Actions and Commitments:
Exploring Stakeholder: "Government of Alberta"
Updates on this page: 109
April 5, 2024
Statement by Dr. Alexander Caudarella on the creation of the Canadian Centre of Recovery Excellence in Alberta
NationTalk: OTTAWA — “On behalf of the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA), I am pleased to note the Government of Alberta’s intention to create the Canadian Centre of Recovery Excellence — or CoRE — which will conduct research and evaluate Alberta’s government services. As many know, the mental health and substance use...
April 3, 2024
Alberta boosts funding for Indigenous businesses
NationTalk: Indigenous communities face significant barriers when trying to access funding from traditional financial institutions. Supporting the development of Indigenous businesses is a key part of Alberta’s commitment to economic reconciliation. Alberta’s government is collaborating with Indigenous businesses as partners in prosperity to ensure the success and sustainability of Indigenous communities across the province. Alberta’s...
April 2, 2024
Indigenous organization hopes additional government money will remove barriers
$6.6 M in funds announced for family resource networks in Alberta Minister Searle Turon speaks in Edmonton at the Bent Arrow Healing Society on April 2, 2024. APTN News: An Indigenous healing organization hopes the announcement of additional money for programs will help remove barriers to accessing services for Indigenous families. “There’s always barriers whether...
March 14, 2024
Draft social studies curriculum: Join the conversation
NationTalk: Over the last seven months, Alberta Education has been engaging with education and community partners, along with curriculum development specialists, to develop a new social studies curriculum. More than 300 education partners, teachers, multicultural organizations, Indigenous and francophone communities have been engaged to gather valuable feedback to help inform the development of a comprehensive...
February 27, 2024
A First Nation in Alberta could soon have its health products delivered by drone
Montana First Nation partners with Edmonton airport, private contractor on project CBC Indigenous: On a warm day in early January, council members from Montana First Nation gathered together to discuss a plan that could see the reserve, 90 kilometres south of Edmonton, have medical supplies delivered by drone. The central Alberta First Nation is partnering...
January 30, 2024
Empowering communities to boost access to justice
NationTalk: A new one-time grant will support community-based initiatives to increase access to justice for Albertans. Resolving legal issues outside the traditional court system can be less stressful on the parties involved, less expensive and faster than going to court, and a growing number of Albertans have shown a preference for resolving issues within their...
January 29, 2024
Cindy Gladue’s family relieved at court’s rejection of Bradley Barton’s latest appeal
Barton is serving a 12½-year prison sentence for manslaughter WARNING: This story contains distressing details. CBC Indigenous: Cindy Gladue’s family is hopeful that a dismissal of Bradley Barton’s bid for a third trial marks the end of a legal process that has dragged on for more than a decade. On Monday, the Court of Appeal...
January 18, 2024
Proposed carbon capture pipeline will benefit Indigenous communities, says Pathway Alliance VP
There is really nowhere else better in the world than in northeastern Alberta and Saskatchewan for carbon capture for permanent storage.” — Mark Cameron of Pathway Alliance Mark Cameron of Pathways Alliance NationTalk: Windspeaker.com – Mark Cameron is the vice-president for external relations for Pathway Alliance, which was formed in 2021. Its members consist of...
November 16, 2023
Comments on Sundre, Alberta man being charged in the 1976 homicide of 16- year-old Pauline Brazeau
NationTalk: Edmonton, AB: With the recent news of a Sundre, Alberta man being charged in the 1976 homicide of 16- year-old Pauline Brazeau, Esquao, the Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women, wishes to extend its gratitude to the Alberta RCMP and Calgary Police Services for their determined efforts in solving this 47-year-old cold case...
November 10, 2023
Refocusing on patient-centred care
A refocused health care system will improve health outcomes for Albertans and empower health care workers to deliver quality care across the province. NationTalk: Alberta’s front-line health workers provide exceptional care to patients and families, and Alberta’s government is committed to supporting their work by providing a high-functioning health care system. Alberta’s government has been...
November 9, 2023
Strengthening rural Alberta
NationTalk: New grants for non-profits, Indigenous and small communities will build capacity in agriculture, small business and economic development. Indigenous and small communities are vital to Alberta and to the province’s long-term economic prosperity. Recognizing this importance, Alberta’s government released its Economic Development in Rural Alberta Plan in December 2022. To further implement this plan,...
October 25, 2023
Promoting regional economic growth
NationTalk: Alberta’s government is investing an additional $9 million over the next three years in new projects that will help promote regional economic growth across the province. The Northern and Regional Economic Development (NRED) program was created in 2022 to help attract job-creating investment and support economic growth and diversification across Alberta. Eligible projects can...
October 19, 2023
Alberta to address anti-Indigenous racism in provincial healthcare system
“We call on the federal government to look at what is being done here in Alberta … to modernize their own approach and their important role and responsibility in advancing equitable health care for Indigenous people in Alberta and across Canada.” — Dr. Tyler White, CEO of Siksika Health Services Tyler White, CEO of Siksika...
