Siksika Nation, Alberta — Siksika Nation welcomes the results of the October 19, 2026, Alberta referendum, which saw Albertans deliver a decisive victory in support of remaining united within Canada.
Early referendum results indicate that approximately 77% of Albertans voted against pursuing separation, compared to 23% in favour — a margin of more than three to one.
The outcome sends a clear message: Albertans have rejected division and reaffirmed their commitment to a united Canada.
Siksika Nation, alongside many other First Nations across Alberta, played an instrumental role in the referendum process. Through advocacy, public education, litigation and community engagement, First Nations helped ensure that Treaty rights, Indigenous sovereignty, and the constitutional relationship between First Nations and the Crown remained central to the public discussion.
“We went to bed last night with happy hearts, knowing that Albertans had chosen unity over division. This result is not only a victory for a united Canada, but also a powerful reminder that our Treaties, our rights, and our voices matter. First Nations were not simply observers in this process. We were active participants, and our people helpedshape this outcome.”
A Call to End Divisive Rhetoric
While Siksika Nation celebrates the referendum results, the process has also exposed troubling divisions within Alberta. Throughout the referendum campaign, Siksika Nation members experienced incidents of hostility, discrimination, and hateful behaviour while travelling to neighbouring communities, shopping, and carrying out their everyday activities.
The increasingly divisive rhetoric surrounding separation has had real consequences for First Nations people.
“Political disagreement must never become an excuse for racism, intimidation, or hatred. Our people should be able to leave their homes, visit neighbouring communities, and conduct their daily lives without fear of discrimination. We hope this referendum marks an end to the divisive rhetoric that has contributed to these unacceptable behaviours.”
Siksika Nation calls on political leaders and all Albertans to move forward with respect, understanding, and a renewed commitment to working together.
Serious Concerns Regarding Electoral Administration
Despite the decisive outcome, Siksika Nation raises serious concerns regarding the administration of the referendum, particularly the accessibility and adequacy of voting resources within First Nations communities.
Polling stations on Siksika Nation, as well as in other First Nations communities across Alberta, experienced inadequate resourcing and insufficient ballot supplies. As a result, many Nation members faced excessive wait times and unnecessary obstacles when attempting to exercise their democratic right to vote.
“It is unacceptable that First Nations communities continue to encounter barriers to participating fully in Alberta’s democratic processes. Our people have fought too long for their democratic rights to be treated as an afterthought. The right to vote must be supported by meaningful and equitable access to the ballot box.”
Every eligible voter, regardless of where they live, deserves an accessible, adequately resourced, and properly administered voting process.
Moving Forward Together
Siksika Nation urges the provincial government and all Albertans to turn their attention toward the pressing issues affecting communities across Alberta.
“The people have spoken. It is time to respect the outcome, put an end to the divisive rhetoric, and focus on the real challenges facing our communities. Albertans deserve leadership that brings people together rather than drives them apart.”
Siksika Nation remains committed to advancing a respectful and constructive relationship with Alberta and Canada, grounded in the recognition of Treaty rights, First Nations sovereignty, and mutual respect.
Our Treaties are not obstacles to Alberta’s future. They are part of its foundation.
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For media inquiries contact:
Attention: Chief and Council
Email: communications@siksikanation.com
