Alberta government misses treaty anniversary event

An Alberta chief called for greater respect from the provincial government on Monday, after its Indigenous relations minister missed a major event commemorating the 150th anniversary of Treaty 6's signing. Joey Pete, the grand chief of the Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations, criticized Premier Danielle Smith's government for not sending her Indigenous Relations Minister Rajan Sawhney to the event.

Pete said the provincial government's lack of representation at the ceremony "says a lot" and "if we want true reconciliation, they need to come and sit at the table with us and understand treaty and respect us." The event, hosted by the City of Edmonton and Mayor Andrew Knack, featured Indigenous leaders and elders participating in ceremonies, drumming, dancing, and raising the Treaty 6 flag.

Knack issued a proclamation for Treaty 6 Recognition Day in Edmonton, and officials from various levels of government delivered speeches and exchanged gifts. The event marked a significant milestone, and officials expressed their commitment to maintaining strong relationships with Treaty 6 First Nations. However, Pete expressed disappointment with the province's response, citing the government's focus on a referendum on separating from Canada and discussions about building new pipelines, which he believes are not aligned with reconciliation.

He also noted that Indigenous leaders have opposed the referendum and tried to stop it in court. Pete emphasized the need for the provincial government to sit down with Treaty 6 leaders to address issues like revenue sharing and equity pieces. Indigenous Relations Minister Rajan Sawhney's office stated that she was away but committed to maintaining strong relationships, though her press secretary did not clarify her whereabouts.