In honour of Allan Mi’kskimmiisoka’simii “Iron Shirt” Pard
Allan (Mi’kskimmiisoka’simii “Iron Shirt”) Pard was a highly respected and beloved Piikani Nation Elder and ceremonialist, active in ceremony and numerous sacred Societies. Working for the Government of Alberta for more than 30 years, Allan was integral to a large number of Alberta Culture and Tourism initiatives and served as a senior adviser to the Ministry of Indigenous Relations. He constantly strived to bridge relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples by fostering environments of understanding and respect.
Impact
This award was created by Dr. Robert (Otahko Ponokaomitaa “Yellow Horse”) Janes and Mrs. Priscilla Janes and the University of Lethbridge to preserve the Blackfoot cultural legacies of four influential men while furthering educational opportunities for Blackfoot students.
The four awards, for both graduate and undergraduate level students from the Blackfoot Confederacy, are named in honour and in memory of Narcisse (Tatsikiistamik “Middle Bull”) Blood, Gerald (Sikapiistamix “Grey Bull”) Conaty, Allan (Mi’kskimmiisoka’simii “Iron Shirt”) Pard, and Frank (Miiksskim “Iron”) Weasel Head.