By John Q. Hosedrinker 
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“Stop with the nonsense”: Calgarians line up to oppose Alberta separation, that’s the sentiment echoing through the city, and frankly, it’s not hard to understand why. The whole idea of Alberta breaking away from Canada seems to be a fringe concept, mostly supported by a small group, if any, and frankly, it’s bewildering that it’s even a topic of conversation. Some folks are simply bewildered, wondering who these “morons” are that think they can just pack up and leave. This country belongs to everyone, and if you want out, well, there’s an option for you, move.
It’s almost like we’re in some kind of strange twilight zone. Then, you look at the voting patterns, and it’s a head-scratcher, particularly the fact that the current provincial leadership might even consider things like the AISH program to be on the chopping block. For people who rely on programs such as this, the idea of separation is terrifying. We’re talking about individuals with real needs, people facing challenges like Tourette’s, OCD, and autism, who depend on these supports to survive. Then, there’s the very real fear that if Alberta became part of the US, those supports would vanish.
Glancing towards the US, one thing is clear: there is a sense of weariness. There are people pointing fingers, asking if the same Albertans who are currently voting for certain parties, are the same ones who keep pushing for these ideas. Will the UCP re-election keep happening? Then they are shocked pikachu that it keeps happening. What’s even more concerning is the practical side of it all. Can Alberta even function on its own? What would be its economic engine if it were a fully independent country? And the question keeps coming back: “Down With This Sort Of Thing!” Because, there are folks who want the names of those who even entertain this idea. They want the opportunity to encourage them to move, and never come back.
There’s a certain level of bewilderment that an area would even want more autonomy from the larger area. The larger area is not happy to lose revenue from its smaller area. There’s an understanding that a political organization that doesn’t allow for detachment is a form of servitude. And, in some corners, there is a feeling that if Alberta were to try to break off, the larger area would be unhappy. While Brexit was seen as stupid, a lot of people felt it was the right of the people living there. Why doesn’t Alberta deserve self-determination? The media is always keen on running stories about a small fringe of people. The majority of people are normal and reasonable.
There’s also a clear awareness of the complexities involved. Alberta can’t just declare independence. There’s no formal exit clause, and that’s where the Clarity Act comes in. It sets out the rules for negotiations if a province wants to leave. The law makes it clear that it wouldn’t just be Alberta deciding; it would involve the federal government, the other provinces, and First Nations groups. While secession isn’t “impossible,” it’s highly unlikely. And it’s important to be clear on this: it wouldn’t be a simple process. Any province could theoretically declare independence, but whether that’s recognized internationally is a different story.
There are concerns being expressed that social media, can be used to weaponize opinions. That targeted influence campaigns are being used to stir up feelings. People can be influenced by groups, using social media. Foreign influence is a threat to national security. The black box of social media algorithms, can be a danger, and it needs to be addressed.
Finally, there are those who think the US might not be far away. The idea that the US would simply step in and take Alberta if it voted to separate, isn’t completely dismissed by everyone.