A gathering of Chiefs of Treaty 8 First Nations. Image via Facebook
FORT McKAY — As Alberta separatists struggle to collect nearly 178,000 signatures required by Election Alberta ahead of a May deadline, the Fort McKay First Nation is weighing in publicly on the movement.
In a social media statement, the First Nation said it does not support any intention for Alberta to separate from Canada.
The statement said Fort McKay First Nation is not subordinate to either Alberta or Canada, noting its ancestors entered into Treaty in a nation to nation relationship with the Crown. Leaders described Treaty rights as central to the Nation’s identity, dignity and inherent sovereignty, and said those rights will be asserted and protected without compromise.
The First Nation also called for a respectful and principled partnership with the Government of Alberta, one that recognizes First Nations sovereignty, advances reconciliation and reflects shared interests. It said it values its working relationship with Alberta and urged careful reflection on its position as discussions continue, including those related to Bill 54.
Fort McKay said its Chiefs stand united and in solidarity with First Nations across Alberta.
Meanwhile, a leader of Alberta’s separatist movement says some members of Premier Danielle Smith’s United Conservative Party caucus have signed the petition seeking a referendum on Alberta leaving Canada.
Jeff Rath, a lawyer for Stay Free Alberta, said Thursday he is aware of UCP members of the legislature who have signed and expects more to do so, arguing they believe Albertans should have a say in their future. Rath declined to name any caucus members or say how many have signed, citing confidentiality rules under Alberta’s petition process.
The petition asks whether Alberta should cease to be part of Canada and become an independent state. If the signature threshold is met by May, it would be up to Smith’s justice minister to refer the matter to the lieutenant governor to call a referendum.
Smith’s office deferred questions about caucus members signing the petition to the UCP caucus, which said in a statement it is focused on building a strong and sovereign Alberta within a united Canada.
Opposition NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi called on any UCP members who signed the petition to identify themselves, saying constituents deserve to know their representatives’ views on separation. He said Alberta going its own way would scare away investment and cost jobs, without solving issues such as health care or affordability.
Calls for Smith to denounce the separatist movement have also come from other premiers, following reports that separatist leaders met with U.S. officials. Smith has said she will not demonize Albertans who feel frustrated with Canada, arguing her government is focused on giving residents hope through actions rather than rhetoric.
Comments