An Alberta Indigenous leader expressed disappointment with the provincial government on Monday for not sending its Indigenous relations minister to a significant event marking the 150th anniversary of the signing of Treaty 6. Joey Pete, the grand chief of the Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations, emphasized the importance of government representatives showing respect and engaging in dialogue with Indigenous communities for genuine reconciliation to occur.
The commemorative event held at Edmonton City Hall, organized by the City of Edmonton and Mayor Andrew Knack, featured Indigenous leaders and elders participating in traditional ceremonies, drumming, dancing, and the hoisting 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 reiterated the Crown’s commitment to the treaty in her speech, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and reconciliation on the shared lands. Meanwhile, Alberta Indigenous Relations Minister Rajan Sawhney’s office stated that despite her absence, she remains dedicated to maintaining strong relationships with Indigenous communities. The minister’s press secretary, Karah Folk, acknowledged the significance of the 150th anniversary and highlighted the ongoing engagement with Treaty 6 First Nations during this important period.
While Pete expressed concerns about the lack of meaningful communication and engagement from the Alberta government on critical issues such as the upcoming referendum on separatism and pipeline development, Arcand-Paul emphasized the importance of elected officials fulfilling their responsibilities to represent all constituents, regardless of political challenges.
Despite the strained relationship due to recent political tensions, the event in Edmonton marked the beginning of a series of commemorative activities planned for the anniversary week, culminating in a re-enactment of the historic treaty signing. The original Treaty 6 signing took place at Fort Carlton in Saskatchewan on August 23, 1876, covering vast territories in central Alberta and central Saskatchewan. Additional commemorative events are scheduled to continue at Fort Carlton over the weekend.
