An indigenous community in Alberta is challenging the government’s restrictions on gender-affirming medical care by creating a sanctuary for such services. Saddle Lake Cree Nation asserts that healthcare is a treaty entitlement falling under their inherent authority. Last year, Premier Danielle Smith’s United Conservative Party government invoked the notwithstanding clause to shield legislation prohibiting puberty blockers and hormone therapy for transgender youth under 16.
Chief Dale Steinhauer denounced the law as dehumanizing and vowed to protect their children’s rights. The community, situated northeast of Edmonton, is actively recruiting healthcare providers to offer gender-affirming treatments on their reserve. They are also fundraising to establish and defend their health laws against potential legal battles.
Dr. James Makokis, a two-spirit family physician from Saddle Lake Cree Nation, emotionally highlighted the urgent need to address violence against two-spirit and transgender individuals. Steinhauer referenced Treaty 6’s medicine chest clause, signifying a pledge by the Crown to deliver comprehensive healthcare, a commitment criticized by Indigenous leaders for not being fulfilled.
The Alberta government faces criticism for enacting laws that impact transgender individuals, including requiring parental consent for name/pronoun changes for students under 16 and banning transgender athletes aged 12 and above from amateur female sports. A government spokesperson reiterated that these laws prioritize choice, parental involvement, and fairness in sports.
The Saddle Lake Cree Nation’s initiative aims to provide a safe haven for gender-affirming care, challenging the government’s regulations perceived as obstructing healthcare access for transgender individuals.