October 19, 2023
Alberta to implement recommendations to improve access to health care
NationTalk: Okotoks Online -The province is moving forward on recommendations that have been made to improve access to primary health care. Health Minister Adriana LaGrange provided details on the plan in an update on Alberta’s healthcare system yesterday (October 18, 2023). “Today, I am pleased to announce a number of actions that will help to stabilize...
October 11, 2023
Call for Reconciliation Roster Members
NationTalk: The Law Society of Alberta remains committed to responding to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action in a thoughtful and collaborative way that builds and strengthens relationships with Indigenous peoples and communities. Hearing a wide array of Indigenous perspectives is crucial for advancing this work, which is why the Law Society is...
October 2, 2023
Planting the seeds of reconciliation
NationTalk: Working alongside Indigenous Elders, Alberta’s government opened the Kihciy Maskikiy/Aakaakmotaani garden on the east lawn of the legislature grounds. Four Elders guided the design of Kihciy Maskikiy/Aakaakmotaani, a name that combines Cree and Blackfoot words, respectively, and translates to “sacred medicine/save many people.” It is a place to reflect, seek guidance and find solace....
September 30, 2023
IRS (Indian Residential School) Permanent Memorial Update
IRS (Indian Residential School) Permanent Memorial UpdateIt was announced on September 30th that the City of Calgary signed an LOI (letter of intent) to partner with Fort Calgary on the Residential School Memorial. The location for the memorial will be located at the NE corner by the community garden and a sign was put up...
August 10, 2023
AHS launches new Indigenous Central Zone one-line support – The Pipestone Flyer
Nation Talk: Pipestone Flyer – Alberta Health Services (AHS), the provincial health authority, has introduced a new support line to assist Indigenous peoples in the Central Zone navigate the health system. Staffed by Indigenous Health Link staff, the toll-free Indigenous Support Line can be accessed by calling 1-844-944-4744 or by calling Health Link at 811....
August 1, 2023
Supporting Indigenous women, girls and 2S+ people
NationTalk: Grant applications are open for communities and organizations working to address the violence, safety and economic security of Indigenous women, girls and 2S+ people. Alberta’s government is committed to ensuring Indigenous women, girls and two spirit plus (2S+) people have a future that is safe, secure and respected. The Community Support Fund provides grants...
July 27, 2023
Calgary awarded 2027 North American Indigenous Games
“It’s exciting times for sure. We’re really excited about the return of the Games to Alberta after 37 years.” — Shannon Dunfield, the president of the NAIG Council The 2023 North American Indigenous Games wrapped up this past weekend in Nova Scotia. Calgary has been announced as the 2027 NAIG host. WindSpeaker.com: The North American...
July 19, 2023
Construction gets underway on the initial First Nation recovery community
“We really respect the whole notion about a recovery model because it aligns with who we are.” —Charles Weasel Head, vice chair with the Blood Tribe Department of Health Blood Tribe leaders and Alberta government ministers turn the sod July 19 for the Blood Tribe’s recovery community facility. Windspeaker.com: Shovels were dug into the ground...
July 18, 2023
Bringing Indigenous communities, schools together
NationTalk: Alberta’s government will provide more than $10 million to Indigenous partners through the new Bridging Classrooms to Communities pilot program. Alberta Education is committed to improving education outcomes and creating opportunities for First Nations, Métis and Inuit students. Creating welcoming environments, demonstrating cultural awareness and providing system supports through the Bridging Classrooms to Communities...
July 7, 2023
Ben & Jerry’s Land Back tweet on Canada Day gets praise from First Nations people
Others called for boycott of ice cream company after tweet says Canada is on stolen land CBC News: Ice cream company Ben & Jerry’s is being praised by many First Nations people in Canada for a tweet supporting the #LandBack movement on Canada Day. The tweet from the Canadian branch of the company read: “Another day...
July 6, 2023
Building a recovery community with Siksika Nation
NationTalk: MA new recovery community on Siksika Nation will support people struggling with addiction to pursue recovery. Alberta’s government is expanding treatment and recovery options to help Albertans pursue recovery at no cost. This includes establishing 11 new recovery communities that will allow for long-term addiction treatment throughout the province. Alberta’s government has signed a...
July 5, 2023
Tsuut’ina First Nation signs agreement for addictions recovery treatment facility
Alberta government continues plan for recovery oriented funding for First Nations APTN News: Tsuut’ina First Nation in Alberta signed an agreement with the province for up to $30 million to build addiction treatment capacity on First Nations lands Wednesday. Smith has signed other agreements with First Nations, such as the announcement of $30 million in...
