FORT CARLTON — Beardy's and Okemasis' Cree Nation is leading the creation and installation of an approximately 50-foot-tall steel tipi monument at Fort Carlton on behalf of Treaty 6 First Nations, with funding contributions from the Government of Saskatchewan and other partners.
The monument builds on Saskatchewan's Treaty education and awareness initiatives, including Treaty boundary signs on provincial highways, mandatory Treaty education in provincial schools and Treaties Recognition Week, says the Ministry of Government Relations in a release.
The Government of Saskatchewan is contributing $140,000 toward the project. The Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport is also supporting the project through site planning and preparation, park operations and the required heritage resource assessment.
The Government of Saskatchewan is joining Treaty 6 First Nations, the Office of the Treaty Commissioner, Pêmiska Tourism and community members at Fort Carlton Provincial Historic Park to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the signing of Treaty 6.
There are 29 Treaty 6 First Nations in Saskatchewan. The four-day gathering, held from Aug. 20 to 23, includes ceremonies, Treaty forums, cultural programming and opportunities to learn about the history and continuing significance of Treaty 6, as well as the announcement of a permanent monument in the park to commemorate the signing of Treaty.
"As Chief of Beardy's and Okemasis' Cree Nation, I am honoured to recognize the foresight and vision of the Chiefs who negotiated and signed Treaty 6 on our behalf," Beardy's and Okemasis' Cree Nation Chief Ananas said. "Their wisdom and commitment helped secure a future for our people and this monument will stand as a lasting tribute to their enduring legacy. It reflects our deep respect and gratitude for their leadership and serves as a reminder to future generations of the sacrifices they made and the path they set before us."
"The Treaty 6 150th Commemoration is an opportunity for Indigenous and non-Indigenous citizens to reaffirm our obligations under treaty – share the land, live in harmony and be good to one another," Tourism & Community Development Director for Beardy's and Okemasis' Cree Nation Kevin Seesequasis said. "As a planning partner with the Office of the Treaty Commissioner, we are proud and honoured to provide that space at Fort Carlton – the very place where these sacred covenants were agreed to 150 years ago. We must also recognize the foundational nature of Treaty 6 – Canada as we know it today, would not be what it is without the vision and leadership of our ancestors. We are grateful the people of Saskatchewan are acknowledging this once in a generation milestone with this monument and we look forward to protecting these territories, promoting these stories, and sharing the good nature of the Willow Cree people for generations to come."
Fourteen plaques recognizing the Chiefs who signed Treaty 6 at Fort Carlton in August 1876 will surround the monument. A provincial marker will also recognize the Government of Saskatchewan's contribution and the importance of our Treaty relationship.
"As we mark the 150th anniversary of the signing of Treaty 6, we invite all Treaty people to reflect on the promises made and honour the vision of the Chiefs, First Nations leadership and Crown representatives who entered into Treaty," Saskatchewan Treaty Commissioner Dr. Kathy Walker said. "While historical, Treaty 6 continues as a living agreement that guides how we share this land and relate to one another. This commemoration is an opportunity to acknowledge that learning our Treaty history and living the Treaties strengthens the foundation of reconciliation and ensures the spirit and intent of Treaty 6 for years to come."
Installation will proceed once the required heritage resource assessment, permits and site preparation are complete.
Treaty 6 was first signed at Fort Carlton on August 23, 1876, followed by an additional signing on Aug. 28 and the signing at Fort Pitt on Sept.r 9, and later several adhesions.
"This monument will stand as a lasting reminder of the leadership and vision of the Chiefs who signed Treaty 6 and the responsibilities we continue to share today," Minister Responsible for First Nations, Métis and Northern Affairs Eric Schmalz said.
Throughout 2026, First Nations and organizations are marking the anniversary through events, ceremonies and educational activities across the Treaty territory. These commemorations remind us that we are all treaty people, connected by a shared agreement and a collective responsibility to understand and uphold the spirit and intent of Treaty 6.
"This anniversary is an opportunity to honour the First Nations leaders who made Treaty and renew our commitment to advancing reconciliation in the province of Saskatchewan through understanding, partnership and action," Premier Scott Moe said.
