The Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation has filed a authorized declare difficult the approval of a separatist petition in Alberta, arguing that any transfer towards separation from Canada can not proceed with out the consent of First Nations.
In a press release launched Friday, the First Nation mentioned it has filed a Assertion of Declare within the Alberta Court docket of King’s Bench towards the Alberta authorities, the federal authorities and Alberta’s Chief Electoral Officer.
The declare alleges a failure to uphold and implement Treaty No. 8 and argues the approval of the petition violates treaty rights.
The assertion, issued from Treaty No. 8 territory, mentioned the petition was accepted below laws handed by the United Conservative Get together that the First Nation describes as “blatantly unconstitutional.”
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“No separation of Alberta from Canada can happen with out First Nation consent,” the assertion reads. “That is Treaty land. That is the legislation.”
In keeping with the Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation, the petition’s approval might invite international interference and result in financial, societal and authorized hurt for residents of Alberta, with First Nations disproportionately affected.
The Nation additionally famous the approval occurred whereas courts have been closed, with common courtroom operations set to renew Monday.
Chief Sheldon Sunshine mentioned the First Nation plans to file an pressing injunction on Monday in search of to pause the petition course of whereas the authorized problem proceeds.
The injunction is meant to stop what the Nation describes as foreseeable harms ensuing from the petition.
Treaty No. 8, signed in 1899, covers a big portion of northern Alberta in addition to elements of British Columbia, Saskatchewan and the Northwest Territories.
First Nations have lengthy maintained that treaty obligations have to be revered in any choices affecting land, governance and sovereignty.
The authorized motion provides to rising debate over Alberta’s separatist motion and the province’s current legislative modifications governing citizen-initiated referendums.
The Alberta authorities and the Workplace of the Chief Electoral Officer haven’t but publicly responded to the authorized submitting.
The Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation is asking on different First Nations and Canadians to assist its courtroom problem.
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