A gathering of over a dozen First Nations chiefs, along with numerous band councillors and elders, took place at the Alberta legislature on Monday. They urged Premier Danielle Smith’s administration to combat the movement for Alberta to break away from Canada.
“Our rights are being disregarded,” emphasized Grand Chief Trevor Mercredi of the Confederacy of Treaty 8 First Nations during a press briefing.
Following a unanimous decision by First Nations chiefs from across the province, a call was made for a non-confidence vote against the government, citing its handling of the separatist movement as one of the reasons.
Although Opposition NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi presented a motion for the vote on Monday, it was swiftly rejected by Smith’s majority United Conservative Party government.
Government House leader Joseph Schow labeled the motion as a “political maneuver” and questioned Nenshi’s stance on direct democracy.
“Who does Nenshi think he is to suggest that Albertans should not have the right to express their opinions?” Schow challenged the assembly.
Expressing frustration, chiefs and other Indigenous leaders in attendance shouted at the politicians to condemn separatism before exiting the premises.
Chief Kelsey Jacko of Cold Lake First Nations described the non-confidence vote as an effort to “hold the premier accountable.”
“Regardless of our efforts, [Smith] appears to be deaf to our concerns,” Jacko expressed outside the legislature.
“We have been attempting to collaborate with her and her caucus for years now. She repeatedly claims we have a strong relationship. But how can you have a strong bond with someone who refuses to listen?”
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Mercredi acknowledged that they were aware the vote would not pass but emphasized the importance of taking a stand.
“We understood what we were up against when we arrived at this legislature,” he added.
“We have witnessed time and time again the lack of respect shown by the MLAs towards our people in those chambers when they yawn, text, lean back in their chairs, and smile. It is highly unprofessional.”
Indigenous leaders have strongly opposed the separatist movement in Alberta. Several First Nations are legally challenging provincial laws allowing citizen-initiated petitions for referendums, including the ongoing campaign for a separation vote.
While many Indigenous leaders were in Edmonton, a delegation from the Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations traveled to England to meet with King Charles.
A right to engage
In a news release, Grand Chief