The Dene Nation has expressed their strong support for First Nations of Alberta Treaty 6, 7, and 8, as they oppose the proposed referendum on Alberta’s sovereignty.
In recent years, separatist movements in Alberta have gained an increasing amount of traction. A petition would require signatures from 10 percent of voters who cast a ballot in the last general election to trigger a referendum on Alberta’s place as a part of Canada.
“We stand in solidarity with the First Nations of Alberta in their opposition to the separatist referendum that seeks to allow Alberta to secede from Canada,” said Dene National Chief George Mackenzie. “This movement not only threatens the integrity of the nation but also undermines the constitutionally protected rights of Indigenous peoples as enshrined in historical treaties.”
Alberta is home to 48 First Nations across Treaties 6, 7 and 8. These treaties are part of how Canada’s constitutional framework recognizes the right and sovereignty of Indigenous peoples. These treaties are established with the federal government, not the provincial government. Any attempt by Alberta to unilaterally secede from Canada, without the consent of these First Nations, would violate those treaties and the rights they protect.
Should a referendum come to pass and succeed, the consequences would be felt by many First Nations in Alberta, especially those in the north who depend on a strong relationship with Alberta medical supplies, travel, and other essentials.
In response to separatist groups, First Nations such as the Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation have taken action to challenge the referendum should one be held.
The Dene Nation calls for the governments of Alberta and Canada to respect the treaties that form the foundation of the nation and urge all parties to engage in meaningful dialogue to uphold the rights of Indigenous peoples.
