Alberta Judge Rules Against Separatist Petition Due to Lack of First Nations Consultation
An Alberta judge has ruled against a separatist petition, stating that the provincial government failed to consult with First Nations. Justice Shaina Leonard deemed the petition invalid. Lawyers representing Alberta First Nations contended that the referendum process used by separatists lacked Indigenous consultation and violated treaty rights. The province's lawyers defended the process and supported the separatist petition. Premier Danielle Smith had indicated that if the petition garnered sufficient signatures, the group's question would be included on a ballot this autumn.