An Indigenous leader in Alberta is demanding more respect from the provincial government following the absence of the Indigenous relations minister at a significant event commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Treaty 6 signing.
Joey Pete, the grand chief of the Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations, expressed disappointment over the lack of representation from Premier Danielle Smith’s administration, stating that it sends a strong message.
The event, held at Edmonton City Hall and hosted by Mayor Andrew Knack, featured Indigenous dignitaries participating in ceremonies while government officials delivered speeches. Among the attendees were Alberta Lt.-Gov. Salma Lakhani and federal Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience Eleanor Olszewski, who also addressed the gathering.
Pete highlighted his concerns about the upcoming Alberta separation referendum and pipeline construction discussions, emphasizing the need for dialogue, which he feels the province has not prioritized.
Responding to the criticism, Indigenous Relations Minister Rajan Sawhney’s office acknowledged her absence but affirmed a commitment to maintaining positive relationships with Indigenous communities.
A statement from the Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations revealed that invitations were extended to all levels of government, including Minister Sawhney, for the event, but they were notified of her unavailability due to being away for the week.
The event at city hall marked the commencement of a series of activities in Edmonton to observe the anniversary, including a re-enactment of the treaty signing. Additional events are scheduled for the weekend at Fort Carlton in Saskatchewan, the location where the historic treaty was originally signed.
