Overview

• The Alberta government has amended Bill 54 to include a clause protecting First Nations’ treaty rights in any potential separation referendum question.
• Indigenous leaders, including Onion Lake Cree Nation Chief Henry Lewis, argue the amendment is insufficient and have revived a legal challenge against the Sovereignty Act, with Alberta required to respond by June 6.
• Protests erupted at the legislature, with Indigenous leaders demanding the repeal of Bill 54, which they say undermines treaty obligations and fuels separatist rhetoric.
• Justice Minister Mickey Amery stated the government is listening to concerns, but critics, including the NDP, claim the amendments merely reiterate existing legal obligations without meaningful protections.
• Premier Danielle Smith maintains she supports Alberta remaining within Canada but seeks greater provincial autonomy to address grievances with federal policies.