It was an event with all the glitz and glamour that comes with the crowning of royalty.
Sikapinakii Low Horn, 26-year-old two-spirited artist from the Siksika Nation, was bestowed the title of 2022 Calgary Stampede First Nations Princess on Sunday.
Low Horn competed against Alayiah Wolf Child and Myghan Wolfleg for this year’s title. The trio showcased their accomplishments in traditional dance, public speaking, and cultural knowledge.
“I honestly never thought I’d be here,” said Low Horn.
“I’m just very shocked and very, very happy right now.”
She congratulated her competitors, saying that she was proud of their accomplishments as well.
For the Stampede, the competition marked a return to a sense of normalcy after three years.
“It’s very exciting to feel like it’s getting back to normal,” said Stampede president and board chairman Steve McDonough.
He said that competition had three strong First Nations women, that stepped in and stepped up on behalf of their communities.
“It’s just so amazing to be part of,” he said.
Sharing the stories of the Blackfoot people
Falon Manywounds passed the crown to Low Horn during Sunday’s ceremony, ending a unique two-year reign due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Low Horn said she was excited to be sharing the stories of all the Treaty 7 peoples, but especially the Blackfoot people. The Siksika is one of three nations that make up the Blackfoot people, including the Piikani and Kainai.
“I’m a natural born storyteller, and I’m very, very excited to be able to tell my story,” she said.
The First Nation Princess office holder has traditionally attended more than 300 events annually, meeting with students, performing speaking engagements, and acting as an ambassador of the Elbow River Camp at the Stampede.
Low Horn is also a masters of fine arts student at the University of Calgary. She is currently working on a thesis on Blackfoot cowboys.
Her exhibition entitled Oh’tooyiitsikaa’toot Ohkii was featured at the New Gallery last year.