June 26, 2023
UofA: Indigenous researchers lead process to create new guidelines for including Indigenous people in Canadian clinical trials
Community engagement is key to overcoming distrust due to historical injustices, says Inuk researcher. INUK HEALTH RESEARCHER WAYNE CLARK IS TAKING A LEAD ROLE IN A NEW NATIONAL INITIATIVE TO ENSURE THAT FIRST NATIONS, MÉTIS AND INUIT COMMUNITIES AND INDIVIDUALS HAVE EQUITABLE ACCESS TO PARTICIPATE IN CLINICAL TRIALS — AND BENEFIT FROM THEM. (PHOTO: ATHABASCA...
April 18, 2023
Commitment to Community Policing
NationTalk: Alberta’s government will ensure Indigenous communities and municipalities have the support they need to study what kind of police service best meets their local needs. Every Albertan should feel safe and secure in their communities and every community should be able to choose a policing model that meets their needs. Alberta’s government is investing...
April 17, 2023
Creating more opportunities in Indigenous communities
NationTalk: Budget 2023 increases support for Indigenous job creators and entrepreneurs by boosting funding to the Aboriginal Business Investment Fund (ABIF) by 50 per cent. Indigenous community-owned businesses directly benefit their communities by creating jobs, generating revenue and strengthening their local economies. Alberta’s government is reducing barriers faced by these businesses by expanding ABIF to...
April 11, 2023
3 First Nations sign agreement with Ottawa, Alberta to take over child welfare
Loon River First Nation, Lubicon First Nation and Peerless Trout First Nation celebrate new agreement CBC News: Canadian Press – Three northern Alberta First Nations have signed an agreement with the federal and provincial governments to be responsible for their own child welfare systems. The chiefs of Loon River First Nation, Lubicon First Nation and...
April 4, 2023
Cdn. Academy of Health Sciences (CAHS) Releases Health Human Resources Assessment Report
NationTalk: Ottawa – Today, the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences (CAHS) released its report on health human resources (HHR) in Canada. The report, titled “Canada’s Health Workforce: Pathways Forward”, provides key findings designed to inform stakeholders (including governments). The report provides evidence-informed approaches to addressing the current challenges facing the Canadian health workforce. The three...
April 4, 2023
Pilot projects could pave way forward for Indigenous health care
Based on the principles of nationhood, individual Indigenous communities take the lead in determining how their communities will work with partners to address health care disparities. iPolitics: Four community-led pilot projects have seen significant improvements in health care for Indigenous communities across the country, supporters say, leading to a push for the government to address...
March 17, 2023
Province fronts cash for Indigenous seniors’ homes
Healthy elders are the future, says Chief Arcand NationTalk: St. Albert Gazette – New funds in this year’s provincial budget for continuing care homes could help more elders live longer in their home communities, says the chief of Alexander First Nation. Alberta Health Minister Jason Copping and Indigenous Relations Minister Rick Wilson were at the...
February 21, 2023
Record investment in Alberta’s primary health care
NationTalk: Alberta’s government is proposing historical funding to strengthen the province’s primary health care system. If passed, Budget 2023 would invest a record $2 billion – the highest investment ever – to improve primary health care. This would include funding for Primary Care Networks, payments to family doctors, funding to strengthen and modernize primary health...
February 11, 2023
As more high schools add Indigenous- focused compulsory courses, some warn against a siloed approach
‘Reconciliation will only exist … when we see it in every aspect of a student’s experience,’ says professor CBC News: As a Shakespeare fan who loves sharing his work with students, Windsor, Ont., English teacher Carolyn Howlett admits she felt a bit apprehensive when her board began work shifting its Grade 11 English course to focus...
February 2, 2023
Alberta First Nation signs child welfare agreement with feds, without the province
CTV News: MASKWACIS – An Alberta First Nation signed a two-year agreement with Ottawa Wednesday that gives it the autonomy to administer its own child welfare. Louis Bull Tribe in Maskwacis, Alta., south of Edmonton, is the first in the province to sign such an agreement. “This is an important day for Louis Bull Tribe,” Chief...
November 23, 2022
Growing 211’s mental health and addiction support capacity
Connect callers from rural and Indigenous communities with increased culturally and locally relevant supports. NationTalk: Alberta’s government is investing more than $15 million over three years to help connect Albertans to local addiction and mental health services. As part of building a recovery-oriented system of care, Alberta’s government is doubling 211 funding from $7.5 million...
November 9, 2022
National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence a significant step towards gender equality
Pictou County, Nova Scotia – Women and Gender Equality Canada Living a life free from violence is a fundamental human right, but gender‑based violence (GBV) continues to be a significant barrier to achieving gender equality in Canada. It is one of the most pervasive, deadly, and deeply rooted human rights violations of our time. Federal,...
