Blood Tribe Social Development Hosted Its First Ever Client-based Conference

Story by Todd Eagle Child, Blood Tribe Communications Officer, Blood Tribe Social Development (BTSD) hosted their first-ever conference for their clients, titled Aispommootsi’yaop (helping each other), on March 11th, 12th, and 13th, 2025 at the Sandman Signature in Lethbridge, AB. BTSD wanted to take a more hands-on approach with its client-base by giving them the opportunity to take in traditional knowledge from elders, and the presentations provided unique learning opportunities. “We get into an argument, but we always get back together; it’s you that’s going to change your life; you just got to make up your mind and lead a good, holy life,” said Martin Eagle Child, Blood Tribe Elder. Eagle Child also sits on the Aitsi’poyiiksi Committee, and he reminded participants of our Blackfoot spirituality’s power in overcoming life’s obstacles and maintaining important family connections. To help enhance parenting skills, Kara Prebushewski, a speech language pathologist, was brought in from the Wonder Nook in Lethbridge. She shared her knowledge on how early developmental milestones shape a child’s future. “I am a firm believer that we are all lifelong learners, and the more information we know the better off we are.” Prebushewski continues, “the purpose of this presentation is to share awareness and education; hopefully after today we can all do a little bit better.” Using statistics, Prebushewski’s presentation showed the prevalence of disabilities affecting children and how these numbers were increasing. Prebushewski shed light on the importance of knowing the signs and answered questions from the BTSD clients and staff. • Prayer from Agnes First Charger with the “Aitsi’poyiiksi Committee”. • “Aispommootsi’yao’p – Traditional Values of Helping Each Other”, presented by Blood Tribe Elder, Wilton Good Striker. • Get to know the Blood Tribe Social Development Committee Members Panel Presentation. • “Speaking Blackfoot Puppets” with Robert Hall from the Blackfeet Tribal College. • “Traditional values leading to success”, presented by Dr. Esther Tailfeathers MD. • “Good Movement” presented by Tyler Swag. • Prayer from Harriet Heavy Runner with the “Aitsi’poyiiski Committee”. • “Two-spirit presentation” by Rose Heavy Head. • “Language & Culture” presented by Tony Delaney. • “Setting up your tipi – the traditional way”, presented by the BTSD Committee Chair Clarence Black Water, Maria Russell, Patrick Black Plume, and Franklyn White Quills. Sessions from the Blood Tribe Social Development “Aispommootsi’yaop” Conference are available on bloodtribe.org and Blood Tribe Communications YouTube channel. The videos feature Martin Eagle Child, Kara Prebushewski, and the Addictions Panel. Please note that some of the stories from the panel may trigger those that have been affected by addictions and loss. Anyone who needs assistance regarding detox, treatment, and addictions-related resources please visit: • Blood Tribe Opioid Response on bloodtribe.org. • Blood Tribe Department of Health website at btdh.ca. Call Bringing the Spirit Home detox at 403-737-8600. • Blood Tribe Harm Reduction Project at 403-593-0133.