An Alberta chief emphasized the need for increased respect from the provincial government on Monday, following the absence of its Indigenous relations minister at 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, expressed disappointment over the government’s lack of representation, stating that it sends a negative message regarding reconciliation efforts.
Speaking at Edmonton City Hall, Pete underscored the importance of government officials engaging with Indigenous communities to foster understanding and respect for treaties. He questioned the absence of the minister of Indigenous relations at the commemorative event, highlighting it as a missed opportunity for meaningful dialogue and reconciliation.
The event, organized by the City of Edmonton and Mayor Andrew Knack, featured Indigenous leaders and elders participating in traditional 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 reiterated the Crown’s commitment to the treaty in her address, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and reconciliation. While the absence of Indigenous Relations Minister Rajan Sawhney was noted, her office issued a statement affirming a dedication to maintaining strong relationships with Indigenous communities.
Sawhney’s press secretary, Karah Folk, acknowledged the significance of the 150th anniversary and the need for reflection on history while looking to the future. Folk assured ongoing engagement with Treaty 6 First Nations and Indigenous leaders despite Sawhney’s absence at the event.
Chief Pete expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s focus on issues like pipelines over meaningful reconciliation efforts and equitable partnerships with Indigenous communities. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples, calling for greater government involvement in honoring treaty commitments.
Following the anniversary event, Arcand-Paul commented on the strained treaty relationship amid the province’s separatism movement, urging elected officials to prioritize representing all constituents. The event in Edmonton marked the beginning of a series of commemorative activities throughout the week, culminating in a re-enactment of the historic treaty signing at Fort Carlton in Saskatchewan.