Hundreds of Calgarians converged on Municipal Plaza this Saturday in a powerful demonstration against the provincial government's controversial tactics, particularly its use of the notwithstanding clause to end the ongoing teacher strike.
Organizers and Participants Voice Their Concerns
Despite being organized with limited time, the protest attracted more than 200 attendees who carried signs and voiced strong opposition to the United Conservative Party's recent actions. The event was hosted by prominent community figures including Dr. Victoria Bucholtz, a transgender rights activist and co-founder of Queer Citizens United.
The Alberta Civic Integrity Project organized the rally, though its members were not physically present. Other key speakers included Rory Gill, former Alberta CUPE president, private citizen Henry Wakoluk, and Jennifer Yeremiy, who is leading efforts to recall Education and Childcare Minister Demetrios Nicolaides. Gurinder Brar, NDP MLA for Calgary-North East, also attended and delivered a speech to the gathered crowd.
Notwithstanding Clause Emerges as Central Issue
The government's deployment of the notwithstanding clause has become a major point of contention for activists across different sectors. "The use of the notwithstanding clause is a major issue," stated Dr. Bucholtz. "We anticipate that's being used against the trans community with Bill 9, it's already been brought in against the teachers."
She emphasized the broader implications of the government's approach, adding: "What it shows is that, really, anyone's rights are up for negotiation." The sentiment was echoed throughout the protest as speakers took turns addressing the crowd from a elevated platform, passionately discussing what they described as the authoritarian nature of current government policies.
Calls for Political Action and Accountability
Protesters and organizers made clear their intention to send a strong message to Premier Danielle Smith and her government. Craig Coolahan, labour relations officer for the SAIT academic faculty association, stated: "It's a wake-up call for Danielle Smith and the UCP that we're organizing. We're unhappy. I think the recall petitions are probably the greatest thing that's happening right now, and likely to be the most effective."
Rory Gill, who met Smith in 2023, expressed skepticism about traditional political engagement: "I don't think anything will get through to her, debate or persuasion. I think it will need to be recalling her MLAs and weakening her position in the legislature."
The November 8th protest represents growing organized opposition to the UCP government's policies, with participants vowing to continue their efforts through various democratic means including recall petitions and continued public demonstrations.
