Within or Without — Holding the threat of Alberta separatism is the a last resort

Alberta stands as a province rich in potential, driven by the energy and resilience of its people. Yet, the province faces critical decisions about its future, choices that will define Alberta’s role within Canada. Today, many Albertans feel Alberta is at a crossroads—a moment where its economic, cultural, and political destiny is up for debate. And at the center of this discussion is the question of sovereignty.
 
It’s important to clarify: The Alberta Prosperity Project is not a separatist movement. 

Our vision for Alberta isn’t about breaking away from Canada but about renegotiating its relationship within the federation to ensure greater control (sovereignty) over provincial affairs. We aim for a relationship with Canada where Alberta’s prosperity and autonomy are respected and enhanced – we may need the lever of separation to achieve this. Maybe a new federal government will open the constitution and make it fairer to the western provinces.

Alberta’s Place in Canada’s Federation

Sovereignty, as defined by Merriam-Webster, means freedom from external control. In the context of Canada, a federation, sovereignty is reflected in the balance of power between provincial governments and the federal government. Provinces like Alberta are supposed to maintain control over areas such as education, healthcare, natural resources, and social services. The federal government handles broader national matters like defence, foreign policy, and telecommunications. We also have these unfair “equalization payments” to deal with.
 
However, the lines between provincial and federal jurisdiction have often blurred, leaving many Albertans feeling marginalized and underserved. In recent years, economic and political developments have deepened this frustration. The Alberta Prosperity Project argues that the federal government has overstepped, particularly in areas vital to Alberta’s economy, such as energy development and taxation. Unfortunately the federal government is expanding its overreach into health, education, immigration and seems to be intent on the collapse of the country for some global ideology.

Economic Grievances: A Disproportionate Burden

Alberta has long been a driver of Canada’s economic prosperity, particularly through its natural resources. The province’s oil and gas sector has contributed substantially to the national economy. However, this wealth has not always returned to Alberta in proportion to its contributions. Over the years, federal programs such as equalization have redistributed vast sums of Alberta’s wealth—over $700 billion—primarily to eastern Canada, with Quebec receiving the largest share.
 
In return, Alberta receives federal transfers for healthcare, education, and infrastructure, but these contributions pale in comparison to the province’s outflow. It also seems that these federal transfers are increasingly conditional on compliance with federal ideologies that are not reflective of provincial values. The financial disparity is a significant source of frustration for Albertans, especially when federal policies, such as the National Energy Program and restrictive energy regulations, have directly hampered Alberta’s economic growth. Alberta has lost over $200 billion in investment since 2006 due to such federal regulations, resulting in missed economic opportunities that would have benefited not only Alberta but all of Canada.

Governance and Autonomy: A Quest for Fairness

Sovereignty for Alberta is not just about economics; it’s about governance. The federal government’s interference in provincial matters has left Albertans feeling like second-class citizens in their own country. Policies such as Bill C-69, which limits pipeline development, and Bill C-48, the Oil Tanker Moratorium Act, have directly impacted Alberta’s ability to fully capitalize on its natural resources. These federal laws are seen as overreach into areas that should be under provincial control.
 
The Alberta Prosperity Project advocates for greater legislative authority for Alberta, particularly in areas that are crucial to the province’s prosperity—energy development, environmental regulation, and taxation. By gaining more control over these areas, Alberta can craft policies that better align with its unique economic and social realities.

Cultural and Human Rights Dimensions

The push for greater autonomy also stems from a sense of cultural alienation. Alberta’s distinct identity, shaped by its Western values and rugged individualism, often feels at odds with the national narrative. Grievances range from unresolved issues with Indigenous communities to federal policies like the Official Languages Act, which Albertans see as imposing unnecessary costs and limitations on the province.
 
Beyond culture, there are concerns about human rights and individual freedoms. During recent public health crises, Albertans felt their basic rights, such as freedom of speech and association, were infringed upon. Additionally, proposed federal legislation limiting the right to self-defense and ownership of firearms has alarmed many, further fuelling the desire for a greater degree of provincial control over such critical issues.

Learning from Quebec

Alberta’s quest for greater sovereignty has often drawn comparisons to Quebec, the province with the greatest autonomy in Canada. Quebec has carved out a unique position within the federation, securing control over immigration, pension plans, and other provincial matters. This was achieved through decades of political negotiations and strong advocacy for its cultural and economic interests.
 
The Alberta Prosperity Project believes Alberta deserves similar treatment. If Quebec can gain this level of autonomy, why can’t Alberta? This isn’t about abandoning Canada—it’s about ensuring fairness and equity within the federation. Alberta seeks to establish a relationship where its distinct economic, cultural, and political interests are respected, much like Quebec’s position within the country.

Within, Not Without Canada

The Alberta Prosperity Project’s vision is clear: Alberta’s future, its sovereignty, and its prosperity could remain within the Canadian federation, but this will take strong leadership at the federal and provincial level. This future must be one where Alberta is treated as an equal partner, where the province can exercise greater control over its affairs and ensure that its contributions to the nation are recognized and rewarded.
 
We believe in building bridges, not tearing them down. Alberta’s sovereignty movement is about creating a stronger, more prosperous province that can thrive within Canada. However, if this cannot be achieved, Albertans deserve the right to explore alternatives that prioritize their future.
 
Now is the time for Albertans to come together, to rally behind a common cause of sovereignty, prosperity, and fairness. Support the Alberta Prosperity Project in its efforts to advance Alberta Sovereignty and empower the Provincial government to uphold its sovereignty. This will allow Albertans to decide their own fate. Sign the petition and take a stand for Alberta’s future.

Your next steps:

Together, we can chart a path for a more sovereign and prosperous Alberta—preferably within Canada, but always with our future in our own hands.