A member of the leading pro-separation organization, the Alberta Prosperity Project, has stepped down following the use of a racial slur during an event where a draft constitution for an independent Alberta was unveiled. The event, hosted by the group responsible for the “Stay Free Alberta” citizen initiative petition, featured members of the Black Hat Gang from Medicine Hat who were acknowledged for their contributions to the plan.
Ian Parkinson, one of the members, was introduced as a co-writer of the draft constitution named the “Foundation of Freedom,” presented in Airdrie and live-streamed online. Parkinson’s derogatory comment, directed towards Sikh, Muslim, or Arab individuals regarding cultural or religious headwear, drew applause from some attendees.
In response to the incident, Mitch Sylvestre, the leader of the Alberta Prosperity Project, announced accepting Parkinson’s immediate resignation from the group, emphasizing that Parkinson would no longer be involved in any group activities or events. Sylvestre expressed strong opposition to the comments made by Parkinson and clarified that Parkinson was not a board member or officer of the organization.
The controversial remark by Parkinson was met with widespread criticism, with Keith Wilson, co-leader of the pro-independence group Let Alberta Decide, denouncing the statement as inappropriate and not reflective of the values of those supporting independence in Alberta.
The draft constitution presented by the Alberta Prosperity Project, known as the “Foundation of Freedom,” faced backlash from other groups within the separatist movement. The document included proposals such as the establishment of an oversight branch of government, no property taxes, and the election of judges in a sovereign Alberta.
The lack of consensus among separatist groups was evident, with differing opinions on the proposed constitution. While the draft document served as a starting point for discussions on a future Alberta constitution, it did not receive unanimous support from key figures within the movement.
With tensions within the separatist camp highlighted by recent events, some experts suggest that the independence movement lacks unity and a clear plan for separation. As the referendum approaches, questions about the feasibility and coherence of the separatist agenda remain unresolved. Alberta residents are set to vote on October 19.