A citizen-driven petition in Alberta advocating for the province to remain a part of Canada has been successfully validated by Elections Alberta. The initiative, known as the Alberta Forever Canada petition or “Forever Canadian” petition, required 293,976 signatures for approval. Elections Alberta confirmed that out of the 438,568 signatures counted, 404,293 were verified through a statistically reliable sampling method with a 95% confidence level.
The purpose of the Forever Canadian petition is to oppose Alberta separatists who are advocating for a referendum on the province’s independence. Former deputy premier Thomas Lukaszuk initiated the petition, posing the question: “Do you agree that Alberta should remain within Canada?”
Approximately 13.6% of eligible voters in Alberta are estimated to have signed the petition, according to Elections Alberta. While the petition could potentially trigger a referendum, Lukaszuk has expressed a preference for the legislature to consider and vote on the petition’s question, rather than holding a divisive and costly referendum.
Lukaszuk highlighted the significant number of signatures collected as a clear indication of public sentiment and urged the government to take appropriate action. The policy proposal stemming from the petition was officially submitted to the Speaker of the legislature by Elections Alberta.
Given the legislative requirements, the Speaker is obligated to present the proposal to the assembly, and within 10 sitting days, a legislative committee will review it. The committee may either issue a report on the proposal or recommend it for a referendum. If a referendum is advised, it must be conducted by the next provincial general election on October 18, 2027.
Political science professor Lori Thorlakson from the University of Alberta noted that while the exact impact of the petition remains uncertain, it could spark changes within the provincial government, potentially influencing dynamics within political parties like the UCP and the Alberta Party.
Justice Minister Mickey Amery’s office commended the petition organizers for their efforts and stated that the government would deliberate on the next steps in compliance with the legislation following the successful verification of the petition.