First Nations say Elections Alberta was unprepared for referendum turnout

First Nations in Alberta are celebrating the pro-Canada side’s win in Monday’s referendum, while raising concerns about ballot shortages in their communities. About three in four Albertans voted to remain in Canada, while about one in four wanted the province to hold a second, binding referendum on leaving.

Siksika Nation said it was pleased with the result, but its community polling station was understaffed and did not receive enough ballots from Elections Alberta. The shortage led to long waits and what the Nation called “unnecessary obstacles.” Tania Cameron, who helped increase First Nations turnout, said she was proud to hear that several First Nations polling stations had to request more ballots. She also said Elections Alberta should have been better prepared, adding that running short of ballots was a slap in the face to community members who wanted their voices heard. The article includes a 3:22 video about what the referendum results signal to Ottawa.