A former deputy premier of Alberta has highlighted the success of a petition he organized to affirm the province’s commitment to remain part of Canada, urging Premier Danielle Smith to address separatist sentiments. Thomas Lukaszuk revealed that his petition has garnered over 456,000 signatures, surpassing the required 294,000 threshold for potentially triggering a referendum. Lukaszuk emphasized that the large number of signatories, symbolizing 456,365 Albertans, demonstrates a clear rejection of separatism. During a recent press conference, Lukaszuk, surrounded by 61 boxes filled with signed petitions, called on the premier and Alberta MLAs to officially end the separatism debate.
The petition, known as “Forever Canadian,” was launched in response to separatist movements advocating for an Alberta independence referendum. Lukaszuk’s petition straightforwardly asks whether Alberta should continue its membership within Canada. While Smith’s government has expressed support for Alberta’s Confederation status, they have also reduced the signature threshold, making it easier for groups to propose a referendum on leaving Canada.
In contrast to the “Forever Canadian” petition, a rival initiative named the Alberta Prosperity Project poses a question about Alberta becoming a sovereign country and no longer a Canadian province. Lukaszuk expressed hope that a referendum may not be necessary, aiming to prevent further division among Albertans. Despite the emotional journey of collecting signatures, which involved traveling extensively and engaging with diverse communities, Lukaszuk described the process as healing. The signatures are now in the hands of Elections Alberta for verification, with results expected by Jan. 6. Lukaszuk hailed the petition as a historic accomplishment in Canadian politics, acknowledging the significance of the commissioner’s role in ensuring a fair and prompt verification process.
As the verification process unfolds, Lukaszuk looks forward to resuming his normal routine, hinting at mundane tasks like yard work and Halloween decorations. With a sense of fulfillment, Lukaszuk emphasized the significance of the petition’s impact, as supporters waved Canadian flags in celebration.