Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said Wednesday that a group of First Nations chiefs need to 'check themselves,' after they accused her of potential treasonous activity for calling a separation vote.
The Assembly of Treaty Chiefs, representing First Nations in Alberta, issued a statement accusing Smith of treason for proposing a vote on separating from Canada. Smith responded by saying the chiefs should focus on their own communities rather than making such accusations.
The dispute stems from Smith's recent comments about holding a referendum on Alberta's place within Canada, which she has discussed as a way to address grievances with the federal government. The chiefs argued that such a move would be unconstitutional and harmful to Indigenous rights.
Smith defended her position, stating that the separation vote is a legitimate political discussion and that the chiefs' accusations are unfounded. She emphasized that her government remains committed to working with Indigenous communities on key issues.
