Chief calls for respect from Alberta after government misses Treaty anniversary event

Edmonton - The chief of the Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations is urging the Alberta government to show greater respect following the absence of its Indigenous relations minister from a key event celebrating the 150th anniversary of Treaty 6. The event, held at Edmonton city hall, featured Indigenous dignitaries and speeches from officials across government levels.

Joey Pete, the grand chief, expressed disappointment that the province failed to attend, citing upcoming concerns over Alberta's potential separation and pipeline development. Indigenous Relations Minister Rajan Sawhney's office stated the minister is away but remains committed to strong relationships. The anniversary is being marked by a week's worth of events in Edmonton and a re-enactment of the original signing ceremony at Fort Carlton in Saskatchewan.