Calgary Stampeders sport Blackfoot iconography
By John Watson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Siksika Nation partnered with the Calgary Stampeders to see them brandishing a new stylized horse graphic on their helmets for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
The new iconography was first showcased in Hamilton, Ont., Sept. 30, when the Stampeders squared off against the Tiger-Cats.
“We got an invitation from the Calgary Stampeders to help design a helmet for their game on (last) Saturday, and so of course we gravitated towards doing that, and it has been a blessing working with them,” said Richard Running Rabbit, Siksika Health Services recreation team lead.
“One of the coolest things, I think, about the design is a braid. That is to signify all the children who went to residential school. One of the very first things they did was cut their hair and chop their braids off. And so, we wanted to symbolize that on the helmet.”
The icon was designed by Running Rabbit, Jacob Alexis, and Siksika Health Services CEO, Dr. Tyler White. Based on a release from the Calgary Stampeders, it is stated the concept of the icon emulates the Contemporary Plains Style Traditional Art.
The symbols used are paint styles that would historically be used for horses on special occasions including going into battle.
“Back in the day, those symbols and markings were used to signify deeds that the horse and warrior had accomplished, and also to give power to the horse,” said Running Rabbit. “There are lightning stripes down the legs for speed and for agility, there is the circle around the eye to signify good eyesight and good coordination, there are the bars across the nose and those symbolized deeds and accomplishments the horse and rider achieved.”
The eagle feathers in the mane were given in respect and are a symbol of high honour of accomplishment, which Running Rabbit explained is referred to as counting coup.
On the hindquarters, the markings symbolize the constellation Palladius, which represents the seven brothers and are present to be a symbol of the children.
The handprint symbolizes a war deed, but in this case is also now being a symbol for the children.
Siksika Nation has to date, also worked with the Calgary Hitmen, Flames, and the Jr. A Canucks on designs and symbolism showcased on jerseys and memorabilia, as well as creating opportunities for Every Child Matters dedicated games.
“It has been an awesome journey … for us, we are especially proud when the work is well accepted, but also, because a lot of this work is representing our Indigenous culture and our Indigenous peoples. When I hear positive feedback from my native brothers and sisters, it feels very good to hear that we are representing them,” said Running Rabbit.
In addition to the stylized horse, the Stampeders helmets will also feature custom numbers and braid-style striping. These are symbols depicting mountains and tipi lodges representing the people of Treaty 7, the people by the mountains.
“In Siksika, we have received nothing but hospitality from Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation teams,” said White. “The Calgary Hitmen, the Calgary Flames, and now the Calgary Stampeders. It is such an honour to be able to share our Blackfoot artwork and culture with friends and community.”
The unique orange Stampeders pregame jerseys were raffled off to fans, with proceeds being donated to youth programming benefitting Treaty 7 First Nations communities.