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Starting Monday morning, riders and runners embarked on a four-day journey to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Treaty 6.
The Unity Ride and Lance Run spans roughly 175 kilometres, starting at James Smith Cree Nation and eventually ending in Fort Carlton.
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Chief Calvin Sanderson of the Chakastaypasin Band of the Cree Nation said the ride is intended to “promote healing and peace” while also honouring the historical signing.
In August 1876, First Nations and the Crown entered into Treaty 6, which spans much of central Saskatchewan, according to the University of Saskatchewan. Some of its clauses included assistance transitioning to an agricultural economy, the provision of reserves, the establishment of schools on those reserves and the surrender of land rights.
However, according to the U of S, “there was no indication that land rights surrender was even discussed or explained” to the First Nations signing the treaty.
Participants are following an old trail that reflects the route taken by the original treaty signers.
“Back then we had nothing but wagons and horses, and probably walking too, to get to their destinations to go and sign the treaties in 1876. So, you can imagine how long they took,” Sanderson said.
Participants will experience that dedication, with at least one travel day lasting close to 10 hours, Sanderson said, adding that it’s historic to do this so many years after the signing.
“Treaty 6 is a very powerful document that our ancestors signed, and yet the grass is still growing, the river flows. You know, Mother Nature is still with us today,” he said.
Using traditional methods of land travel also shows empowerment and cultural resilience, according to a media release about the run.
A pipe ceremony starts each day of the trek, with food and drinks provided and horses rested and rotated throughout the journey.
Chakastaypasin, or Sugar Island, marks the first overnight stop, where participants, many of whom are youth and Elders, will set up camp and eat dinner.
According to Sanderson, the evenings will also include storytelling from Elders.
It’ll be “something for the youth to remember,” he said of the journey.
Riders and runners will then travel to Beardy’s and Okemasis the next evening before arriving in Fort Carlton and eventually travelling to the Village of Nations.
“I’m hoping the Chiefs will be all there riding their horses and putting on their regalia,” Sanderson said of the final day.
Roughly 19 horses started the historic ride and run, though Sanderson said more will likely join as the journey connects through other communities.
“I gotta be grateful for all our community leaders who are participating and showing unity … for this unique ride,” Sanderson said.
