Saddle Lake Cree Nation has released a statement publicly supporting Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation Chief Sheldon Sunshine and opposing any efforts tied to Alberta separation or a potential provincial referendum.

The statement, issued January 13, says Saddle Lake Cree Nation stands united against attempts to discuss, petition, or initiate separation initiatives, citing concerns that such actions violate existing Treaty agreements.

Injunction filed over Treaty concerns

Chief Sunshine has initiated an urgent interim injunction with the Court of King’s Bench of Alberta in response to a petition linked to the Alberta Prosperity Project. The legal action argues the petition violates Treaty No. 8, an agreement entered into with the British Crown in 1899.

Saddle Lake Cree Nation states the actions also conflict with Treaty No. 6 and stresses that both Treaties remain valid and legally binding.

Treaties foundational to Canada’s framework

In its release, Saddle Lake Cree Nation emphasized that Treaties are foundational agreements that predate and supersede the Province of Alberta. The Nation also challenged public narratives suggesting taxpayers fund First Nations, stating Treaties are land-sharing agreements that enabled settlement while ensuring the long-term survival, safety, and well-being of future generations.

The statement notes that Treaties were entered into with the British Crown and remain central to Canada’s constitutional framework.

Criticism of separation movements

The Nation raised concerns about recent political movements, including Prosperity Alberta, Separation Alberta, and Alberta Strong, accusing them of promoting narratives that ignore Treaty-protected lands and the rights of Cree, Dene, and other Indigenous Peoples.

According to the statement, these groups have organized actions and raised funds while excluding the voices of Indigenous Peoples who continue to live on Treaty lands.

Call for unity among Treaty Nations

Saddle Lake Cree Nation Chief Dale E. Steinhauer called on all Numbered Treaty Nations to stand united in upholding Treaty rights.

“Treaties are perpetual; to last as long as the sun shines, waters flow and grass grows,” the statement reads.

Saddle Lake Cree Nation is a Plains Cree Nation, signatory to Treaty No. 6, located in the Amiskwacîwiyiniwak (Beaver Hills People) region of central Alberta.