Premier says mistake fixed after First Nations removed from Alberta Day statement

On Tuesday, Alberta's Premier Danielle Smith faced backlash after two distinct messages were released regarding Alberta Day, marking the province's 121st birthday. At 10 a.m., her official statement emphasized inclusion, cultural recognition, and community. However, less than an hour later, a longer message highlighted Alberta's economic achievements, identity, freedom, and sovereignty.

Crucially, the second statement omitted any mention of Indigenous Peoples and their role in the province's development. The omission of Indigenous Peoples was replaced with a broader statement celebrating the people, stories, and traditions that have shaped Alberta. Premier Smith claimed the change was due to a "glitch" by public servants and urged them to revert to the original statement.

Critics, however, expressed concern and frustration over the removal of Indigenous recognition, especially amid ongoing Indigenous relations tensions and a looming referendum on Alberta separation. Treaty 8 Sovereign First Nations Grand Chief Trevor Mercredi criticized the government for advancing separation-related initiatives that challenge Treaty rights and called for respect for First Nations in the government's words, actions, and relationships.

The Opposition NDP also expressed skepticism, suggesting that the premier and her staff were attempting to shift blame, particularly noting that the premier's own Twitter account initially posted the statement without Indigenous Peoples. Political scientists and Indigenous leaders pointed out that this error could further contribute to the perception that respect for Indigenous perspectives in Alberta's government is insufficient.