Summer is well on its way in Alberta, bringing with it long evenings, mountain air that feels a little fresher, and the familiar pride that comes with gathering to celebrate Canada Day. In communities across our province—especially here, where the landscape itself reminds us how fortunate we are—this season is usually about connection: barbeques, festivals, and a shared appreciation for the place we call home.
This year, however, that unity and sense of togetherness is being tested.
On October 19, Albertans will be asked to weigh in on a series of referendum questions, ten in total, including one that raises the possibility of Alberta separating from Canada. When I ran for MLA, I never thought I would need to fight for my country in this way.
Over the past several months, residents have been reaching out with questions. For anyone seeking clear, up-to-date information about voting and the referendum process itself, Elections Alberta remains the best source. You can find detailed guidance on their website: Referendum – Elections Alberta.
How did we get here?
I’ve lived in Alberta my whole life and I, too, sometimes feel like our potential is overlooked or underestimated by the Federal Government. While I understand the grievances that are the foundation of the separatist sentiment, I think we are stronger when we work together to build a better Canada and a better Alberta. Separation, even as an idea, doesn’t and isn’t serving Albertans or our great province.
There are already concerns that even holding such a vote creates uncertainty for investors and businesses, affecting jobs and economic stability across the province. Some estimate that we’ve already lost billions in economic investment due to this uncertainty. More broadly, it raises questions about Alberta’s place in Canada and what the future could look like if that relationship were fundamentally altered.
The current government made a series of changes to citizen led referendum legislation and policy over the last three years that has made it easier for the separatist petition and referendum question to move forward. Along with my colleagues in the opposition, we have pushed against every one of those changes.
In addition to the estimated $100 million price tag for the referendum, the whole thing represents a significant distraction from the issues that matter most day-to-day in the lives of Albertans. At a time when Albertans are grappling with rising costs of living, pressures on the healthcare system, and challenges in education, there is a never-ending list of issues and solutions where that $100 million would have been spent.
Additionally, there are real risks to the nine other questions that are being proposed on the referendum. Many of the questions relate to immigration, and risk creating deeper division in our communities.
Albertans are being asked to weigh in on major, complex issues without a clear path forward attached to them. Some questions are seen as symbolic rather than practical; others, like separatism, carry enormous real-world implications but little clarity about what would come next.
Celebrating Unity
Canada Day offers a reminder of what connects us beyond policy disagreements or political lines. Being Canadian is not just a legal status or a constitutional arrangement—it’s something experienced in everyday life. It’s reflected in how we show up for one another, in the landscapes we protect, in the communities we build together.
Here in our region, that connection is especially tangible. The mountains, the rivers, the shared spaces we steward—these are reminders of a relationship not just with the land, but with each other. It’s a way of living that depends on cooperation, respect, and a recognition that we are stronger together than apart.
I believe in collaboration and working together to create something better. The months ahead will no doubt bring more debate, more discussion, and more questions. That’s not a bad thing. Democracy depends on debate and participation, and this referendum will ultimately be shaped by the voices of Albertans who choose to engage with it.
I love Canada and I love Alberta. To me it is that simple, but I know it’s much more complicated for others. As MLA, I have learned that listening is more important than talking. Everyone’s perspective and feelings are valid, and I truly think life is much more interesting when we disagree but also when we listen to each other with curiosity and respect. To me, that’s part of being Canadian. I invite you to listen with curiosity. Separatism is all about dividing us – don’t let it. We are better together.
But as we head into summer—and as Canada Day celebrations begin—it’s also worth taking a moment to reflect on what unites us. Regardless of where one stands on any given question, this is a chance to think carefully about the kind of province, and the kind of country we want to be part of.
Happy Canada Day and I hope your summer is filled with interesting conversations, cool drinks on a warm day, and so much bbq deliciousness! My staff and I will be at as many community events as possible throughout the summer and we can’t wait to get to know you better!
Sarah Elmeligi
Free Classifieds