Calgary – The Calgary Stampede crowned the 2016 Indian Princess Sunday afternoon. The event celebrated the traditions of the Treaty 7 First Nations. Vanessa Stiffarm received the crown and title following the final speech and traditional dance competitions.
Stiffarm, 25, from the Blood Tribe, wowed the judges with her incredible poise and beautiful Jingle Dress dancing.
Each year a young woman from one of the five tribes of Treaty 7 (Tsuut’ina, Piikani, Stoney, Blood Tribe and Siksika Nations) is chosen to stand as the official representative of Indian Village presented by Penn West Exploration and the Calgary Stampede.
As an official Calgary Stampede ambassador, the Indian Princess will make numerous appearances and will educate those she meets about the rich and colourful First Nations culture. She embraces the legacy of the iconic Indian Princess title and will go forth with honour and pride as she represents the five tribes of Treaty 7, the Indian Village and the Calgary Stampede.
About the Calgary Stampede
The Calgary Stampede celebrates the people, the animals, the land, the traditions and the values that make up the unique spirit of the west. The Calgary Stampede contributes to the quality of life in Calgary and southern Alberta through our world-renowned Stampede, year-round facilities, western events and several youth and agriculture programs. Exemplifying the theme We’re Greatest Together, we are a volunteer-supported, not-for-profit community organization that preserves and celebrates our western heritage, cultures and community spirit. All revenue is reinvested into Calgary Stampede programs and facilities.