Alberta First Nations Chiefs Reject Premier’s Criticism, Reaffirm Opposition to Separation Referendum

EDMONTON — Alberta First Nations leaders have strongly rejected comments made by Premier Danielle Smith regarding Indigenous concerns over the province’s proposed separation referendum, arguing that treaty rights and constitutional obligations cannot be ignored in discussions about Alberta’s future within Canada.

Joey Pete, Grand Chief of the Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations, said Indigenous leaders have every right to raise concerns about actions that could affect treaty relationships and constitutional protections.

“Albertans as well, and infringing on the Constitution that built the framework of Canada,” Pete stated. “Her and her government need to check themselves, and remember who they work for.”

The comments come amid growing tensions surrounding Alberta’s upcoming referendum scheduled for October 19, where voters will decide whether the province should remain within Canada or begin the process toward a second, binding referendum on separation.

Premier Smith has repeatedly emphasized that she personally supports Alberta remaining in Canada. However, she has argued that competing public petitions both supporting and opposing separation have made it necessary to allow Albertans to express their views through a democratic vote.

The issue has sparked significant concern among Indigenous communities across the province, many of whom argue that any attempt to alter Alberta’s constitutional status must take into account treaty obligations and the rights of First Nations peoples.

The controversy has been further complicated by the Alberta government’s decision to appeal a court ruling that invalidated a separatist petition. The petition had been challenged by several Alberta First Nations, who argued that the provincial government failed to meet its duty to consult Indigenous communities before approving the initiative.

A judge ultimately ruled that the petition should not have been issued, concluding that the government neglected its constitutional responsibilities toward First Nations. Despite the ruling, the province has chosen to appeal the decision.

Indigenous leaders have remained among the most vocal critics of Alberta’s separatist movement. They argue that treaties signed between First Nations and the Crown are nation-to-nation agreements that cannot be disregarded by provincial governments.

Grand Chief Trevor Mercredi of Treaty 8 First Nations echoed those concerns, emphasizing that constitutional questions surrounding separation remain unresolved.

“Premier Smith is free to disagree with Treaty Nations calling for an RCMP investigation,” Mercredi said in a statement. “However, dismissing the concerns of Treaty Nations as ‘overwrought’ does not answer the serious constitutional and legal questions that have been raised.”

Mercredi stressed that government actions must be measured against Canada’s constitutional framework and treaty commitments.

“It is the actions of government that must be checked against the Constitution, the treaties, the rule of law, and the honour of the Crown,” he said.

The debate has drawn national attention, with Indigenous leaders warning that any attempt to separate Alberta from Canada could have profound implications for treaty rights, land agreements, and Indigenous sovereignty.

Earlier this year, Grand Chief Joey Pete travelled to the United Kingdom, where he met with King Charles III to discuss concerns surrounding Alberta’s separatist movement and its potential impact on treaty relationships.

Many First Nations leaders maintain that treaties predate the formation of Alberta and represent binding agreements with the Crown rather than the provincial government. As a result, they argue that separation discussions cannot proceed without meaningful consultation and recognition of Indigenous rights.

Despite the growing criticism, Premier Smith has called for respectful dialogue as the referendum debate continues. She has urged Albertans on both sides of the issue to engage constructively and avoid escalating tensions.

“I’ve tried to keep it respectful,” Smith said. “The way I’ve approached the two sides in this is an indication of how I would hope Albertans would approach those who they might disagree with, because this is an important discussion to have.”

As the referendum campaign intensifies, Indigenous leaders say they will continue advocating for the protection of treaty rights and constitutional principles, insisting that any discussion about Alberta’s future must include First Nations voices and honour longstanding agreements with the Crown.

Courtesy: CBC