Blood Tribe names Honorary Chiefs at Medicine Hat College

Weaselchild said it is one of the highest honours that can be bestowed on an individual.

“We will not just induct anybody into this,” said Weaselchild.

“This is a very honourable way of recognizing allies and those that are there to help support what we do. Those that carry themselves well, no matter where they are.”

Bob Wanner was honoured as A Leader Who Runs in Front, as selected by veteran J.R. Fox.

Wanner also received the Blackfoot name iitis ooks kah sii – The One Who Runs In Front.

The name reflects a tradition of leading with purpose and resilience, echoing the path Fox himself has walked within the traditional society.

Wanner’s career began in social work before moving into public service, culminating in four years as Speaker of the Alberta Legislative Assembly.

He championed outreach to rural and Indigenous communities, touring the province with the Mace to share its meaning as a symbol of legislative democracy.

He also initiated the permanent installation of Indigenous artwork by Alex Janvier in the Assembly Chamber.

For these contributions, Wanner was presented with an eagle feather by Lewis Cardinal, a sacred honour representing respect, trust, and a deep spiritual connection.

“I feel a little intimidated and somewhat fearful of the responsibility that comes with this exceptional honour,” Wanner said.

“I hope I can contribute to an improved understanding in this community and region.”

Wanner is also a recipient of an Honorary Degree from Medicine Hat College.

Also honoured was Joanne Crook. She is a dedicated advocate for First Nations Law Crook and a lawyer at Walsh LLP, who has spent her entire career with the firm, working almost exclusively with First Nations clients and helping grow its First Nations Law group.

She holds the Blackfoot name Aah Pom aa kii, A Woman From Across The Water.

Crook said she believes that practicing in this area requires more than legal expertise.

“It demands understanding the law from the client’s cultural and personal perspective and serving as a trusted advisor in achieving their goals,” Crook said.

Crook said the Honorary Chieftainship is a true honour.

“There’s still work to be done, and hopefully we will achieve it, but it means so much to be welcomed into the community this way,” Crooks said.

The Kainai Chieftainship Ceremony began with traditional dances, the Jingle Dress and Chicken Dance.

The Capturing Ceremony, led by veteran J.R. Fox, marked the formal selection of the inductees.

With only 40 living members, and currently 30 active, the Kainai Chieftainship remains one of the most exclusive honours in Canada.

Past inductees include Prince Charles in 1977, former Prime Minister Stephen Harper in 2011, and former Premier Jason Kenney in 2024.

Elder Jim Langston said when you are inducted into the Chieftainship, you become part of the Blood Tribe.

“We contribute as best we can to the security, the future, the education, and all kinds of things involving the Blood Tribe,” Langston said.

by Jesse Gill, Jett Schwaier

Blood Tribe names Honorary Chiefs at Medicine Hat College

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