An Indigenous leader in Alberta expressed disappointment with the provincial government for not attending a significant event commemorating the 150th anniversary of the signing of Treaty 6. Joey Pete, the grand chief of the Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations, emphasized the need for respect and dialogue to achieve true reconciliation.
The event, held at Edmonton City Hall and organized by the City of Edmonton and Mayor Andrew Knack, featured ceremonies, drumming, dancing, and the raising of the Treaty 6 flag. Various government officials, including federal Emergency Management Minister Eleanor Olszewski, Conservative member of Parliament Billy Morin, Alberta NDP Indigenous relations critic Brooks Arcand-Paul, and the mayor, delivered speeches and exchanged gifts.
Alberta Lt.-Gov. Salma Lakhani reaffirmed the Crown’s commitment to the treaty during her speech. Although Indigenous Relations Minister Rajan Sawhney was not present, her office stated her ongoing commitment to maintaining strong relationships with Indigenous communities.
Pete expressed concerns about the lack of meaningful engagement from the Alberta government, particularly regarding issues like the upcoming referendum on separatism and pipeline developments. He emphasized the importance of collaboration and dialogue for progress and called for more attention to reconciliation efforts.
Arcand-Paul highlighted the strained treaty relationship amid the province’s focus on separatism, emphasizing the importance of elected officials representing their constituents despite political challenges. The event in Edmonton marked the beginning of a series of planned commemorations throughout the week to honor the historic treaty signing.