First Nations Deliver Unanimous “Absolutely Not” to Separatist Daydreams

First Nations chiefs across Alberta have unanimously passed a vote of non-confidence in the provincial government, delivering a rebuke that was formally worded but difficult to mistake.

In a joint release, the Assembly of Treaty Chiefs of Treaty No. 6, Treaty No. 7, Treaty No. 8 said the United Conservative Party government has shown an “inability to responsibly and respectfully govern,” particularly amid renewed separatist rhetoric they suggest ignores treaty realities.

Speaking to CBC News, Trevor Mercredi said the chiefs felt compelled to put the government “on notice,” calling the situation “completely unacceptable”, a remark delivered with careful restraint.

The assembly met Thursday in Enoch Cree Nation, where leaders questioned how any province could contemplate leaving Canada without first addressing constitutionally protected treaty rights.

Premier Danielle Smith has not directly responded to the vote. Indigenous Relations Minister Rajan Sawhney said the province remains committed to reconciliation and to upholding Section 35 of the Constitution, which affirms existing Aboriginal and treaty rights.

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