September 28, 2022
Alberta Provincial Court releases Indigenous Justice Strategy
The Indigenous Justice Strategy aims to ensure Alberta judges and staff have a clear understanding of Indigenous history, heritage and laws, as well as establishing Indigenous cultural practices in court. But as Morgan Black explains, some critics say it’s a band-aid solution to a systemic issue. Global News (Canadian Press): Alberta’s provincial court has announced...
September 23, 2022
Siksika Nation to take over policing from RCMP
NationTalk: The Siksika Nation and the governments of Alberta and Canada have reached a deal allowing the nation to take over policing responsibilities from the RCMP, creating Canada’s first self-administered First Nation police service in 14 years. In July 2022, Alberta and Siksika Nation signed a memorandum of understanding to work towards establishing a self-administered...
September 9, 2022
Dene, Cree, Métis to form Fort Chipewyan education authority
Indigenous groups in Fort Chipewyan have signed an agreement with the province of Alberta that will establish a community-based education authority. NationTalk: CabinRadio: Kendrick Cardinal, president of the Fort Chipewyan Métis local, said he expected establishment of the authority to take two years. Cardinal signed the agreement in June with Chief Allan Adam of the...
September 6, 2022
AB Government: Community Policing Grant applications now open
NationTalk: Indigenous and municipal communities in Alberta can now apply for a one-time grant of up to $30,000 to develop a business case for their own self-administered police service or regional equivalent. The provincial grant offers financial assistance to Indigenous and municipal communities preparing a business case outlining local needs, capital requirements and transition considerations....
August 3, 2022
The University of Calgary’s Indigenous Strategy, ii’ taa’poh’to’p receives $1M gift from the Calgary Foundation
Aug. 3, 2022: University of Calgary News: The University of Calgary’s Indigenous Strategy, ii’ taa’poh’to’p, has received a $1-million gift from the Calgary Foundation — the largest single gift the strategy has received to date. Funds will be dedicated towards ii’ taa’poh’to’p initiatives including: the Indiginization of curricula across the university. widening pathways to education for Indigenous students entering...
July 18, 2022
Establishing a Siksika Nation police force
NationTalk: Alberta’s government and the Siksika Nation have signed an agreement to work toward establishing a self-administered police service for their community. The parties have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) broadly agreeing to work together on initiatives to improve public safety for members of the Siksika Nation. More specifically, discussions between the parties will...
July 11, 2022
AFN Calls For First Ministers Meeting on UNDRIP at Council of The Federation
Assembly of First Nations: BC Regional Chief Terry Teegee issued the following statement after a meeting with provincial and territorial premiers today in advance of the Council of the Federation meeting taking place later today in Victoria, BC. “It is important for First Nations to meet with premiers on priorities and initiatives that impact our...
June 23, 2022
Alberta Government issues “Request for Expression of Interest for Memorial
“The Truth and Reconciliation Commission called on all provinces and territories to create memorials for the First Nations, Métis and Inuit children who did not make their way home from these federally funded and church-run institutions. This healing and education memorial will be open to anyone visiting the Alberta legislature grounds.” Rick Wilson, Minister of...
June 3, 2022
Premier’s Council to guide Alberta’s response to the MMIWG Final report
Government of Alberta: A new Premier’s council will guide Alberta’s action in response to the National Inquiry on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG). The Premier’s Council on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG Council) will report to the Premier on government action and identify the gaps that need to be addressed...
February 22, 2022
Kinder Morgan Trans Mountain Pipeline
The total Project cost has increased from $12.6 to $21.4 billion. This estimate includes the costs of all known Project enhancements, changes, delays and financing, including impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and the substantial preliminary impacts of the November 2021 BC floods in the Hope, Coquihalla and Fraser Valley areas. The Project proudly embodies unprecedented...
January 10, 2022
Refusal to sign Co-ordination Agreements with First Nations to implement Bill C-92
Government of Alberta has – so far – refused to sign coordination agreements with the Louis Bull First Nation in Alberta and the federal government as required by Bill C-92 “The Indigenous Child Welfare Act”. Agreements are supposed to be signed within one year of a First Nations applying to assume accountability for delivering their...
January 4, 2022
Alberta Joint Working Group on MMIWG Final Report
Alberta Joint Working Group on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls issued their Final report to the Alberta Government. The Working Group was appointed to provide advice, direction and input into the Alberta government’s proposed action plan to address the calls for justice contained in the final report of the National Inquiry into Missing...
December 22, 2021
Alberta RCMP Historical Homicide Unit (HHU)
HHU was established in 2007 under the organization’s Serious Crimes Branch (SCB) to review, assess, prioritize, and investigate unsolved historical homicides in RCMP jurisdiction across the province. In 2020, the HHU secured funding for a federally-funded investigator to support the recommendations of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. This investigator will...
November 18, 2021
Alberta Community Restorative Justice Grants.
