150th anniversary of Treaty 6 to be commemorated

On this 150th anniversary of Treaty 6, First Nations chiefs and dignitaries are set to gather at Fort Carlton, Saskatchewan, to commemorate the historic agreement. The treaty, signed in the wilderness of what is now Saskatchewan, laid the foundation for how First Nations and Canada would coexist as Canada evolved into the modern nation it is today.

Federal Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister Rebecca Alty emphasized the need to recognize the resilience and vibrancy of Treaty 6 Nations, highlighting the government's commitment to addressing past harms and injustices. Canada, a nation barely formed at the time of the treaty's signing, had a significant stake in the agreement, which covered much of central Alberta and Saskatchewan.

As relationships between Indigenous leaders and the Alberta government deteriorate over the province's proposed separation vote, First Nations have staunchly opposed the movement, accusing the premier of acting treasonously. The province's premier, Danielle Smith, has defended the referendum, arguing for the voices of Albertans to be heard.

The fracture was highlighted when Grand Chief Joey Pete of the Confederacy of Treaty 6 First Nations criticized Premier Smith's government for missing an event commemorating the treaty anniversary. Alberta's Indigenous Relations Minister, Rajan Sawhney, acknowledged the minister's absence but reaffirmed the commitment to the relationship.

Meanwhile, Saskatchewan's government relations minister, Eric Schmalz, expressed excitement about recognizing Treaty 6, calling it one of the country's most important documents. Schmalz, attending the anniversary festivities with Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe, emphasized the strong relationship between the provincial government and First Nations, stating that collaboration on various issues is a priority.