The Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI), a beacon of cultural preservation and education in the heart of Washington, D.C., recently unveiled a captivating exhibition dedicated to the rich history and vibrant culture of the Blackfeet Tribe of Montana. This exhibit, titled "We Are the Continuum of Creation," offers visitors a profound journey into the Blackfeet world, exploring their origin stories, historical encounters, and enduring connection to the land. It is a celebration of resilience, adaptation, and the unbroken thread of Blackfeet identity through generations.
The exhibit serves as a powerful testament to the Blackfeet Nation’s enduring presence on their ancestral lands and their commitment to preserving their cultural heritage. It is a collaborative effort, bringing together the expertise of Smithsonian curators and the knowledge and perspectives of Blackfeet community members. Through carefully selected artifacts, compelling narratives, and evocative imagery, "We Are the Continuum of Creation" provides a multifaceted understanding of the Blackfeet experience, challenging stereotypes and fostering a deeper appreciation for their unique cultural contributions.
The exhibit’s title, "We Are the Continuum of Creation," itself speaks volumes about the Blackfeet worldview. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of all things, the cyclical nature of life, and the tribe’s understanding of themselves as integral to the ongoing process of creation. This philosophy permeates every aspect of Blackfeet culture, from their spiritual beliefs to their daily practices.
One of the exhibit’s highlights is the presentation of the Blackfeet creation story, a foundational narrative that explains the origin of the world, the emergence of the Blackfeet people, and their relationship to the natural environment. This story, passed down through generations, provides a framework for understanding Blackfeet values, beliefs, and social structures. It underscores the importance of respect for the land, reverence for the Creator (Napi), and the responsibility to maintain balance and harmony in the world.
The introduction of the horse in the 1700s marked a significant turning point in Blackfeet history. The exhibit explores the transformative impact of the horse on Blackfeet society, revolutionizing their hunting practices, expanding their territory, and enhancing their military capabilities. The horse became an integral part of Blackfeet life, deeply intertwined with their cultural identity and economic prosperity. The exhibit showcases the intricate relationship between the Blackfeet people and their horses, highlighting the skills, knowledge, and spiritual significance associated with horsemanship.
The tepee, or lodge, holds a central place in Blackfeet culture, serving as both a dwelling and a symbol of identity. The exhibit delves into the profound connection between the lodge and the environment, explaining how its design, construction, and use reflect Blackfeet knowledge of the natural world. The tepee is not merely a shelter but a microcosm of the Blackfeet universe, embodying their values of family, community, and spiritual connection. The exhibit showcases the artistry and craftsmanship involved in creating a tepee, highlighting the intricate designs and symbolic meanings embedded in its structure.
A particularly poignant element of the exhibition is the inclusion of an original copy of the 1855 Treaty of Lame Bull, on loan from the National Archives. This document, bearing the marks of Blackfeet leaders like Mountain Chief, Low Horn, Little Gray Head, and Little Dog, serves as a stark reminder of the complex and often fraught relationship between the Blackfeet Nation and the U.S. government. The treaty, while initially intended to foster peaceful coexistence, ultimately paved the way for the erosion of Blackfeet land and sovereignty.
The treaty, while not initially ceding land, granted the U.S. government permission to construct roads, telegraph lines, and military posts within Blackfeet territory, effectively establishing a foothold in their homeland. Subsequent treaties drastically reduced the Blackfeet’s land base from 26 million acres to a mere 1.5 million acres, a devastating loss that continues to impact the tribe today.
The inclusion of the treaty in the exhibit provides a crucial opportunity for visitors to confront the historical injustices faced by the Blackfeet people and to understand the long-term consequences of broken promises and violated agreements. It is a reminder of the importance of honoring treaty obligations and respecting the sovereignty of Indigenous nations.
Jackie Parsons, a Blackfeet curator and chief judge of the Blackfeet Appellate Court, shared her emotional response to seeing the treaty on display. Her words capture the deep sense of sorrow and injustice felt by many Blackfeet people when confronted with the history of their interactions with the U.S. government. Her perspective underscores the importance of including Indigenous voices in the interpretation of their own history and culture.
One of the key messages conveyed by the Montana’s Blackfeet Tribe celebrated in Smithsonian exhibit is the Blackfeet Nation’s continued presence on their ancestral lands. Unlike many other tribes who were forcibly removed from their homelands, the Blackfeet have maintained a strong connection to their territory, despite the challenges and hardships they have faced. This enduring presence is a testament to their resilience, their determination to preserve their cultural heritage, and their deep spiritual connection to the land.
Carol Murray, a co-curator of the exhibit, emphasized the role of Napi, the Creator, in bestowing the land upon the Blackfeet people. She highlighted the tribe’s unwavering commitment to preserving their world, despite the forces that have sought to displace them. Her words underscore the spiritual dimension of Blackfeet identity and their profound sense of responsibility to care for the land.
The 1855 treaty, due to its fragile nature, will be displayed for a limited time of six months to minimize its exposure to light. A replica will then take its place, ensuring that the story of the treaty remains a central part of the exhibit. The Montana’s Blackfeet Tribe celebrated in Smithsonian exhibit is expected to remain on display for at least two years, providing ample opportunity for visitors to learn about the Blackfeet Nation.
The Montana’s Blackfeet Tribe celebrated in Smithsonian exhibit is part of a larger exhibition titled "Our Peoples: Giving Voices to Our Histories," which aims to showcase the diverse experiences and perspectives of Native American tribes across the United States. This broader context underscores the importance of recognizing the unique histories and cultures of each individual tribe and of amplifying Indigenous voices in the telling of their own stories.
The development of the Montana’s Blackfeet Tribe celebrated in Smithsonian exhibit has been a long and collaborative process, reflecting the Smithsonian’s commitment to working in partnership with Native American communities. The exhibit stands as a testament to the enduring strength and resilience of the Blackfeet Nation and their commitment to preserving their cultural heritage for future generations.