Alberta NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi is adopting a strategy of embracing patriotism while keeping federal NDP leader Avi Lewis far from the spotlight. His new initiative, 'For Alberta, For Canada,' aims to counter Premier Danielle Smith's approach to the upcoming separation referendum.
Nenshi's Pro-Canada Campaign
Nenshi has launched a digital campaign urging Albertans to stay in Confederation. The effort sidesteps the controversial figure of Avi Lewis, whose critiques of Alberta's oil and gas industry have stirred tensions. 'Premier Smith is following the David Cameron playbook,' Nenshi said. 'Pander to the separatists, empower them, make the referendum easier — then wrap herself in the Canadian flag and claim only she can save Canada.'
The provincial NDP's push will run until the October referendum. Nenshi encourages supporters to participate in a day of action on Saturday, including door-knocking and events. 'We'll be out attending events, knocking on doors, talking to people about Canada,' he stated.
Political Strategy and Coordination
Nenshi acknowledges the challenge of coordinating with other pro-Canada groups, such as Thomas Lukaszuk's Forever Canadian campaign. 'Because the legislation around referenda is poorly written, political parties have abilities that groups like Thomas's don't,' Nenshi explained. 'We're calling this campaign powered by the Alberta NDP, but signing up doesn't make you an NDP member.'
He has consulted veterans of Brexit and past Quebec referenda, emphasizing the need for a real campaign. 'You can't sleepwalk into this. You have to treat it like a real campaign — doors, lawn signs, the whole thing.'
Concerns About Over-Mobilization
Some worry that multiple pro-Canada voices might energize the separatist side. Nenshi rejects this, citing lessons from Brexit and the 1995 Quebec referendum. 'I absolutely reject the idea that this energizes the other side. That was exactly the mistake the Remain campaign made in Brexit.'
Despite the challenges, Nenshi remains committed. 'I'd rather not be doing this,' he admits, but insists it's necessary to prevent a post-referendum regret similar to Brexit.
