A powerful message of unity has emerged from Alberta, with close to 500,000 residents signing a petition affirming their desire for the province to remain a part of Canada. The petition, delivered to Elections Alberta in late October 2025 by former MLA Thomas Lukaszuk, places the next move squarely in the hands of Premier Danielle Smith.
A Clear Choice for the Premier
The editorial argues that Premier Smith now faces two distinct paths. The first is described as politically expedient: calling a potentially divisive and destructive referendum to appease separatist elements within her own United Conservative Party and its base. The second path is framed as doing the right thing for Alberta's future: holding a vote in the Legislative Assembly where MLAs would formally affirm Alberta's place in Canada, a vote the editorial states would assuredly pass.
This approach, the piece contends, would circumvent the need for a formal referendum, which is not a legal requirement. The goal would be to end the ongoing threats of separation and allow the province to focus on building prosperity within Confederation.
Other Pressing Issues Demand Attention
The editorial also critiques the provincial government's focus on other matters, specifically its resistance to the federal assault rifle buyback program. It characterizes the premier's stance—justifying opposition by citing a right to fire at home intruders—as a dangerous step backward reminiscent of a "Wild West" mentality.
The argument points to the United States, with its high rate of gun ownership and gun homicide, as a cautionary tale. The editorial urges the government to redirect its energy toward solving core issues like housing, education, and healthcare instead of engaging in what it calls "mythical" battles over firearms regulation.
Call for Fairness in Resource Export Policy
A third letter highlighted in the piece addresses perceived inequity in federal environmental policy. It criticizes the federal Oil Tanker Moratorium Act (Bill C-48) for creating an uneven playing field between provinces. The law bans large tankers carrying Alberta oil from northern British Columbia ports, while allowing substantially larger coal shipments from the same areas.
The letter argues that coal exports generate significant environmental hazards, including dust and heavy-metal runoff, yet face no similar moratorium. The call is for evidence-based regulation and balanced stewardship that holds all resource sectors and provinces to a consistent standard, allowing Alberta fair access to global markets.
The collective voice of nearly half a million petition signers presents a significant moment for Alberta's political leadership. The editorial's conclusion is a direct appeal: Premier Smith should listen to this substantial segment of the populace and choose the path of unity within Canada through a legislative vote.
