Newly-crowned Blackfoot Princesses ready to represent their heritage
By Alexandra Noad - Lethbridge Herald Local Journalism Initiative Reporter on August 22, 2024.
Three new Siksikaisitapi Princesses were crowned Wednesday and will spend the next year representing both the Lethbridge and District Exhibition and the Siksikaisitapi-Blackfoot Confederacy by sharing the rich traditions, culture and heritage of Indigenous people.The three categories were awarded to Lira Bull Bear as Tiny Tot, Breeli White Quills as Junior, and Mirabel Good Striker as Senior Princess.
A total of 16 girls competed in the pageant, which was held a day earlier, with the contestants being scored on an essay submission, speech, dance and talent showcase.
Breeli White Quills, this year’s Junior Princess winner, says she is very excited to represent her tribe and the values they hold.
“I just feel really great that I get to represent the Siksikaitstapi-Blackfoot confederacy,” said White Quills.
Gracia First Rider, last year’s Junior Princess winner says this experience has given her confidence she never had before, especially when it came to public speaking.
“I was so nervous last year. I was really shy; you could not get me to talk to people. If you would have told me that I would be reading speeches to hundreds of people sometimes, I would not have believed you,” said First Rider.
While the Princess Pageant has concluded with the new Princesses ready to fill their advocacy roles, the cultural celebrations at Whoop-Up Days are set to continue with the Siksikaitsapi Powwow scheduled for its second and final day today starting at 1 p.m. at Agri-food Hub. 2
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