Separation won’t happen without a fight from First Nations

May 15, 2025 (Treaty No. 6 Territory) — Premier Smith’s government is not interested in partnership - instead, they sow division among Albertans and attack our Treaties by passing Bill 54. We will fight against separation and any ‘citizen-led’ referendum that threatens Treaty.

We have not stood idly by. We fought for amendments to Bill 54 that would have made it impossible for a separation referendum to ever move forward. Those were rejected. We made every attempt to stop Premier Smith’s government from advancing this harmful agenda, including being forced to utilize colonial and bureaucratic processes to fight for our people and lands.

First Nations have always been kind and loving, but our kindness is taken advantage of. Let us be clear: we are not subordinate to Alberta or Canada. Our relationship is Nation-to-Nation with the Crown, and that relationship must be respected.

We are all Treaty Peoples — Alberta would not exist without Treaty. When our ancestors completed the pipe ceremony, they made a sacred commitment to share the Land in Peace. The agreement stands — it is law under Creator. We will not allow colonial governments to discredit or dishonour that sacred covenant.

For the separatists, we are fully prepared to hold Smith’s government accountable in court. Our rights are affirmed and protected by Section 35 of the Constitution - we will not hesitate to assert them. Our sacred Treaty will not be undone by the thoughtless and careless actions of a loud minority. You cannot undermine our rights or our future.

To our community members, supporters, and leaders who stood with us and showed their solidarity with Treaty No. 6, No. 7 and No. 8 today at the legislature — thank you. Your presence, strength, and kindness sent a powerful message: Treaty is not history - it is a living agreement that binds us all.

Treaty is forever — Treaty No. 6 will last as long as the sun shines, the grass grows and the rivers flow.

Aiy hiy,

Grand Chief Greg Desjarlais