First Nations across Treaty 6 territory are commemorating the 150th anniversary of the 1876 agreement with the Crown this month. However, the upcoming Alberta independence referendum is overshadowing these celebrations for some.
The fall referendum in Alberta includes a question on whether the province should remain part of Canada or proceed with a binding referendum on separation. This question is causing concern among many First Nations individuals who fear it may jeopardize their treaty rights and other entitlements.
Grand Chief Joey Pete of the Confederacy of Treaty 6 First Nations, representing Alberta’s nations, expressed plans to encourage First Nations to vote and participate in the referendum discussions. He emphasized that the treaty’s significance is unrelated to Alberta, as the province acts as a representative of the Crown in the agreement.
The treaty safeguards various rights for First Nations, such as healthcare, education, and the freedom to hunt and sustain themselves from the land. Janice Makokis, an assistant law professor from Saddle Lake Cree Nation, underscored Canada’s fiduciary obligation to act in the best interests of First Nations.
While a separatist group initiated a petition for Alberta’s independence last year, ongoing legal battles between First Nations and the province have emerged over concerns of inadequate consultation and threats to treaty rights. Despite these challenges, the Confederacy of Treaty 6 First Nations organized a series of events leading up to the treaty’s anniversary.
Treaty 6, signed in 1876 at Fort Carlton, spans central Alberta and Saskatchewan, with additional First Nations later joining from Manitoba. Dwayne Donald, a Canada Research Chair and education professor, emphasized the treaty’s role in Alberta’s integration into Canada’s legal framework.
Amid discussions of separatism, assurances have been made by separatist groups regarding the protection of First Nations’ rights in an independent Alberta. However, some First Nations leaders remain committed to maintaining their existing relationships with the Crown and Canada.
While acknowledging the historical significance of Treaty 6 and the land it covers, Donald highlighted the often overlooked history of Edmonton’s First Nations in discussions on separatism. He emphasized the importance of recognizing and respecting the Indigenous presence and heritage in the region.
In summary, the ongoing debate surrounding Alberta’s independence referendum has raised complex issues related to treaty rights, Indigenous sovereignty, and the historical context of First Nations in the province.
