Joe Buffalo - Chief Big Bear
The next graphic from Colonialism Skateboards is celebrating two powerful First Nations warriors: Joe Buffalo and Mistahimaskwa -Chief Big Bear. Colonialism Skateboards team rider, Joe Buffalo, is from Maskwacis, Alberta (Samson Cree Nation). He has been skateboarding most of his life and is not slowing down anytime soon. It’s important to recognize that Joe attended Residential Schools for five years. Residential Schools are now known for genocide. Joe survived this destructive institution, and a lot of Indigenous children didn’t. His first memory of skateboarding was seeing his older cousins building launch ramps and watching them skate. Skateboarding has helped Joe overcome adversity throughout his life by helping him focus on a positive activity that not only kept him busy but also challenged him to grow.
As a direct descendant to Chief Big Bear through his kookum, Joe wanted a skateboard graphic featuring the strength and resilience of Chief Big Bear. Mistahimaskwa - Chief Big Bear, a prominent leader of the Plains Cree in the late 19th century, holds a significant place in history on Turtle Island for his role in advocating for the rights and sovereignty of his people. Known for his diplomacy and leadership, Big Bear sought to protect his community amid the encroachment of settler colonization and the pressures of the Canadian government. His resistance against the imposition of treaties that he felt were unfairly negotiated exemplifies his commitment to safeguarding his people's traditional lands and cultural integrity. His leadership was instrumental in advocating for justice and fair treatment during a time of profound disturbance.
Big Bear's importance extends beyond his role as a leader in his own time; his legacy continues to inspire and influence Indigenous advocacy and resistance. His stance against the Treaty 6 agreement, which he believed undermined Cree sovereignty and failed to adequately address the needs of his people, highlights his deep understanding of the political and social dynamics affecting Indigenous communities. Despite facing significant pressure and eventual imprisonment, his values stress the importance of maintaining cultural and political sovereignty.
Today, Chief Big Bear is remembered as a symbol of resilience and resistance against systemic injustices brought on by the Canadian government. His efforts to protect his people's rights and his advocacy for fair treatment have left a lasting impact on the discourse surrounding Indigenous rights in Canada. By learning about his life and leadership, people can gain a valuable understanding of the historical struggles for justice and the ongoing journey for respect and recognition of Indigenous sovereignty.
The Sundance ceremony is a very important spiritual and cultural event for many Plains tribes. It is a time for personal and community renewal, where people come together to dance, drum, and fast while seeking visions and connecting with the Creator. The ceremony often includes physical challenges and sacrifices to show dedication and thanks. It strengthens cultural ties, honors ancestors, and helps people stay connected to their traditions and values. The eagles flying overhead are seen as a sign that the Creator is watching over everything. This shows that the Creator is present and protecting all things. The ancestors on horses show the importance of how our ancestors who have passed on also watch over us while in the spirit world.
Artwork: Vince Dumoulin
Resources:
https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/big-bear
https://treaty6education.lskysd.ca/bigbear.html
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/saskatoon/chief-big-bear-saskatchewan-1.5748860
https://news.usask.ca/articles/colleges/2019/indigenous-studies-class-develops-oral-history-inventory-for-descendants-of-big-bear.php