A recent Leger survey conducted for the Association for Canadian Studies reveals a significant shift in Albertan identity. Only 34 per cent of Albertans now identify more strongly with their province than with Canada, a sharp decline from 45 per cent a year ago. This places Alberta as the province with the weakest provincial-first sentiment among Canadians.
Regional comparisons highlight Alberta's unique stance
In contrast, 60 per cent of Quebecers and 58 per cent of Atlantic Canadians prioritize their province or region over the country, despite their governments relying heavily on federal transfer payments. Manitoba and Saskatchewan follow at 53 per cent, while Ontario sits at 42 per cent. British Columbians are the most provincial-focused, with 66 per cent putting province first.
Columnist Lorne Gunter expressed mild surprise at Alberta's top ranking, having expected the province to place second or third. He notes that many Albertans have long held conflicting feelings about Canada—deep resentment toward the federal government coexisting with patriotic pride.
The duality of Alberta's relationship with Canada
Gunter writes: “We hold out hope that the federation can be made to treat us more fairly, but aren’t entirely unhappy to be Canadian.” He acknowledges days when federal politics infuriates him, particularly during Trudeau’s tenure, and when what he calls “Laurentian domination” of institutions and media grates. He cites TSN’s disproportionate coverage of the Toronto Maple Leafs as an example.
Despite these frustrations, Gunter affirms his love for Alberta: “There is absolutely no doubt that Alberta is where I want to live. I love the people, the culture and the landscapes.” He evokes the province’s natural beauty—the foothills, the Rockies, the Icefields Parkway—as reasons for deep attachment.
Passion for Canada evident in sports and celebrations
Gunter argues that Albertans’ Canadian patriotism is visible in their fervor for national sports moments. He recalls Oilers playoff crowds roaring “O Canada” at 120 decibels and Canada World Cup watch parties across the province. He highlights that the most-watched television event in Canadian history was Sidney Crosby’s “golden goal” at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, with 17 million viewers—nearly half the population—including almost three million Albertans. After the overtime winner, car horns blared and celebrations erupted in Alberta streets.
