Community members in Star Blanket Cree Nation recently witnessed a significant event as they welcomed a herd of bison to their lands. The residents, including men, women, and children, gathered over the snowy May long weekend to celebrate this historic day for their nation, located about 100 kilometers northeast of Regina.
Sharon Strongarm, who attended the bison release with her grandchildren, expressed her emotional connection to the moment. She described the experience as deeply spiritual, emphasizing the significance of reintroducing the buffalo to their community.
Ariane Starblanket, the community navigator and project manager for the bison release, highlighted the legacy of her late grandfather, a former chief of Star Blanket, who had envisioned the return of bison for healing and food sovereignty. The project, initially part of community safety initiatives, evolved into a youth-focused endeavor to engage in caring for the bison, fostering cultural restoration and land stewardship.
Tristan Starr-Desnomie, one of the chosen youth bison keepers, shared his excitement for this new responsibility and the honor it represents. He emphasized the importance of daily care for the bison, noting their size and unique needs compared to cows.
As the bison settled into their new home on approximately 65 hectares of land, community members expressed optimism for the future. Plans to expand the area aim to eventually utilize the bison for food, clothing, and medicine, while currently focusing on educational purposes and watching the herd grow.
Looking ahead, the community anticipates empowering their youth through the presence of the bison, fostering a deeper understanding of their cultural heritage and the significance of bringing back these iconic animals.