Statement from President Sandmaier on the Court Decision Quashing the Alberta Separation Petition
Posted on: May 13, 2026
Today’s decision by Justice Shaina Leonard, quashing Elections Alberta’s approval of the separation petition is very welcome.
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government acknowledges the hard work of the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation, Blood Tribe, Piikani Nation, and Siksika Nation, who carried this litigation forward. The weight of mounting a constitutional challenge of this scale is significant, and we are grateful. We also acknowledge the parallel advocacy of other Indigenous Nations in this important work.
The Court found that the Government of Alberta owed a duty to consult, and it failed to discharge that duty. That principle does not begin and end with a separation petition. Discourse that disregards the rights of Indigenous Peoples erases the legal and constitutional foundations of Canada and the vital role that Indigenous Peoples have played in shaping this country. Today’s decision is a clear reminder of that truth. It is also a reminder that Alberta has obligations to all Indigenous governments in this province, including the Otipemisiwak Métis Government, and that those obligations must be fulfilled before decisions are made, not only after they are challenged in court.
The Métis Nation existed in our Homeland long before the creation of the province of Alberta, and the inherent, constitutionally protected rights of Métis and First Nations in Alberta must be respected in every government decision that could affect us. That includes legislation and policy decisions made by the Government of Alberta.
As I have said before, we understand that many Albertans may feel frustrated or ignored by Canada. As Métis, our story has been long shaped by resilience in the face of government neglect and a persistent lack of recognition. However, we will continue to urge the Crown’s representatives in Alberta to actively promote unity and uphold Canada and Alberta’s obligations to all Indigenous Peoples including the Métis.
Andrea Sandmaier President, Otipemisiwak Métis Government