A total of $720,000 is available for organizations that help resolve disputes and promote meaningful alternative dispute resolutions that hold offenders accountable while addressing victims’ needs. This approach provides better outcomes for victims, lowers reoffending rates and helps ease the burden on the court system. Last year, funding went to 22 organizations. Non-profits can apply...
October 26, 2021
Heritage Preservation Partnership Program: IRS Support Funding
EverythingGP – Each of the nine has received $30,000 from the provincial government following a funding commitment earlier this year through the Heritage Preservation Partnership Program. Much of it is also being done in partnership with the Institute of Prairie and Indigenous Archaeology (IPIA) at the University of Alberta, and led by Dr. Kisha Supernant. According...
October 18, 2021
Red Deer IRS
Ground-penetrating radar work begins as part of larger collaboration across Alberta agreed upon by nine First Nations groups....
August 26, 2021
Plans to build permanent memorial in Calgary
APTN – Plans are underway to create a permanent memorial for victims of Canada’s residential schools to replace a fire-damaged one that includes hundreds of children’s shoes on the steps of Calgary City Hall. The temporary memorial, which also has stuffed animals and a child’s bicycle, was blessed by Indigenous elders in a pipe ceremony Thursday. The...
August 17, 2021
Grouard Indian Residential School
Kapawe’no First Nation welcomed a team from the Institute of Prairie and Indigenous Archaeology at the University of Alberta to assess the site of the Grouard Residential School Aug. 10 to 12. Located nearly 400 kilometres northwest of Edmonton, the school operated from 1894 to 1957. By 1949, Métis students accounted for half of the...
June 24, 2021
Criticism of new school curriculum’s “Eurocentric” syllabi
Assembly of First Nations – Nearly half of Albertans admit that they know very little about Canada’s residential school system in the face of growing criticism about the ‘whitewashing of history’ within the province’s newly proposed school curriculum, according to a recently-released national poll conducted by the Canadian Race Relations Foundation (CRRF), the Assembly of First...
June 23, 2021
Alberta Residential Schools Community Research Grant
Alberta’s government is providing $8 million to fund the Alberta Residential Schools Community Research Grant that is open to Indigenous communities and groups that will lead the research into undocumented deaths and burials in residential schools. Grant funding will be available to Indigenous communities and organizations for the following purposes: Community-driven research, including gathering oral...
June 21, 2021
Indigenous Human Rights Strategy
The Commission’s Indigenous Human Rights Strategy (Strategy) will guide the Commission’s practices and initiatives to reduce barriers Indigenous peoples face when seeking to enforce their human rights under the Alberta Human Rights Act. The overarching goals of this strategy are: To help address and reduce systemic racism against Indigenous peoples in health, education, child welfare, housing, justice (including...
May 25, 2021
Indigenous criticism of new K-6 curriculum
CBC – Some Alberta Indigenous leaders and an elder say the provincial government has used them or misrepresented their positions to gain endorsements for a new elementary school curriculum they do not support....
May 3, 2021
Systemic Racism throughout Alberta Services
Research, data, and information collected from consultations with key stakeholders indicate that systemic racism—in the health, education, child welfare, housing, and justice (including policing and corrections) systems—is a major issue facing Indigenous Peoples in Alberta. The Alberta Human Rights Commission is launching an Indigenous Human Rights Strategy to guide the Commission’s practices and initiatives with...
May 3, 2021
AHRC: Systemic Indigenous racism is a major issue throughout Alberta
Alberta Human Rights Commission – Research, data, and information collected from consultations with key stakeholders indicate that systemic racism—in the health, education, child welfare, housing, and justice (including policing and corrections) systems—is a major issue facing Indigenous Peoples in Alberta. The Alberta Human Rights Commission is launching an Indigenous Human Rights Strategy to guide the Commission’s...
March 31, 2021
Métis criticism of K-6 curriculum
The Métis Nation of Alberta is calling on the Government of Alberta to redraft its proposed K-6 curriculum, citing monumental concerns about the Euro-American colonial undertones In a letter to Alberta’s Minister of Education, MNA expressed deep concerns about the lack of transparency by the government of Alberta leading up to the release of the...
October 21, 2020
Curriculum advisors promote Eurocentric focus on K-4 curriculum
Curriculum advisers hand-picked by the Alberta government are recommending changes to the kindergarten-to-Grade 4 curriculum for fine arts and social studies that would eliminate all references to residential schools and “equity.” The advisers also recommend that seven- and eight-year-olds learn about feudalism, Chinese dynasties and Homer’s Odyssey in social studies classes. Curriculum experts familiar with the...
July 27, 2020
UCalgary researcher developing strategy to digitally archive residential school sites
Other News A UCalgary researcher is working with a number of partners across Canada to develop a strategy for digitally archiving the physical structures of the few remaining residential schools in Alberta. Two former provincial residential schools — Old Sun Community College and University nuhelot’įne thaiyots’į nistameyimâkanak Blue Quills — will be digitally captured by Blackfoot and...
