Alberta’s New Democrats Renew Call for UCP MLAs to Sign Pledge Denouncing Separatism

News Release

Alberta’s New Democrats Renew Call for UCP MLAs to Sign Pledge Denouncing Separatism

EDMONTON- Today, Alberta’s New Democrats renewed the call for every Alberta MLA to sign a simple and straightforward pledge denouncing separatism and standing with Team Canada.

“As of Friday morning, all 38 of Alberta’s New Democrat MLA’s have signed this pledge, and not a single UCP or Independent MLA has, including Premier Smith,” said Rakhi Pancholi, Deputy Leader of Alberta’s New Democrats.

“This should be an easy document for all Alberta elected officials to sign. Are UCP MLAs proud Albertans and proud Canadians? Or are they separatists? Their silence speaks volumes.”

In addition to the economic threats and the geopolitical risks Danielle Smith is fueling with her separatist rhetoric, Alberta’s New Democrats highlighted the constitutional consequences of separatism.

“Separatism threatens treaty rights, which are constitutionally protected,” said Brooks Arcand-Paul, Alberta’s New Democrat Shadow Minister for Indigenous Relations. “And let me tell you what elders have taught me: the Treaties will never be up for negotiation. Treaties are not optional. Treaties are not an afterthought. Our province, country, and our constitution exist because of them.

“We are all Treaty people, and we all have a responsibility to protect and fight for the fundamental rights of Indigenous Peoples.”

“Albertans deserve a government that prioritizes security, prosperity and the everyday challenges people need help with here at home,” said Pancholi.

“We swore an oath of allegiance to our province and country. If Danielle Smith and the UCP can’t clearly denounce separatism and put the needs of Albertans first, then it’s time for a new government that will.”

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