After engaging in extensive grassroots campaigning and virtual discussions over the past few months, the final weekend before the Oct. 19 referendum in Alberta has arrived. Albertans are gearing up to participate in the voting process where they will have the opportunity to respond to 10 referendum questions. Of particular interest is Question 10, which presents voters with the choice between Option 1 to remain in Canada or Option 2 to proceed with a second binding referendum on separation. The remaining nine questions focus on topics such as immigration and the Constitution.
Significant voter turnout has already been observed, with hundreds of thousands of ballots cast through advance polls and special ballots. Premier Danielle Smith has publicly disclosed her support for Option 1 and has been actively campaigning in various communities to encourage others to do the same.
Prime Minister Mark Carney is actively engaging with supporters at back-to-back rallies organized by Forever Canadian in Calgary and Edmonton. Carney emphasized the importance of unity and the need for individuals to exercise their voting rights, stating, “We are stronger together, and Canada’s worth fighting for. And fighting for is about showing up to vote.”
Further activities include a joint appearance by Smith, Carney, and former premier Ed Stelmach at an event hosted by the campaign Vote to Stay in Red Deer. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre will also be in Calgary to advocate for a united Canada at the Canada Strong and Free conference, where discussions on Confederation are expected to take place.
Separatist groups, such as Let Alberta Decide led by Keith Wilson and Tanya Clemens, are organizing events to promote Alberta’s independence. Notable figures within the separatist movement, including Cory Morgan, Chris Scott, and Lawrence Magee, known as Berta Proud Dad, will gather at the Alberta independence rally outside the legislature.
To counter the separatist movement, the Alberta Federation of Labour (AFL) is planning a province-wide day of protest on Saturday to advocate for unity. The AFL will host a rally at the legislature on Sunday, with Forever Canadian leader Thomas Lukaszuk and NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi slated to address the attendees.
As the referendum draws near, various events and rallies are set to take place, highlighting the diverse perspectives and passionate engagement of Albertans in shaping the future of their province. The voting process will culminate on Monday, with polls open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with possible extensions at select locations to accommodate high voter turnout.