Alberta Voices: Your comments on separation for Thursday, July 16, 2026

From now until the Oct. 19 referendum in Alberta, the Calgary Herald and Edmonton Journal are publishing your thoughts about the upcoming vote and issues related to separation. Here are some of the latest emails we’ve received. I was born in Alberta, and have spent 40 of my 80 years living, working and paying taxes [...]

* * * * The discussion and the money and effort to promote any concept of separation is absolutely ridiculous and a total waste of taxpayer dollars.

– Dan James * * * *

My experience of 99 years living and enjoying Alberta and Canada tells me separating is the dumbest idea a political party could come up with, to satisfy some group of radicals so they could stay in power. However, changes are needed so that we are receiving the same benefits the East gets, but (that doesn’t occur) by us separating. –

Nestor Cebuliak * * * *

Separatism is a cancer in Alberta born from frustrations with COVID-era policies which resulted in many people feeling left behind. It’s being sold to Albertans wholesale as a one-size-fits-all solution, but fails to take into consideration the immense negative effects it would have on our economic development and long-term prosperity. The thought leaders of the movement are pushing estimations, projections, fantasy, and more.

They are supported by networks of bots, and propagandists who all align on narratives and stoke the fire within the base. They do not have best wishes of Albertans at heart, and they are using the frustration of some to cultivate wealth, fame, and influence. What’s worse is that we have a provincial government that constantly appeases this group.

This has resulted in legislation and media attention, which amplify the legitimacy of the movement. Alberta is far stronger within Canada, and we’re now seeing improvements. Whether these improvements can be associated directly with the threat of separatism is yet to be seen.

One thing is for certain: an Alberta alone will always need to negotiate from a position of weakness. Be wary of those who sell sure solutions in times of uncertainty. – Brad Lindsay * * * *

Just NO, NO and NO to separation. – M. Bose * * * * The 2026 Alberta separation referendum is a lot of hot air and a waste of money.

The maximum support would be in the mid or low 20s percentage range, which is even lower than Trump’s approval rating. There are just not enough benefits to separating. – J.D. Hansen * * * *

Alberta Voices is a Calgary Herald/Edmonton