Story shared by Hayley Roulstone
On May 8, 2025, Annie and I had the opportunity to sit down with leaders from an organization we are honoured to partner with, the Honouring Traditions and Reconciliation Society (HTRS), a grassroots Indigenous-led organization based in Sikoohkotoki on Blackfoot Confederacy lands (Lethbridge, Alberta and area). Our conversation reflected on the Society’s mission, recent achievements, and the growing momentum of its annual Powwow & Artisan Expo, while celebrating the deep cultural leadership of Theron and Cindy Black.
Meet the Founders, Theron and Cindy Black
Theron Black, President and co-founder of the HTRS, is a proud member of the Kainai First Nation. With degrees in Addictions and Mental Health Counselling, Indigenous Social Work, and a Master of Education in Educational Research from the University of Calgary, Theron facilitates cultural arts and healing workshops that empower community members to reconnect with culture as a path to wellness. Cindy Black, co-founder and Board Member of the HTRS brings a rich background in Native American Studies, Indigenous Social Work, and Educational Research. An Ojibway woman from Peguis, Manitoba, Cindy is now rooted in Blood Tribe territory through family and community. Currently a Senior Research Assistant at the University of Lethbridge, she is also on a journey to further her education through doctoral studies.
Healing in Action
HTRS is more than an organization, it is a movement grounded in ceremony, storytelling, and Indigenous ways of knowing. Healing from grief and addiction is central to their work. This includes hosting inclusive, community powwows and wellness programming for those impacted by the opioid crisis.
In collaboration with Alberta Health Services (AHS), the Society has supported community members transitioning off opioids, reaching over 5,000 individuals in the past year. Thanks to renewed AHS funding, this critical work continues, meeting people where they are and offering culturally safe spaces for recovery and connection.
In 2024, the HTRS was the recipient of the Health Quality Council of Alberta’s Patient Experience Award. This award is a testament to their commitment to meaningful, community-driven impact. As the organization continues to evolve, new leaders step forward while others transition on, ensuring fresh energy and continuity in their mission.
Third Annual Honouring Traditions Powwow & Artisan Expo
Mark your calendars for the 3rd Annual Honouring Traditions Powwow & Artisan Expo, September 13-14, 2025, in Lethbridge, Alberta. This powerful gathering celebrates Indigenous cultures through dance, art, and ceremony. The Annual Honouring Traditions Powwow & Artisan Expo is open to all ages and brings together community members, Elders, artisans, and allies in the spirit of Reconciliation and celebration during the month of September, just before the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30.
At Rise, we’re honoured to walk alongside organizations like the HTRS who are doing the hard and beautiful work of healing, educating, and building pathways to a more just future. Last September, Rise team members had the opportunity to volunteer at the 2nd Annual Honouring Traditions Powwow & Artisan Expo in Lethbridge and we look forward to doing so again this year.
Learn more here: https://www.htrsociety.org/powwow-artisan-expo.