June 8, 2020
Modernize the Police Act
CTV News (Calgary) – Minister of Justice and Solicitor General Doug Schweitzer we will expedite the government’s current work to modernize the Police Act. This will ensure we have the governance framework and policies in place so Albertans are confident that our police are accountable to the communities they protect. Policing only works when citizens feel assured...
March 4, 2020
Joint working group to inform MMIWG Action Plan
The Alberta government has appointed three Indigenous community members and three members of the legislative assembly to inform a government action plan that responds to the calls for justice of the National Inquiry on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. The joint working group will support the government’s actions by: Advising on options to...
January 16, 2020
Delay to Bill C-92
Globe and Mail – Rebecca Schulz, Minister of Children’s Services initially wanted a delay to the Jan. 1, 2020 implementation of Bill C-92. “I’m hopeful for where we are going to go moving forward but we really do need answers specifically around funding, liability, oversight, and we need some improved consultations moving forward if this...
October 13, 2019
Red Deer Indian Industrial School
Founded in 1892, considered one of the most atrocious examples of the suffering, abuse and neglect rampant in the Canada’s residential school system, the school operated until 1918. The school was plagued by widespread disease, a defective sanitation system that led to further contamination and illness, overcrowding and one of the highest mortality rates of...
March 18, 2019
Committed $100 million over six years to deliver clean drinking water to the boundaries of First Nations. Ten projects are now underway that will benefit 14 First Nations across the province. Alberta’s “First Nations Regional Drinking Water Tie-In Program” is a collaboration between First Nations, the Alberta government, municipalities or water commissions and the federal...
January 23, 2019
Indigenous Languages Resource Centre
The Alberta government is investing $1 million into Calgary’s first ever Indigenous Languages Resource Centre at the Calgary Central Library. The funding will support the acquisition of language resources, as well as programming that preserves Indigenous culture and heritage....
January 18, 2019
Canadian Geographic Indigenous Peoples Atlas of Canada given to Alberta schools
The province is providing every Alberta junior high and high school with a copy of the Canadian Geographic Indigenous Peoples Atlas of Canada. The initiative is to help bring First Nations, Métis and Inuit history and contributions to life in classrooms across the province....
December 14, 2018
New K-12 Curriculum approved for field testing
Alberta Education and the Alberta Teachers’ Association have approved the kindergarten to Grade 4 curriculum for field-testing within classrooms. This curriculum rewrite is the first of its kind in Alberta. It focuses on rewriting all core subject areas at once so that all subjects complement each other, allowing students to develop literacy, numeracy and competencies...
November 15, 2018
The Indigenous Languages in Education grant program
The Indigenous Languages in Education grant program invests $6 million to increase Indigenous language teacher capacity and expand resource development for early childhood education, as well as kindergarten to Grade 12 Indigenous languages. The grant program will provide funding through two streams. The instructor development stream will provide $4 million in funding over two years...
November 10, 2018
Tripartite Memorandum of Understanding on Jordan’s Principle.
Honourable Jane Philpott, Minister of Indigenous Services alongside Chiefs from Maskwacis, Chief Joseph Weasel Child from Siksika Nation, Chief Clara Moberly from Bigstone Cree Nation and Kee Tas Kee Now Tribal Council which are represented by the First Nations Health Consortium and Danielle Larivée, Minister of Children’s Services for the Government of Alberta will sign...
October 31, 2018
Bill 22 – “The Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act”
Bill 22 – “The Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act” overhauled with 26 recommendations including formal notification of an Indigenous child’s band following an application for private guardianship, mandatory home inspections and cultural connection plans, strict new public reporting requirements around deaths and injuries, and funding for supports being tied to a child, rather than...
October 15, 2018
IndigeSTEAM, a youth outreach program
IndigeSTEAM is a youth outreach program that was established to bring more diverse perspectives and seeks to eliminate barriers Indigenous youth face in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). As of September 30, 2018, the Association for Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta reports that of it’s total membership base of 76,400 members only 323...
October 10, 2018
Draft Curriculum Review
This past spring, Alberta Education shared draft curriculum with Albertans to gather feedback on what students will learn in Kindergarten to Grade 4. The latest draft curriculum includes the feedback received to date. Targeted timelines for approval: Grades K-4: December 2018 Grades 5-9: December 2019 Grades 10-12: December 2020 to 2022...
October 2, 2018
Indigenous Health Transformational Roadmap 2018-2020
Release of “Indigenous Health Transformational Roadmap 2018-2020”. The Introduction states: “Any action in Indigenous health begins with knowing: the historical impact of legislation and policies on the health and wellbeing of Indigenous peoples in Canada, the current state of Indigenous health, and the health care rights of Indigenous peoples as laid out in international law, constitutional...
