Alberta First Nation invokes treaty clause to set up gender-affirming care safe haven
Saddle Lake Cree Nation says it aims to defy Premier Danielle Smith’s government by establishing a safe haven for gender-affirming medical care — contrary to provincial law.
The Saddle Lake Cree Nation, an Alberta First Nation located northeast of Edmonton, has invoked the "medicine chest clause" from Treaty 6 to establish a safe haven for gender-affirming medical care. This move is in defiance of Premier Danielle Smith's government, which has prohibited doctors from prescribing puberty blockers or hormone therapy to transgender and gender diverse children under 16.
Saddle Lake Chief Dale Steinhauer emphasized that all children, including trans and two-spirit children and their families, will have safety under their treaty. LGBTQ2S+ advocates, such as Senator Kristopher Wells, have applauded the First Nation's decision, stating that access to essential health care services without discrimination is a fundamental Charter and human right.
The nation is working to attract clinicians to provide care on reserve land and is fundraising to develop its health law and defend it against potential legal challenges.
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