Alberta’s Stand on Firearms: A Cornerstone of Autonomy and Freedom

The conversation around Alberta’s sovereignty has intensified in recent years, with debates focusing on three primary The Alberta Prosperity Project views the lawful access and use of firearms as deeply intertwined with the principles of autonomy, freedom, and sovereignty. This perspective aligns closely with the concerns raised by the National Firearms Association (NFA) in response to recent federal firearms regulations.

The Threat to Alberta’s Autonomy

The Canadian government’s March 7, 2025 prohibitions, which added 179 more firearm models to the list of prohibited weapons, represent a direct challenge to Alberta’s autonomy. This federal overreach undermines the ability of the Province of Alberta to responsibly make decisions reflecting the values and needs of Albertans, particularly in rural areas; where firearms are essential tools for hunting and protecting livestock.

The NFA’s president, Rick Igercich, argues that these prohibitions are not about public safety but rather about political ideology. This statement aligns with the Alberta Prosperity Project’s stance that such regulations infringe on the personal freedoms of law-abiding citizens. The prohibition of firearms, including modern sporting rifles and even antiques, represents a systematic attack on hunters, sport shooters, and collectors. Such prohibitions put the sovereignty of Albertans and Canadians at stake.

Alberta’s pursuit of sovereignty is fundamentally about the right to self-determination.

The federal government’s unilateral actions on firearms regulation directly contradict this principle. By imposing blanket prohibitions without considering regional differences, the federal government undermines Alberta’s ability to govern itself effectively. Not to mention the negative economic impact these bans have and will further impose.

The firearms industry is an important part of Alberta’s economy, particularly in rural areas. The NFA points out that family-run shops have shut down and livelihoods have been destroyed as a result of these prohibitions. This economic damage further erodes Alberta’s autonomy and ability to prosper independently.

Your Call to Action

The Alberta Prosperity Project echoes the NFA’s call for Albertans to stand up for their rights. As Rick Igercich states, “This is your fight. This is our fight.” Albertans are encouraged to:

Support organizations fighting against unjust firearms regulations
Engage with local MPs to express concerns about federal overreach
Stay informed about firearms laws and their impact on Alberta’s autonomy

As Alberta continues its pursuit of greater autonomy and sovereignty, the issue of firearms rights will remain a critical discussion. The Alberta Prosperity Project believes that respecting the rights of law-abiding firearms owners is essential to preserving the freedoms that define Alberta’s unique identity within Canada. We are all painstakingly aware that the only citizens being impacted are those already abiding by the laws, not the criminals.

Looking ahead, the fight for lawful access to firearms is not just about guns—it’s about preserving Alberta’s autonomy, protecting individual freedoms, and asserting the province’s right to self-determination. As we approach future elections, it’s crucial for Albertans to remain vigilant and engaged in protecting these fundamental rights.

Further Reading:

The Alberta Firearms Advisory Committee report, which outlines recommendations for provincial firearms policy.
The Alberta government’s page on protecting Albertans’ rights, including information on the Alberta Bill of Rights Amendment Act, 2024.
The Canadian government’s announcement of additional prohibited assault-style firearms on March 7, 2025.
The Canadian Coalition for Firearm Rights’ list of newly prohibited firearms as of March 7, 2025.

The National Firearms Association’s overview of the December 2024 firearms prohibition.