The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations is expressing serious concerns over Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s recent actions to facilitate a potential referendum on Alberta’s future in Canada.
The FSIN states that Smith’s proposal to lower thresholds for citizen-initiated referendums, which could lead to a vote on separation, fundamentally ignores the nation-to-nation treaties signed between First Nations and the Crown.
“As a reminder, we are the First Peoples of these lands and waters,” stated FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron. “Those that want to leave are free to do so but all the lands, waters, and resources are First Nations, and were negotiated in the various treaties across Turtle Island. Our Treaties were and are still here long before the so-called western provinces became provinces.”
The FSIN is emphasizing that provincial boundaries were established after Treaty territories were defined. The Treaties signed between First Nations and the Crown are constitutionally protected international agreements that cannot be unilaterally altered by provincial governments.
“Any process of separation that fails to honour the true spirit and intent of our treaties would violate both constitutional and international law,” Chief Cameron added. “These treaties were made with the Crown, not with provinces, and they remain binding regardless of political aspirations.”
The FSIN sees the recent separatist rhetoric as harmful and divisive for all, distracting from the real work of building a stronger, more unified Canada that also respects First Nations Inherent and Treaty Rights and sovereignty.
“Since the Royal Proclamation of 1763, the relationship between First Nations and the Crown has been nation-to-nation. It’s a foundational historical document and acknowledges Aboriginal title existed and still exists,” says 3rd Vice Chief Fabian Head.
“This issue of separatism is causing division where the focus has to be on creating a pathway where the future of all must be on unity,” said Chief Cameron. “First Nations never surrendered title to our lands and resources. We agreed to share, not surrender.”