Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations sign protocol agreement

December 16, 2020 was one of those moments when, for the first time since 2008, Alberta’s government and the Confederacy of Treaty Six Grand Chief signed a protocol agreement.

The protocol agreement sets us on a new course to work together to address economic and social issues facing the First Nations of Treaty Six.

It provides a solid foundation for genuine dialogue and a collaborative relationship and to work on these mutual priorities:

• lands and resources
• healthcare
• education
• justice
• economic development
• culture and tourism

It also commits to a meeting every year between the Premier and the Chiefs of the Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations. Cabinet ministers with related portfolios will also join protocol tables, so everyone involved has face-to-face time to explore the issues and to get to know each other.

Strong relationships between our governments set a prosperous future for First Nations in Alberta, underscored by a strong desire for more action toward reconciliation.

And while there is much work to do to get there, we will continue to push forward. Why?

Because our aim stays true that Indigenous Peoples should experience the same privileges and opportunities that others in Alberta do.

I believe when Indigenous Peoples thrive, Alberta becomes a better place to invest in, live in and grow in.