William Watson, a lifelong central-Canadian and Montrealer, admits he has spent only 30 days in Alberta. During a visit to Calgary, he joked about eastern Canadians coming to look at their oil, but the audience's reaction was negative. Despite his limited time in the province, he cannot understand the hostility toward Alberta separatism.
Separatism as a Symbol of Powerlessness
Watson argues that separatism is silly in both eastern and western forms, citing conservative skepticism about building castles in the air. He references Burke's caution against dismantling an edifice that has served society for ages. However, he adds a sentimental attachment to Canada's 160-year-old edifice and its landscapes.
Despite being misguided, separatists' arguments do not deserve the venomous contempt from figures like the CBC's At Issue panel. Watson points out that Quebec has used separatism as a threat for decades, with the 'knife to the throat' metaphor introduced by Léon Dion. Yet Albertans are told they cannot consider similar tactics.
Double Standards in Canadian Politics
Watson doubts that Alberta separatists are truly in it for a pipeline, but the unbuilt pipeline symbolizes powerlessness. Most Albertans want a pipeline, which would benefit the economy, but Ottawa, beholden to anti-fossil fuel voters in Quebec, makes approval nearly impossible.
He concludes that if he were an Albertan, he would resent central Canada too, given the unfair treatment and double standards.
