Stephen Harper made honorary chief

CHIEF SPEAKER... that's the name bestowed on Prime Minister Stephen Harper by the Blood Tribe of Alberta. Harper became an honorary member of the Kainai chieftanship July 11. By accepting his new name, Harper promises to promote the cultural pride of the Blackfoot and Kainai, as well as all First Nations. Honorary chiefs are expected to hold the headdress with the highest respect and be an available resource to First Nations. The chieftainship was bestowed at the request of Blood Tribe Chief Charles Weasel Head as a response to the 2008 apology by the prime minister to former students of Indian residential schools. “It is a great privilege to be named an honorary chief of Alberta’s Blood Tribe, a strong and proud First Nation,” said Harper. “I am particularly proud of this honour given it recognizes the efforts that our government has been taking to help preserve the rich culture and heritage of First Nations in Canada while also investing in the future of Aboriginal peoples.” He said he will carry the name Chief Speaker with “great joy and pride.” Please see photo on page 10.