September 1, 2026 — Grand Chief of Treaty 8 Sovereign Nations Trevor Mercredi is expressing concern that the Alberta government removed its reference to Indigenous Peoples from its updated Alberta Day statement.
The Premier’s original statement recognized the enduring connection to and stewardship of this land held by Indigenous Peoples, only to be removed from the version issued approximately one hour later.
“The removal is deeply troubling,” said Grand Chief Trevor Mercredi. “Treaty 8 Sovereign Nations and all First Nations across Alberta have always been part of the history, present and future of this province. Our Nations are not a footnote to Alberta’s story. Treaty Nations were here long before Alberta existed, and our place in this land cannot be erased when it becomes politically inconvenient.”
Grand Chief Mercredi said the omission is particularly concerning in the context of the Alberta government’s ongoing efforts to advance separation-related initiatives while challenging the constitutional status of Treaty rights and the duty to consult.
“At a time when First Nations people are facing increased hostility for standing up for Treaty, the government should be affirming our place and history prior to Alberta’s story, not deleting it,” said Grand Chief Mercredi. “Respect for First Nations must be reflected in the government’s words, actions and relationships.”
Treaty 8 Sovereign Nations will continue to defend our rights, lands and Treaty relationship, and will continue to call on Alberta to respect its obligations within the Treaty relationship with the Crown.