Screengrab from Twitter/AB Danielle Smith

By Canadian Press

Smith tweet draws backlash from Indigenous groups

Feb 13, 2023 | 8:55 AM

A tweeted video from Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is drawing backlash from Indigenous groups.

Smith’s video, which was published on Twitter on Friday morning, claimed Indigenous peoples and settlers “united to tame an unforgiving frontier” to ensure the “prosperity of future generations.”

University of Manitoba Indigenous history scholar Sean Carleton says Smith’s framing of the history of Canada’s relationship to Indigenous peoples reflects a concerning lack of understanding.

Smith was asked to apologize for the comments during her radio call-in show on Saturday.

She responded that Alberta has been a pioneer in its relationship with First Nations but noted there is a long history of not living up to commitments outlined in the Treaties.

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This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 13, 2023.

The Canadian Press