The bison agreement is a remarkable agreement among the North American bison, the First Nations, and the Canadian government. This agreement was established in 2017 with the aim of conserving bison populations, honouring their cultural and ecological significance and improving relations between Indigenous peoples and the government.
This agreement was signed by a number of Indigenous Nations, including the Stoney Nakoda, the Blood, the Piikani, and the Tsuut’ina nations, with the support of the federal and provincial governments. The agreement is notable for creating a new framework for bison conservation, which is built on Indigenous knowledge and practices. The agreement also acknowledges the important role that bison play in Indigenous cultures and traditions.
One important aspect of the bison agreement is the commitment to establishing new herds of bison across Canada. Bison were once the dominant species in North America, but were severely impacted by the arrival of European settlers and the loss of their natural habitat. Today, most of the remaining bison populations are in parks and reserves, and there are relatively few that are free-ranging. To address this, the bison agreement establishes a goal of creating new, genetically diverse herds that roam free on Indigenous lands. These herds will be managed by Indigenous peoples, who will use traditional knowledge and practices to ensure their survival and well-being.
Another key aspect of the bison agreement is the recognition of the important relationship between bison and Indigenous peoples. For many First Nations, bison are deeply embedded in cultural and spiritual traditions. The agreement recognizes this by including provisions for the use of bison in traditional ceremonies, and by supporting the revitalization of bison-related cultural practices.
Finally, the bison agreement is noteworthy for its emphasis on reconciliation. The history of bison conservation in North America is closely tied to colonialism and the dispossession of Indigenous peoples. By recognizing the importance of bison to Indigenous peoples and by including Indigenous knowledge and practices in bison management, the bison agreement represents an important step towards reconciliation.
In conclusion, the bison agreement is a landmark agreement that represents a new approach to wildlife conservation in Canada. By recognizing the importance of Indigenous knowledge and practices, and by prioritizing reconciliation, the agreement creates a path towards a more sustainable and just future for bison and the people who depend on them.