An Indigenous chief from Canada who welcomed the world’s leaders at the Group of Seven summit expressed his “filled with rage” and contemplated quitting even before the arrival of President Trump, claiming that Trump had “caused much pain and suffering in the world.”
In contrast, Steven Crowchild prayed, spoke with the elders of his people, and decided to remain on the tarmac for a lengthy meeting with Trump, in the hopes that the latter will give greater attention to the promotion of peace, the protection of pure water, and other concerns important to Canada’s First Nation peoples.
Crowchild recalled his extended contact with Trump on Sunday night in Calgary for the G7 in neighboring Kananaskis, telling The Associated Press, “It was really intense, to say the least.” Monday was the event. “For Father’s Day, I was not expecting to meet world leaders, let alone the person responsible for so much human misery and suffering,” the speaker said.
The term “First Nations” describes one of three distinct indigenous peoples in Canada who have received official recognition. As an elected member of the Tsuut’ina Nation Xakujaa-yina and Chief and Council, Crowchild represents the Tsuut’ina First Nation and is an Isgiya of the Tsuut’ina people.
Crowchild proudly displayed feathered headgear, which he said gave him strength, and presented Trump treaty medals, which he informed the president were older than Canada itself. He also spoke in his people’s native language. Both sides chose not to comment on the specifics of what was said, but Trump, donning a white “Make America Great Again” cap, seemed to listen intently.
I nearly left when it came to that one person. Crowchild mentioned that he was consumed by anger. I was planning to return home since I didn’t want to disturb my people with any bad vibes. Because of the importance of maintaining a public profile and exercising restraint, I listened to the advice of those closest to me and stayed put.
Although he was aware that “no Indigenous representation was there at the time,” Crowchild stated that he “prayed to my creator” and “really thought of those suffering around the world” before choosing to speak to Trump.
He spoke about his preference for peace over conflict.
“Tried to remind each one of them to try to be a good leader and protect our water for future generations,” Crowchild said of greeting Trump and other arriving foreign leaders.
Noting that he talked of “protecting water for future generations” and “promoting peace” and sought to “say as much as I could, as wisely as I could, while representing with honor and dignity,” Crowchild explained that he spoke on behalf of his elders. Only time will reveal if he paid attention.
In the end, he claimed, the president of the United States is “just another person.”
According to Crowchild, there are several reasons why he is considered a bad guy. “As the proud Tsuut’ina Isgiya, I towered over him.”
