An Indigenous artifact may soon be moved to a National Park near Edmonton
An Indigenous artifact currently at the Royal Alberta Museum may soon be moved to a National Park east of Edmonton, where it would remain under Indigenous care.
Parks Canada and the Manitou Asinîy – Iniskim – Tsa Xani Centre (MAITX) have signed a Letter of Intent to establish a permanent home for the Manitou Asinîy (the Manitou Stone) in a future cultural centre in Elk Island National Park.
The Stone is a 145 kg iron meteorite known by several names, including Manitou Asinîy, awâsis kôhtakocihk kîsikohk (the child who fell from the sky), the Iron Stone, the Iron Creek Meteorite, Manitou Stone and others. It carries deep spiritual significance for many Indigenous Nations and is regarded as a sacred living being tied to healing, protection, and ceremony.
The move marks a key step in returning the artifact to Indigenous stewardship and reconnecting it to the land, which Parks Canada says is central to reconciliation.
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As part of the process, MAITX will work with Parks Canada on site assessments and environmental impact assessments under the Canada National Parks Act. The results will determine whether a secure facility can be built in the park to house and honour the Stone.
Until then, the stone will remain at the Royal Alberta Museum, where it continues to be cared for and accessible to Indigenous peoples, Parks Canada says.
Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages Steven Guilbeault reaffirmed the federal commitment during a September meeting with MAITX.
Representatives for the Manitou Asinîy – Iniskim – Tsa Xani (MAITX) Centre and the Government of Canada pose together following a ceremony for Manitou Asinîy at its current home at the Royal Alberta Museum (Parks Canada)
Parks Canada says Elk Island is uniquely positioned to support the reconnection of Indigenous peoples to the Manitou Asinîy by returning it to an area where buffalo still roam.
You can learn more about the Manitou Asinîy on the Royal Alberta Museum website.