Catholic, Anglican bishops urge Albertans to consider referendum’s impact on vulnerable

The Catholic and Anglican bishops of Alberta are urging their congregations to contemplate the potential effects of upcoming referendum proposals on vulnerable communities. In a joint letter dated October 1, the five Catholic Bishops of Alberta express concern that ballot measures could impact children, the impoverished, the sick, and those socially isolated.

They state, "A person's worth does not depend on citizenship, income, ability or contribution to society." On October 19, Premier Danielle Smith's government will present Albertans with a series of questions to gauge public support for restrictions and fees on newcomers. These questions include whether to gain more control over immigration, set rules for access to services, and impose residency requirements and fees for certain newcomers.

The bishops acknowledge the legitimacy of these concerns but emphasize that any solutions must respect human dignity and avoid singling out any segment of the population for resentment or blame. They note that decisions regarding healthcare, education, and public resources should foster equitable access and responsible stewardship, taking future generations into account.

The three Anglican bishops of Alberta have also issued a statement echoing the Catholic bishops' concerns. They assert that Jesus taught compassion for all neighbors, regardless of belonging or status. The Anglican bishops state, "We have a responsibility to support and protect the lives, dignity and worth of everyone we meet, regardless of their identity or status in our eyes."

While both religious leaders refrain from endorsing specific voting choices, their letters advocate for considering the common good. The Catholic Bishops of Alberta's letter is signed by Archbishop Stephen A. Hero, Bishop William McGrattan of Calgary, Bishop David Motiuk of Grouard-McLennan, Archbishop Charles Duval of Edmonton, and Bishop Gary Franken of St. Paul.

The Anglican Bishops in Alberta letter is signed by Bishop Greg Kerr-Wilson of Calgary, Bishop David Greenwood of Athabasca, and Bishop Stephen London of Edmonton. Premier Danielle Smith's press secretary, Sam Blackett, stated that the government is eager to hear voter input on the immigration questions, which aim to address unsustainable immigration levels that strain public services.

The premier's office cites feedback from public town halls, including a Lloydminster event where mass deportations were cheered by the crowd. The immigration questions are part of a broader package of nine proposed by Smith on February 19, with a tenth question regarding Alberta's future relationship with Canada added later.