Cease and desist on separation threats

To the Editor:

Dear Premier Smith,

We write to you today to express our unequivocal opposition to the dangerous rhetoric and actions your office is engaging in by entertaining a referendum on separation in Alberta. This effort is not only reckless – it is an attempt to destabilize national unity at a time when Canada must remain steadfast, especially in the face of global uncertainty and extremism.

The Province of Alberta exists on treaty territory – specifically, the lands covered by Treaties No. 6, 7, and 8.

These treaties are sacred and binding. They are not subject to provincial whims, political ideologies, or referenda. The authority to share and coexist on this land was extended by our ancestors through treaty – not surrendered.

Your actions and proposals are in direct violation of these treaty agreements. Any suggestion that Alberta can unilaterally pursue separation or alter its relationship with Canada without full consent and participation of the First Peoples of this land is not only unlawful – it is colonial in nature.

We demand that you immediately cease this rhetoric and any associated actions. If you or others find life on treaty lands unsatisfactory, we remind you that citizenship elsewhere is always an option.

Bigstone Cree Nation stands firmly in defence of treaty and the sovereignty of our people.
Sincerely,

Chief Andy Alook
Bigstone Cree Nation