Angel Houle, who has never participated in an Alberta provincial election before, is actively involved in the upcoming referendum occurring on October 19. Houle, working with the Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations, is leading efforts to equip indigenous leaders with the necessary tools to encourage voting. The referendum will determine whether Alberta remains part of Canada or proceeds with a second binding referendum regarding separation.
Houle, in collaboration with colleagues, has been coordinating workshops to assist member nations in forming teams to educate people on the voting process and locations. Emphasizing the significance of a unified Canada and the treaties supporting that unity, Houle highlighted the importance of active participation in the referendum to safeguard the future for treaty people and future generations.
Acknowledging the growing interest and demand for information within the community, Houle emphasized the importance of not remaining silent during the referendum as it could imply consent. Various groups, including First Nations, are actively engaging in spreading awareness and garnering support for the vote, which will address ten questions, with one focusing on separation.
The referendum campaign has sparked tensions and legal disputes between First Nations and Premier Danielle Smith’s United Conservative Party government. While Smith maintains that First Nations are valued partners, indigenous leaders question this assertion, feeling marginalized in the separation discourse despite their historical treaties predating Alberta’s provincial establishment.
With a surge in voting interest, First Nations are deploying strategies to facilitate voter participation, such as translating materials for non-English speakers and ensuring sufficient support at polling stations. The efforts extend to off-reserve members through upcoming information sessions as Election Alberta anticipates a record turnout, with over 652,000 mail-in ballots already dispatched.
Despite the challenges, First Nations leaders are actively opposing the separation movement, emphasizing the destructive division it has engendered. A coalition of First Nations previously contested the legitimacy of a citizen-initiated petition for the separation vote due to inadequate consultation, leading to a legal battle that remains unresolved. The referendum, while crucial, has evoked divisive sentiments among communities, emphasizing the need for unity and inclusive participation in the decision-making process.