IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Court Decision Reaffirms Protection of Treaty Rights
(Siksika Nation, May 13, 2026) – Today’s court decision affirms that Treaties are living constitutional agreements that continue to shape Canada. The Alberta Court of King’s Bench has reinforced what First Nations have long maintained: decisions that could fundamentally alter Canada’s constitutional framework must respect Treaty rights and obligations to Indigenous Peoples.
For Siksika, this is not merely a political debate. Our Blackfoot Treaty (Treaty 7) and Treaties 6 and 8 are sacred, constitutionally protected agreements that predate Alberta and cannot be set aside through provincial processes. The Court recognizes that discussions of Alberta separation have significant implications for First Nations, their citizens, lands, and the nation‑to‑nation relationship with the Crown. It also affirms that democracy must operate within the rule of law, constitutional protections, and the honour of the Crown—First Nations’ rights are not subject to majority vote.
While Albertans hold diverse views about the province’s future, meaningful dialogue must include First Nations as full participants. Treaties are foundational to Canada, and any effort to redefine its future must uphold these commitments. We will continue to monitor the appeal and advocate for the protection of Treaty rights, Indigenous jurisdiction, and the constitutional relationship between First Nations and the Crown.
CONTACT
Siksika Communications
Email: communications@siksikanation.com
