Open House | Îethka Mâkochî Ahogi Chi Pa Bi Ti: Îethka Territory House of Respect

Marking a new chapter for Indigenous Arts and Leadership at Banff Centre, we are thrilled to open the Centre’s first building dedicated to Indigenous culture—Îethka Mâkochî Ahogi Chi Pa Bi Ti: Îethka Territory House of Respect.

Situated on the side of Sacred Buffalo Guardian Mountain, the new centre will have its home in one of the original Banff Centre chalets (formerly known as Farrally Hall) at the top of Ken Madsen path. It will welcome Indigenous participants, faculty, Elders and other guests from around the world. The renovated building has space for ceremony, feasts and potlucks, Elder and staff offices, and will feature newly acquired artworks representing Indigenous artists from across Canada.

Special thanks to the Mînî Thnî community elders Alice Kaquitts, Charles Rabbit, Watson Kaquitts, and Tina Fox for their guidance and wisdom on protocols for naming and opening the space, which included a pipe ceremony in early May. The name was chosen in honour of the underpinning value of the Îârhé Nakoda Nation of mutual respect when individuals come together, particularly in this place of significance for many of the Nations that make up Treaty 7.

In the spirit of welcoming, sharing, and hosting, the public is invited to an open house at Îethka Mâkochî Ahogi Chi Pa Bi Ti.