October 2, 2018
Indigenous Health Transformation Roadmap 2018-2020
Indigenous Health Transformation Roadmap 2018-2020 released by The Population, Public and Indigenous Health Strategic Clinical Network through Alberta Health Services states in its Executive Summary: The transformational roadmap is the first step on a long road forward for our Strategic Clinical NetworkTM. Now our work and journey together truly begins. The Indigenous Health Transformational Roadmap (TRM) marks...
October 2, 2018
Indigenous Health Transformation Roadmap 2018-2020
Indigenous Health Transformation Roadmap 2018-2020 released by The Population, Public and Indigenous Health Strategic Clinical Network through Alberta Health Services states: Ensure effective, accessible and comprehensive primary health care delivery with First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities across Alberta...
October 2, 2018
Indigenous Health Transformation Roadmap: 2018-2020
Release of “Indigenous Health Transformation Roadmap: 2018-2020” through the Population, Public and Indigenous Health Strategic Clinical Network of Alberta Health Services. Specific projects identified are: Recognize the value of Indigenous healing practices, establish policies to guide the implementation and administration of practices within AHS Expand access to Indigenous healing practices in the treatment protocols with...
July 18, 2018
Restorative justice programs
$360K in grants have been awarded to 16 organizations across Alberta to support voluntary restorative justice programs. Restorative justice focuses on the rehabilitation of offenders through reconciliation with victims and the community. These programs are an alternative or supplement to any sentence and can be initiated at any time during the criminal justice process....
June 18, 2018
Mandatory in-person, one-day course over the next three years
All current Alberta Public Service employees will participate in an in-person, one-day course over the next three years. The session will involve experiential learning with Elders through sharing circles, and participants will learn about Indigenous histories, residential schools, treaties and contemporary issues, and how they can apply what they learn to their work. Moving forward,...
June 14, 2018
Indigenous-focused programming at ECE Centres
$14.5 annually for three years. Alberta children are learning about traditional language and culture, with five new $25-a-day children care centres offering Indigenous-focused programming. Six Early Learning and Child Care (ELCC) centres across Alberta are implementing Indigenous-focused programming, including traditional drumming, storytelling and lessons in Michif, Blackfoot and Cree. Calgary: Little Sundance (Métis Calgary Family...
April 27, 2018
Aboriginal Languages Initiative
Aboriginal Languages Initiative (ALI) has distributed approximately $1.5M to Southern Alberta to support various initiatives. This includes: Almost $200,000 for the Tsuut’ina Nation’s Tsuut’ina Gunaha School Language Incorporation Strategy approximately $141,000 for Opokaa’sin Early Intervention Society’s Blackfoot Language Keepers, $358,000 for Peigan Board of Education Society’s Piikani Language Revitalization Project, $80,000 for the Aboriginal Friendship...
March 26, 2018
Affordable Housing Agreement
$6.15M Support the construction and renovation of off-reserve shelters and transitional housing for families fleeing family violence. Includes $1.9M for Mountain Rose Women’s Shelter to increase capacity Joint Working Group on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls The Alberta government has appointed three Indigenous community members and three members of the legislative assembly to...
February 20, 2018
Nations of Treaty 8 Urban Child and Family Services
Official grand opening of the Nations of Treaty 8 Urban Child and Family Services Office in Edmonton. The Treaty 8 First Nations of Alberta designed the concept of an urban office as an approach to provide prevention and early intervention services to children and families on reserve. The Urban Office will provide services to children...
February 7, 2018
New Educational Quality Standards
New educational standards will support student mental health, ensure educators have the tools they need to teach about Indigenous culture and boost student success. The new quality standards specify what competencies teachers, principals, school leaders, and superintendents must demonstrate to teach and lead in Alberta’s education system. In addition to renewing the focus on establishing...
November 20, 2017
“Speaking Out” a Special Report on LGBTQ2S+ Young people in the Child Welfare and Justice Systems”
Issued “Speaking Out a Special Report on LGBTQ2S+ Young people in the Child Welfare and Justice Systems” that emphasizes that they still experience higher levels of homelessness, suicide, mental illness, addictions, and violence. Encourages the Province to build new ways of supporting Indigenous communities to ensure sustainable and culturally responsive services that can grow and...
October 24, 2017
Education commitment to Indigenous history and contributions to life
Alberta Education is providing teachers with lesson plans to help bring First Nations, Métis and Inuit history and contributions to life in classrooms across the province. All students will learn about the history and legacy of residential schools and the history of First Nations, Métis and Inuit in Canada as part of the Government of...
September 28, 2017
Mandatory training scheduled for 2018
The Alberta government is planning to roll out mandatory training for public servants next year, focusing on Indigenous history, treaties and the legacy of residential schools. This is a follow-up to Premier Rachel Notley’s commitment in July 2015 to implement the goals of UNDRIP....
