Alberta First Nations Chiefs Unanimously Pass Vote of Non-Confidence in UCP Government
In a historic move, First Nations chiefs from across Alberta have unanimously passed a vote of non-confidence in Premier Danielle Smith's United Conservative Party (UCP) government. This decisive action, taken during a meeting at the River Cree Resort in Enoch, Alberta, reflects deep-seated concerns over growing separatist sentiment and the provincial government's perceived failure to uphold Treaty responsibilities.
Unanimous Decision Driven by Treaty Concerns
The Assembly of Treaty Chiefs (AOTC), representing leaders from Treaty 6, 7, and 8 nations, formally declared they have no trust or confidence in the UCP administration. In a statement, the Assembly criticized the government for its "refusal to respond appropriately to the current political atmosphere" on Treaty territories and for repeatedly acting with "a lack of critical understanding and respect" for Treaty-based and governance duties.
Tsuut'ina Nation Head Chief Ellery Starlight emphasized that the unanimous decision was partly motivated by what leaders view as unconstitutional efforts to advance Alberta's separation from Canada. "All Chiefs of Alberta have united at the AOTC gathering to take swift action against Premier Danielle Smith and her unconstitutional exercise to separate Alberta from the Crown through a unanimous vote of non-confidence," Starlight stated, highlighting the sacred nature of Treaty agreements.
Call for Legislative Action and Broader Opposition
The chiefs have called on members of the Alberta Legislature, including UCP, NDP, and Independent MLAs, to "officially and expeditiously" declare a vote of non-confidence in the government within the legislative assembly. This move underscores the urgency of addressing what they see as a breach of trust and a threat to Indigenous rights.
The Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs echoed these concerns, pointing to the provincial government's apparent support of separatist rhetoric. "The Blackfoot Confederacy continues to oppose efforts to promote Alberta separation from Canada, and cannot support a government that encourages this," they said in a statement. "We stand with other Treaty Nations in firm opposition to all efforts to undermine and erode the foundations of our Treaty Relationship. Our Treaties are with the Crown and are sacred. Our Rights are non-negotiable."
Government Response and Ongoing Tensions
As of the announcement, Rajan Sawhney, the UCP's Minister of Indigenous Relations, had not immediately responded to requests for comment. This silence adds to the growing tensions between the provincial government and Indigenous communities, who stress the lifelong covenant of Treaties as foundational to Canada's establishment.
Chief Starlight reiterated this point, noting, "All Chiefs are well aware of and respect the lifelong covenant that contributed to the establishment of Canada through our Treaties — as long as the sun shines, grass grows, and the rivers flow, we remain connected as neighbors and partners with all humans on this land." The unanimous vote signals a unified stance among Alberta's First Nations, demanding greater accountability and respect for Treaty obligations from the UCP government.
