Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has unveiled eight potential designs for new provincial licence plates, all featuring the slogan "Strong and Free," sparking a heated debate about what true provincial strength and freedom means in the context of interprovincial relations and resource development.
The Pipeline Controversy
In a recent letter to the editor, Keith Cummings from Telkwa, B.C., questioned whether Alberta's concept of being "strong and free" includes overriding the objections of other provinces and communities. "Does being strong and free mean it can negate others, say B.C., which doesn't want this pipeline to the Pacific?" Cummings asked, referring to the ongoing pipeline debate.
The writer challenged whether Alberta's strength should come at the expense of other jurisdictions' autonomy, particularly British Columbia communities like Prince Rupert and First Nations territories along the proposed pipeline route who have expressed opposition to the project.
Broader Political Discussions
The licence plate announcement comes amid several other political discussions in Alberta. In another letter, Nancy Marley-Clarke of Calgary defended Calgary's recent municipal election results, which produced a city council composed nearly entirely of men. She suggested that voters were "gender-blind and focused on issues" when selecting candidates based on their platforms rather than gender.
Meanwhile, the provincial government faces criticism over its use of legislation. Ken Bax from Airdrie noted the irony of Premier Smith expressing concern about petition drives not using recall legislation "in good faith" while her government recently used Section 33 of the Constitution to pass Bill 2, forcing teachers back to work and removing their bargaining position.
MAID Safeguards Debate
In healthcare discussions, Kerrie Hale, Co-Chair of Dying with Dignity Canada's Calgary chapter, responded to concerns about Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) safeguards. Hale argued that existing MAID eligibility requirements are already strict and rigorous safeguards are in place.
She cited data showing that most people accessing MAID come from higher socioeconomic backgrounds, and studies indicate increased use doesn't reflect greater utilization by marginalized populations. According to a 2023 Ipsos poll, 78% of people with disabilities support MAID access.
The collection of letters published in November 2025 reveals ongoing tensions between provincial autonomy and interjurisdictional respect, with the new "Strong and Free" licence plate slogan serving as a flashpoint for broader discussions about Alberta's place within Confederation.
