By Chevi Rabbit, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Alberta Native News As Alberta\u2019s separatism debate continues, NDP MLA Brooks Arcand-Paul says promises of better treaty negotiations through separation raise serious questions about the future of First Nations\u2019 rights and relationships with the Crown. Arcand-Paul, who represents Edmonton-West Henday, said the political discussion must consider the perspectives of Indigenous Peoples and the longstanding treaty relationships that predate Alberta becoming a province. For him, the issue extends beyond a potential referendum. It concerns whether First Nations\u2019 rights will be respected, how Indigenous communities will be included in decisions affecting their future and whether existing treaty commitments will continue to be honoured. \u201cOur Elders, my knowledge keepers, the people who have taught me about treaties, have always said that we do not renegotiate our… <\/p>\n
By Chevi Rabbit, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Alberta Native News As Alberta\u2019s separatism debate continues, NDP MLA Brooks Arcand-Paul says promises of better treaty negotiations through separation raise serious questions about the future of First Nations\u2019 rights and relationships with the Crown. Arcand-Paul, who represents Edmonton-West Henday, said the political discussion must consider the perspectives of Indigenous Peoples and the longstanding treaty relationships that predate Alberta becoming a province. For him, the issue extends beyond a potential referendum. It concerns whether First Nations\u2019 rights will be respected, how Indigenous communities will be included in decisions affecting their future and whether existing treaty commitments will continue to be honoured. \u201cOur Elders, my knowledge keepers, the people who have taught me about treaties, have always said that we do not renegotiate our... <\/p>\n