Danielle Smith avoids talk of separation at Alberta Day as referendum looms
Smith has called a vote for Oct. 19 that will ask Albertans whether the province should remain in Canada or hold a second, binding referendum on leaving the country.
Premier Danielle Smith did not address the subject of Alberta leaving Canada during her remarks on Alberta Day, which marks the province's joining of Confederation. In her speech at Calgary's Heritage Park, Smith emphasized Canada's recognition of Alberta's critical role as the nation's economic engine, stating, "We are Canada's economic engine.
More than ever, Canadians understand what Alberta brings to the country." The celebrations surrounding Alberta's 120-year history as a Canadian province took place over the weekend, with events culminating on Tuesday, the province's official birthday. Smith has scheduled a referendum for October 19 that will allow Albertans to decide whether to remain in Canada or seek a second referendum on separation.
Speaking to onlookers, Smith highlighted the commonalities between Alberta and Canada, saying, "Despite our differences, we have far more in common than what divides us." The event, which attracted families and individuals waving both Alberta and Canadian flags, was described by Heritage Park President and CEO Lindsey Galloway as a celebration of shared history and belonging, though some attendees had banners advocating for Alberta's independence.
A tent near the park's entrance even pushed for separation from Canada. While many attendees avoided discussing the matter when asked about their opinions, one attendee, Myra McClelland, expressed her desire for Alberta to be independent. On Saturday, separatists gathered in Edmonton to argue that Alberta would be better off without Canada after joining Confederation 121 years prior, while opposition Leader Naheed Nenshi organized a "Vote for Canada" rally in Calgary, advocating for the postponement of the fall referendum due to trade tensions with the United States.
Thomas Lukaszuk, organizer of the pro-federalist Forever Canadian petition with over 400,000 signatures, echoed these sentiments, urging Albertans to unite with Canadians in opposing economic threats. Smith, who indicated she will vote to retain Alberta's position in Canada, acknowledged tensions between Albertans and former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau over energy policies but stressed the importance of addressing grievances rather than ignoring them.
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