U of L puts call out for Blackfoot artists

By Lethbridge Herald on December 20, 2024.

By Justin Seward

Lethbridge Herald

A new Blackfoot mark project for the University of Lethbridge  and its athletics that relates to  strength, resiliency and unity is calling out for Blackfoot artists to submit their designs for it by the end of next month.

Blackfoot heritage and university community values are to be reflected in the designs and would be used on anything from U of L’s  jerseys and merchandising to digital media and branding at the school.

“We’re really excited to launch this project and put the call out to Blackfoot artists to help us create this new mark,” says Neil Langevin, executive director of Athletics and Recreation Services. “This collaborative initiative will bring together various partners, with guidance from Indigenous Knowledge Keepers, to ensure cultural integrity is maintained throughout the design process.”

This initiative would be steps taken towards a further understanding of a deeper respect and inclusion and a reflection of U of L’s focus towards honouring the land and its people.

“We are Iniskim and we are located on traditional Blackfoot territory. Our commitment to the relationship between the University of Lethbridge and Indigenous Peoples connects everything we do,” explains Naamoipiiksii (Hummingbird), Shanda Webber, director of Iniskim Indigenous Relations. “As a result, I was really excited when Neil approached the Office of Iniskim Indigenous Relations explaining their desire to incorporate Blackfoot language and symbols within Pronghorn Athletics.”

 The project would also recognize the Blackfoot tradition through its historical and cultural significance.

“Pronghorn Athletics has already been intentional about building relationships with Indigenous communities and athletes, including developing the Saokiawakaasiks (Pronghorns) Scholarship for Indigenous athletes, as well as hosting an annual Indigenous Basketball Night,” continues Webber. “Incorporating this new mark, grounded in Blackfoot ways of knowing, will serve as a lasting symbol of the University’s commitment to inclusion, cultural respect, community-building and its connection to the land and people it serves.”

“The relationships we have fostered with Indigenous communities in southern Alberta and specifically the Blackfoot people are extremely important,” adds Langevin. “We have continued to look for meaningful ways to recognize the significance of Blackfoot culture and heritage to Pronghorn Athletics and I’m thrilled we’re able to begin this process for creating an identifying mark.”

Submissions are due by Jan. 31 and more details can be found at gohorns.ca/ulethbridge-blackfoot-logo.