Medicine Hat College (MHC) was honoured to host the Kainai Chieftainship Ceremony, a tradition of the Blood Tribe dating back to 1919, which celebrated the induction of two new Honorary Chiefs: former MLA of Medicine Hat and MHC Honorary Degree recipient Robert (Bob) E. Wanner, and First Nations lawyer Joanne Crook.
The prestigious Honorary Chieftainship is granted to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional advocacy for the Blood Tribe and First Nations peoples. Elder Eldon Weaselchild, co-emcee alongside Chief Travis Plaited Hair, described it as "one of the highest honours that can be bestowed on an individual."
"We will not just induct anybody into this," says 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."
Honouring Robert (Bob) E. Wanner - A Leader Who Runs in Front
Selected by veteran J.R. Fox, Wanner 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 reflected. "I hope I can contribute to an improved understanding in this community and region."
Recognizing Joanne Crook - A Dedicated Advocate for First Nations Law
Crook, a lawyer at Walsh LLP, 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 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.
"This is a true honour," Crook said. "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."
Stepping into the Heart of the Kainai Chieftainship
The Kainai Chieftainship Ceremony is as beautiful as it is prestigious. The celebration began with vibrant traditional dances, the Jingle Dress and Chicken Dance, filling the room with colour, movement, and song. Each step and rhythm carried generations of meaning, creating an atmosphere of reverence and joy.
The Capturing Ceremony, led by veteran J.R. Fox, marked the formal selection of the inductees - a moment steeped in symbolism, respect, and deep cultural tradition.
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 (1977) and former Prime Ministers Stephen Harper (2011) and Jason Kenney (2024).
Elder Jim Langston reflected on the significance:
"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."
Learn More
Medicine Hat College is proud to celebrate and share the traditions of the Blood Tribe with the community.
For information on Indigenous culture, services, and upcoming events at MHC, visit www.mhc.ab.ca.
