A prominent cultural symbol of the Bearspaw First Nation has been stolen. One of four tipis set up in late June along Highway 1, west of Calaway Park, has been stripped of its canvas.
According to a statement on the Bearspaw First Nation’s official Facebook page, the theft occurred between 6 and 7 p.m. on Wednesday, August 13. “We will be taking down the remaining three tipis out of caution,” the post read.
The stolen tipi, along with the others in the display, was brightly painted in Bearspaw’s colours and logos, designed by a Stoney Nakoda artist to represent both tradition and a vision for the future.
“These tipis are not just a reminder of who we are, they are a symbol of where we’re going,” said Bearspaw First Nation Chief Darcy Dixon. “They reflect our culture, our values, and our commitment to growing a strong and self-reliant future, alongside our neighbours in Rocky View County.”
The tipis mark the entrance to a 298-acre Bearspaw landholding where the Nation is working with Rocky View County on a master plan that could include business, medical, residential, and cultural developments. Plans are underway to formalize a joint working group for the initiative.
“This is about creating a future where Bearspaw members participate fully in the economy while preserving and celebrating our identity,” Dixon said.
Anyone with information on the theft is asked to contact Cochrane RCMP at 403-932-2211 or Stoney Tribal Security Services at 403-881-2666.
