Horse Lake First Nation and Duncan's First Nation logos (Image Credit: Horse Lake First Nation 339 and Duncan's First Nation 451)

By Nathaniel Leigh

Treaty 8

Horse Lake First Nation and Duncan’s First Nation issue joint statement on Alberta separation initiatives

Jan 30, 2026 | 3:34 PM

Local Peace Region First Nations are asserting their positions on Alberta potentially separating from Canada.

Horse Lake First Nation 339 and Duncan’s First Nation 451 have issued a joint statement to formally assert that the Province of Alberta is subject to Treaty agreements.

The Fist Nations allege that any attempt to advance Alberta separating without the explicit informed consent of First nations is legally and constitutionally invalid.

They say this applies to any attempt to advance the separation, including petition, referendums, legislative amendments or administrative processes.

The First Nations further point out that they stand in solidarity with all First Nations whose Treaty and inherent rights are implicated by these initiatives.

They also objected to recent changes to the petition-signing process, calling it a failure to respect Treaty relationship and the Honour of the Crown.