Canada – The return of the Blackfoot | DW Documentary

Credit: DW Documentary

The Canadian province of Alberta is home to the Blackfoot. They’re a First Nations people in North America. Almost threatened with extinction by white colonization, they’re now back in the public eye, along with their culture.

The Blackfoot were hunters, gatherers, gifted horsemen and feared warriors. Robbed of most of their land by the whites, they’ve been fighting for their survival on three small reserves since the end of the 19th century.

The Canadian government pursued a policy of cultural eradication. After many legal and social battles, the Blackfoot are now back in the public eye, along with their culture. They practice their rituals and celebrate their traditions. These include relay races with horses, known as Indian Relay Racing. Another important tradition are powwows, where various Blackfoot communities gather for celebrations like the four-day sun dance.

For Kyle, a young man in his early 30s, this means a lot. Since he has been allowed to cultivate his cultural identity and acknowledge his origins, he has been able to lead a self-determined and free life.