An Alberta Indigenous leader expressed disappointment with the provincial government on Monday for the absence of the Indigenous relations minister at a significant event marking the 150th anniversary of the Treaty 6 signing. Joey Pete, the grand chief of the Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations, emphasized the need for respect and engagement from Premier Danielle Smith’s government to advance true reconciliation efforts.
Pete highlighted the absence of the minister of Indigenous relations and questioned the government’s commitment to reconciliation, stating that genuine understanding and respect towards Indigenous communities are essential. The commemorative event, organized by the City of Edmonton and Mayor Andrew Knack, featured traditional ceremonies, drumming, dancing, and the raising of the Treaty 6 flag. Various government officials, including federal Emergency Management Minister Eleanor Olszewski, Conservative MP Billy Morin, and Alberta NDP Indigenous relations critic Brooks Arcand-Paul, delivered speeches and exchanged gifts.
Alberta Lt.-Gov. Salma Lakhani reiterated the Crown’s dedication to the treaty and emphasized the importance of mutual respect and reconciliation on the shared lands. Despite the absence of Indigenous Relations Minister Rajan Sawhney, her office assured a commitment to maintaining strong relationships with Indigenous communities. Karah Folk, Sawhney’s press secretary, emphasized the significance of the 150th anniversary and the ongoing engagement with Treaty 6 First Nations leaders.
Pete expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of meaningful communication and dialogue from the provincial government, particularly amid concerns about the upcoming referendum on separatism and pipeline development. The focus on pipelines instead of reconciliation, revenue sharing, and equity with Indigenous communities within Treaty 6 was noted as a significant issue by Pete.
Brooks Arcand-Paul commented on the strained treaty relationship due to the current separatism push in the province, emphasizing the importance of elected officials representing their constituents despite political challenges. The event in Edmonton marked the beginning of a series of commemorative activities scheduled throughout the week to honor the anniversary of the Treaty 6 signing, with more events planned in the upcoming days at Fort Carlton in Saskatchewan.