An Alberta First Nation says it aims to defy Premier Danielle Smith’s government by establishing a safe haven for gender-affirming medical care — contrary to provincial law.

The Saddle Lake Cree Nation, located northeast of Edmonton near St. Paul, says health care is a right under Treaty 6 and falls under its inherent jurisdiction.

The First Nation has invoked the “medicine chest clause” provision from the treaty signed in 1876, which Indigenous Peoples interpret as a promise to provide comprehensive health care.