September 12, 2017
Revision of Alberta K-12 curriculum
Ministry of Education will work in collaboration with Nunavut and the NWT on the revitalization of the Alberta K- 12 curriculum. Included in the redesign will be the history, perspectives and contributions of First Nations, Métis, Inuit, and francophone people and will be focused on six subject areas: arts, language arts, math, social studies, science,...
July 20, 2017
Alberta funding for children on reserves
Govt. plans to provide more money and services to children at risk on reserves. Will no longer wait for federal govt to provide necessary funding and will negotiate later...
July 18, 2017
Funding for restorative justice initiatives
$360K support for restorative justice initiatives in communities across the province focuses on the rehabilitation of offenders through reconciliation with victims and the community....
July 12, 2017
Exploratory committee established
A city “exploratory committee” received $200,000 in municipal funding to start the process in 2014, Funds were allocated before the commission released its final report. The committee still needs to discuss details such as site location, artistic form, budget and timeline. (Edmonton Journal)...
July 12, 2017
Announcement that public memorial will be built in Edmonton
City officials announced that a public memorial will be built in Edmonton (Edmonton Journal)...
May 31, 2017
Indigenous Wisdom Advisory Panel
The Indigenous Wisdom Advisory Panel will advise Alberta’s Chief Scientist about how to incorporate Indigenous perspectives and traditional ecological knowledge into environmental monitoring. Based on a commitment to UNDRIP (CBC)...
May 18, 2017
Métis Nation of Alberta release three health reports
Métis Nation of Alberta released three health reports on Cancer, Injuries, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The reports mark MNA’s continued ground breaking attempts to gather significant health information specific to Métis citizens of Alberta....
February 14, 2017
First Nations Health Consortium
First Nations Health Consortium (11 First Nations and three Treaty areas representing 28% of total First Nations population) formed to work with Health Canada to deliver Enhanced Service Coordination to uphold Jordon’s Principal....
September 8, 2016
Order in Council granting Commissioners the authority to examine areas of provincial jurisdiction
The Government passed an Order in Council granting the same Commissioners with the authority to examine areas of provincial jurisdiction, such as child welfare, justice, and health. Alberta also established a Family Information Liaison Unit. The unit is intended to be a single point of contact where experienced front-line staff can provide families with information...
August 3, 2016
Support for MMIWG Inquiry
Ensure provincial powers are available to the commission to support their critical work in Alberta....
June 22, 2016
Joint Commitment to Action for Indigenous Training for Teachers
Alberta Education, The Alberta Teachers’ Association, The Alberta Association of Deans of Education, The Alberta School Boards Association, The Alberta Regional Professional Development Consortia, The College of Alberta School Superintendents and The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation signed a Joint Commitment to Action which will ensure all K-12 teachers receive additional training related to First Nations,...
June 1, 2016
Joint Commitment to Action
Alberta Education, the Alberta Teachers’ Association, the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation and four other education stakeholder organizations in Alberta signed the Joint Commitment to Action to ensure that all students learn about the histories, cultures and world views of First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples. The Alberta Teachers’ Association has begun to fulfill...
March 1, 2016
Cabinet approves mandatory training
Cabinet approved widespread, mandatory training for all civil servants.....
December 15, 2015
Action Plans to implement UNDRIP after Ministry reviews
Each ministry concluded its DRIP review in December, 2015 and are now formulating action plans to implement the principles and objectives of the UN Declaration so that First Nations, Métis and Inuit people are able to participate as equals in all aspects of Alberta’s society while maintaining their cultures and unique identities...
July 7, 2015
Premier’s open letter to each Ministry to conduct UNDRIP review
In an open letter to provincial cabinet members, Premier Notley asked each Minister to conduct a review of their policies, programs, and legislation that might require changes based on the principles of the UN Declaration....
March 27, 2014
Commitment to Indigenous history and residential schools
The Government of Alberta commits that all Alberta K-12 students will learn about the history and legacy of residential schools, along with the history of First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples of Canada. The curriculum will include enhanced mandatory content for all Alberta students on the significance of residential schools and treaties. Curriculum must include...
2008
FASD 10 year Strategic Plan
While FASD has a high profile in the operational plans of some Alberta government ministries serving children and youth, there is a gap in the plans to address FASD for ministries investment of $978,272 through the ICCI for the University of Regina to implement the Navigator-Advocates: Integrated Supports for Justice-Involved Indigenous Youth and Adults with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). This alternative to...
January 1, 1970
10-year FASD Strategic Plan
9 provincial government ministries – including Justice – and other agencies developed a 10-year FASD Strategic Plan to design, administer and develop prevention programs, assessment and diagnosis services, and support for those affected by the disorder coordinated through 12 FASD Service Networks in Alberta. http://fasd.alberta.ca/documents/FASD-10-year-plan.pdf...