Alberta's separatism movement seeks referendum as national unity rises

Organizers in Alberta are collecting signatures for a non-binding referendum and must gather about 178,000 names by May 2; meetings between separatist representatives and U.S. officials have been confirmed, drawing criticism from other provincial leaders.

Separatist organizers in Alberta are campaigning to force a provincewide referendum on independence and have an approved question on the ballot. The petition drive is active across small towns and larger cities, with rallies and signature-gathering events reported in multiple locations. The effort has drawn attention because representatives have met with U.S. officials and because national unity is a heightened topic across Canada. Provincial leaders have offered differing responses as the petition deadline approaches. Key facts: - The referendum question has been approved by Elections Alberta and would be non-binding if held. - Organizers must collect about 178,000 signatures (10 per cent of votes cast in the last election) by May 2 to trigger the referendum process. - Separatist representatives have confirmed meetings with U.S. State Department and White House officials, which prompted criticism from other provincial leaders. - Public opinion polls place support for independence in the roughly 20–30 per cent range, and there is limited evidence the movement has expanded beyond its current base. Summary: If petition organizers meet the signature threshold, a non-binding referendum would follow and could lead to fraught negotiations between Alberta and the federal government. The next clear procedural milestone is the May 2 deadline for signature collection; the longer-term political consequences depend on results and subsequent actions by provincial and federal officials.