An Indigenous leader in Alberta expressed disappointment with the provincial government’s lack of representation 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, emphasized the importance of respect and understanding in fostering true reconciliation.
During the event held at Edmonton City Hall and organized by the City of Edmonton and Mayor Andrew Knack, Indigenous leaders and elders engaged in traditional ceremonies, drumming, dancing, and the raising of the Treaty 6 flag. Various government officials, including federal Emergency Management Minister Eleanor Olszewski, Conservative MP Billy Morin, Alberta NDP Indigenous relations critic Brooks Arcand-Paul, and Mayor Knack, delivered speeches and exchanged gifts.
Despite the absence of Alberta’s Indigenous Relations Minister Rajan Sawhney, her office assured a commitment to maintaining strong relationships with Indigenous communities. Karah Folk, Sawhney’s press secretary, highlighted the significance of the 150th anniversary in fostering reflection and strengthening ties with Treaty 6 First Nations.
However, Joey Pete expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s focus on issues like pipelines rather than prioritizing reconciliation, revenue sharing, and equity with Indigenous communities. He stressed the need for meaningful collaboration and engagement, emphasizing the responsibility of both provincial and federal governments in honoring Indigenous treaties.
Brooks Arcand-Paul acknowledged the strained relationship between Indigenous communities and the government due to ongoing separatist sentiments in the province. He emphasized the importance of elected officials fulfilling their duty to represent and engage with the people they serve, despite political challenges.
The anniversary event in Edmonton is part of a series of planned commemorations throughout the week, including a re-enactment of the historic treaty signing. The initial signing of Treaty 6 occurred at Fort Carlton in Saskatchewan on August 23, 1876, covering extensive areas in central Alberta and central Saskatchewan. Additional commemorative events are scheduled to take place at Fort Carlton over the weekend.