National

Indigenous chiefs call for Alberta Premier Smith to stop stoking separatism talk

Darpan News Desk The Canadian Press, 01 May, 2025 10:48 AM

Two First Nations chiefs are accusing Alberta Premier Danielle Smith of "attempting to manufacture a national unity crisis" and are calling on her to stop stoking the fires of separatism.

Smith's government has proposed legislation that would make it easier for citizens to call for a referendum on seceding from Canada.

Chief Sheldon Sunshine of Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation and Mikisew Cree Nation Chief Billy-Joe Tuccaro say in a letter that the premier is enabling a referendum on separation, and a "fanatical cell of individuals," when Canadians need to unite against U.S. tariffs.

Smith has said it would be up to Albertans, not her government, to put the separation question on a ballot and that she supports Alberta sovereignty within a united Canada.

But the chiefs say even if Smith passes the buck onto citizens, the province can't breach treaties.

In a second letter, they ask Prime Minister Mark Carney to"get the province of Alberta in line."

Picture Courtesy: THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jason Franson

Prev Next

MORE National ARTICLES

B.C. overdose deaths drop 30 per cent, but researchers point to 'emerging dangers'

BC Coroners Service data show nearly half the people who died in January due to unregulated toxic drugs had the depressant bromazolam in their system, which researchers say highlights "emerging dangers" in the illicit drug supply even as deaths decline. The coroners service said Friday that 152 people died of toxic drug overdoses in January, marking four consecutive months that the toll was under 160.

B.C. overdose deaths drop 30 per cent, but researchers point to 'emerging dangers'

Reaction to Mark Carney being sworn in as prime minister

Mark Carney has been sworn in as Canada's new prime minister, succeeding Justin Trudeau. Here's how some leaders and politicians are reacting to his appointment.

Reaction to Mark Carney being sworn in as prime minister

Eby announces ending of provincial carbon tax, after Carney kills federal version

Premier David Eby said at a news conference in Surrey that legislation is being prepared to repeal the consumer carbon tax during the current legislative session, with sittings scheduled to resume on March 31.

Eby announces ending of provincial carbon tax, after Carney kills federal version

Prime Minister Mark Carney's government terminates consumer carbon price

Prime Minister Mark Carney's first move after taking office on Friday was to eliminate the consumer carbon price, undoing Justin Trudeau's signature climate policy. Carney addressed members of the media after the Friday afternoon cabinet meeting, saying the government is "focused on action."

Prime Minister Mark Carney's government terminates consumer carbon price

Canada’s International Student Cap: Universities Struggle, International Students Suffer  

The recent cap on international student admissions in Canada has sent ripples through universities nationwide, disrupting enrollment patterns, financial planning, and student experiences. For institutions that have had student populations woven with a multicultural fabric for years, the impact has brought about significant challenges spanning across multiple areas.

Canada’s International Student Cap: Universities Struggle, International Students Suffer  

Is Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Risk? Navigating the Future of DEI in Canada

As corporate cutbacks and shifting public sentiment create uncertainty, many are asking: Is the momentum behind workplace diversity fading? Experts in workplace diversity and Canadian policy argue that, rather than disappearing, DEI is evolving, and its long-term sustainability will depend on how organizations choose to embed it into their core values.