Press Release
Dene Tha’ thanks First Nations fighting unconstitutional referendum
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 14, 2026 [EDMONTON] – Dene Tha’ First Nation (DTFN) welcomes the Court’s decision to throw out a separation referendum petition aimed at triggering an Alberta independence vote. The case was brought forward by a group of First Nations. The Court agreed that the Crown had a duty to consult with impacted First Nations before advancing the separation petition, which could have triggered a binding referendum on separation.
“We would like to congratulate and thank the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation, the Blackfoot Nations of Piikani Nation, Siksika Nation, and the Blood Tribe, as well as the Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation, and all others who fought against efforts to hold an unconstitutional separation referendum,” said DTFN Chief Wilfred Hooka-Nooza.
“Alberta’s separation from Canada would have deeply profound impacts on DTFN’s Treaty rights,” said Hooka-Nooza. “We’re immensely relieved the Court’s decision recognizes this and upholds that the Crown has a duty to consult before making decisions that impact Treaty rights,” said Hooka-Nooza.
Where the Crown contemplates conduct that seriously impacts Treaty rights, full consent of the impacted First Nations may be required. Treaty rights are legally attached to the Crown’s assertion of underlying title to all lands in Alberta.
“The UCP government needs to recognize that Alberta cannot separate from Canada without the consent of First Nations, and that consent does not exist” said Hooka-Nooza. “Danielle Smith should show she respects the rights of First Nations and the Court’s decision by stopping any further talk of appeal or support for separation,” said Hooka-Nooza.
CONTACT
Chief Wilfred Hooka-Nooza – 780-502-2994 / wilfred.hooka-nooza@denetha.ca
