The 2026 North American Orienteering Championships take place on the traditional territories of many Indigenous Nations whose relationship with this land extends back time immemorial. Events in the Bow Valley and Calgary are held on the lands of the Blackfoot Confederacy — Siksika, Kainai, and Piikani — the Tsuut’ina Nation, and the Stoney Nakoda Nations — Chiniki, Bearspaw, and Goodstoney — who are signatories to Treaty 7. Events in the Rumsey Natural Area take place on lands within Treaty 6. We also recognize the Métis Nation of Alberta Region 3. 

We recognize that these lands have long been places of gathering, travel, ceremony, and stewardship. We honour the enduring presence, knowledge, and leadership of Indigenous Peoples, and we acknowledge the ongoing responsibility we all share in advancing understanding, respect, and meaningful reconciliation.

As orienteers, we move through forests, grasslands, and foothills that hold deep cultural, spiritual, and ecological significance. We are committed to planning and delivering this championship with care for the land — minimizing our environmental impact, respecting sensitive areas, and upholding the principles of stewardship that have guided this place for generations. We are grateful for the opportunity to gather here and strive to do so with humility and respect.

We encourage participants and visitors who wish to deepen their understanding of the history, cultures, and ongoing presence of Indigenous Peoples in this region to explore the following resources:

• Indigenous Tourism Alberta – Cultural experiences, education, and Indigenous-led tourism initiatives across the province.
  indigenoustourismalberta.ca

• National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation – Resources on the history and legacy of residential schools and pathways toward reconciliation.
  nctr.ca

• Government of Canada – Treaties and Agreements – Background on historic and modern treaties in Canada.
  www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca