The Kainaiwa Band/Blood Tribe app is now available

The Káínai, also known as the Blood Tribe and signing as Blood Tribe/Kainaiwa, are the Tribe of Many Chiefs. They are one of three Nations that form the Blackfoot Confederacy, along with the Siksika and Piikani. Their tradition holds that the Creator, Napi, placed them on this territory.

In 1877, Mi'k ai'stoowa (Red Crow), clan leader of the Mamio-yiksi (Fish Eaters Clan) and chief of the Kainai, signed Treaty 7. He negotiated for the Blood Tribe to live in the area traditionally known as the Belly Buttes. Today the Nation's lands lie between the Belly, Oldman and St. Mary Rivers, southwest of Lethbridge, and include two reserves:

• Blood 148, the largest First Nation reserve by area in Canada
• Blood 148A

The Sun Dance is still central to community life, and the Nation is proud of its long rodeo traditions. Social programs follow the principles of Kainayssini. Community services include income assistance, job training, a disability program, a community patrol and Red Crow Community College.

The economy is based on agriculture, and wheat is the main crop. Cattle ranching, oil and gas, small businesses and Kainai Forage, which exports hay, also support the community. Learn more at bloodtribe.org.