Forever Canadian Petition Nears Goal of Anti-Separatism Referendum in Alberta
Thomas Lukaszuk, a former Alberta politician, is leading the Forever Canadian campaign to solidify Alberta's place within Canada. The petition aims to make it official policy for Alberta to remain in the country and is gaining momentum, although it still needs more signatures to trigger a referendum. The effort is a direct response to renewed separatist sentiments within the province.
Signature Collection Update
The Forever Canadian petition has reportedly gathered 230,000 signatures with the help of approximately 5,000 canvassers. While this marks significant progress, the campaign still requires around 64,000 more signatures to reach the threshold of approximately 294,000 needed before the end of October to initiate a referendum under the existing rules.
Background on Alberta Separatist Sentiment
Separatist sentiment in Alberta resurfaced following the federal Liberals' election win in late April. Premier Danielle Smith's United Conservative government subsequently lowered the threshold for citizens to initiate referendums, including on the issue of separatism. Lukaszuk's petition was filed prior to this change, subjecting it to the older, stricter rules, including a shorter timeframe for signature collection.
The "Unity Bus" and Campaign Optimism
Speaking from his home and alongside the "Unity Bus," a recreational vehicle being used as a campaign hub, Lukaszuk expressed optimism. "We are on the home stretch. But this is a race, and you just don’t stop running when you think you’re doing well. You just continue running, and we haven’t hit the finish mark yet," he stated, emphasizing the need to continue pushing forward. The campaign's current signature count represents more than two-thirds of their goal at two-thirds of the way through the three-month signature gathering period.
Challenges and Mitigation Strategies
The campaign aims to surpass 300,000 signatures to account for potential disqualifications due to missing information like phone numbers or incorrect email addresses. Lukaszuk emphasized the need to collect potentially as many as 100,000 more signatures to feel confident in reaching the required number. Volunteers continue to canvass and collect signatures across the province, including in rural areas.
Government Stance and Opposing Views
Premier Danielle Smith has expressed a desire for a sovereign Alberta within a united Canada but has not endorsed Lukaszuk's petition. She and Justice Minister Mickey Amery have stated that a separate question regarding Alberta's potential separation from Canada should have been approved by Elections Alberta. The province’s chief electoral officer has referred the question posed by the Alberta Prosperity Project to court for a judicial review regarding its constitutionality.
