey Vallee, PhD (Kimmapipiitsisinni – Compassion), is a research strategy consultant; Mary Weasel Fat (Iimo’tapisttayaakii – Dives About Woman) served as RCCC’s library coordinator; and Samantha Fox (Sinopaaki – Fox Woman) is vice president and director of adult education at RCCC.