Alberta Separatist Movement Intensifies Petition Drive Amidst Public Opinion Divide

Independence Petition Campaign Underway

A campaign to trigger a referendum on Alberta's independence from Canada is gaining momentum, with organizers actively collecting signatures across the province. The Alberta Prosperity Project, through its 'Stay Free Alberta' initiative, aims to gather 177,732 signatures by May 2, 2026. If successful, this citizen-initiated petition would force a vote on the question: 'Do you agree that the Province of Alberta should cease to be part of Canada to become an independent state?'

The movement's proponents cite economic and political grievances, including perceived federal overreach, Canadian fiscal policies such as equalization payments, and a desire for greater control over Alberta's natural resources, particularly its petroleum industry. Historically, separatist sentiment in Alberta has often been tied to federal energy policies and a feeling of the province being disadvantaged by Ottawa.

Public Opinion Remains Divided

Despite the active petition drive, recent polling suggests that the majority of Albertans wish to remain within Canada. Surveys from various firms, including Leger, Angus Reid, Ipsos, and Pollara, consistently show that approximately 65% to 71% of residents would vote to stay in Canada if a referendum were held today. However, these polls also reveal a notable segment, ranging from 20% to 29%, who support or lean towards the idea of separation. Support for independence is reportedly higher among voters of the United Conservative Party (UCP).

In a counter-movement, a 'Forever Canada' citizen initiative, led by former deputy premier Thomas Lukaszuk, successfully collected over 438,000 signatures. This petition aimed to affirm Alberta's place within Canada and could also potentially trigger a referendum on remaining in the federation.

Government's Stance and Legislative Changes

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has publicly stated her support for a 'sovereign Alberta within a united Canada' and has not signed the separatist petition. However, her government has enacted legislative changes, notably the Alberta Sovereignty Within a United Canada Act, passed in December 2022. This act provides a legal framework for Alberta to challenge federal laws and policies deemed unconstitutional or harmful to the province's interests. Critics and observers note that the UCP government has also made it easier for citizen-initiated referendums to proceed by reducing the required number of signatures, a move that has facilitated the current separatist petition campaign.

The debate surrounding Alberta's place in Canada continues to be a significant political issue, driven by a complex interplay of economic factors, provincial identity, and federal-provincial relations.