Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs Affirm Court Decision on Alberta Separation Petition

Press Release

Mohkinstsis (Calgary, AB), Blackfoot Territory – May 13, 2026 – The Chiefs of the Blackfoot Confederacy affirm today’s decision from the Court of King’s Bench regarding a citizen led petition seeking to advance a referendum on Alberta separation. The ruling confirms what the Blackfoot Confederacy and Treaty First Nations have consistently maintained throughout this process, that Alberta separation is not solely a provincial political matter, but one that directly engages Treaty rights, constitutional obligations, and the Nation-to-Nation relationship between First Nations and the Crown.

In its decision, the Court ruled that Alberta breached its duty to consult with First Nations and further determined that the separatist petition should not have been issued by the province’s Chief Electoral Officer. Justice Shaina Leonard stated there could be “no doubt” that Alberta’s separation from Canada would impact Treaties 7 and 8 and found that legislative amendments introduced by Alberta’s government triggered constitutional obligations requiring consultation with Treaty First Nations that never occurred. The ruling builds on the Court’s earlier decision in April granting a stay on the certification process due to the risk of ongoing and irreparable harm to Treaty relationships.

The Chiefs of the Blackfoot Confederacy state that the ruling is an important affirmation of the constitutional status of Treaty and the legal obligations owed to First Nations. Blackfoot Treaty 7 predates and underpins the formation of the Province of Alberta and Confederation and remains a living, active, and constitutionally protected agreement governing how these lands are shared.

The Blackfoot Confederacy stands in solidarity with Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation, Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation, Mikisew Cree First Nation, support from Chief Starlight of Tsuut’ina Nation, and all Treaty Nations across Alberta who raised concerns regarding the referendum process and the absence of consultation.

This decision makes clear that the future of these lands cannot be determined without the First Nations whose rights and responsibilities are grounded in Treaty. Blackfoot Treaty 7 remains a living agreement that continues to guide how this territory is shared and governed. The Chiefs of Blackfoot Confederacy will continue to ensure that any path forward respects that foundation and includes the voices, jurisdiction, and authority of Niitsitapi.

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For media inquiries contact:

Theoren Royal,
Blackfoot Confederacy Communications
Email: TheorenR@Blackfootconfederacy.ca

Carol Mason,
Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs Society
Email: CarolM@blackootconfederacy.ca

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