Siksika Health Services Joins Siksika Akokatsin
Siksika Nation’s annual Akokatsin (Sundance) is a most sacred time of the year, considered a celebration of our Siksika way of life, and the beginning of a new year. At this year’s Akokatsin, Siksika Health Services’ CEO, Angie Sarsons, received prayers and was honored with a traditional name, joining another of our Siksika Health team members, Taryn, part of our communications team, who also stepped forward to receive this meaningful recognition.
This involvement was made possible through Siksika Health Services’ Traditional Wellness program, part of our broader Community Wellness initiative, which supported the Akokatsin and requested prayers for our Siksika Health Board of Directors, new management team, our staff, and entire Siksika Nation community.
“Receiving a traditional name in ceremony is a moment I will carry for the rest of my life. I’m grateful beyond words to be welcomed and recognized in this way. Having been CEO with Siksika Health Services for four months now, I can absolutely affirm my care for this community, and as leaders I believe we must actively participate in the traditions that guide us, not just support them in policy. I will honor this name with respect, love, and responsibility, and thank everyone who has made space for me and shared such a sacred part of our community culture.”
~ Angie Sarsons, CEO Siksika Health Services
Our Siksika ways and cultural traditions serve as a vital pillar, connecting us to our roots and guiding our path forward. When our leadership and teams actively participate in these sacred practices, it reinforces our values and shows genuine respect for the customs that shape who we are as people, as an organization, community, and Strong Nation. This involvement strengthens the bonds between our workplace culture and our traditional heritage, creating a more unified and purposeful environment for everyone.
Many thanks to all who made this possible: Herman Yellow Old Woman, Kent Ayoungman, Joanne Red Old Man, Leanne Sleigh (Traditional Wellness Coordinator), Pauline Yellow Fly (Community Wellness Team Leader), Jackie Weasel Fat, Maryann Buckskin, Crystal Sparrow, Tangee Scalplock, Jennifer Kohlhammer, and more. We encourage all staff and community members to watch for future ceremony announcements. These events are open to everyone, and participation is always welcomed. By coming together in these traditional practices, we continue building bridges between our professional missions, and the cultural foundation that supports and inspires our work.
