A member of the Alberta Prosperity Project, a prominent pro-separation group, has stepped down following the use of a racial slur during an event where the group introduced a preliminary constitution for an independent Alberta.
The gathering, organized by the “Stay Free Alberta” citizen initiative petition, included a presentation of the draft constitution named the “Foundation of Freedom.” Ian Parkinson, one of the contributors to the document, made offensive remarks targeting individuals of Sikh, Muslim, or Arab descent during the event in Airdrie.
In response to Parkinson’s comments, Mitch Sylvestre, the leader of the Alberta Prosperity Project, announced Parkinson’s immediate resignation from the group and stated that Parkinson would no longer be involved in any of the group’s activities or events.
The derogatory statement made by Parkinson drew criticism from various quarters, including separatist members who expressed concerns about being associated with such remarks. Keith Wilson, co-leader of the pro-independence group Let Alberta Decide, condemned Parkinson’s comment, emphasizing that it does not align with the values of those supporting independence in Alberta.
The draft constitution, known as the “Foundation of Freedom,” proposed by the Alberta Prosperity Project, has faced backlash from within the separatist community for its unconventional propositions, such as the establishment of an oversight branch in the government and the election of judges in a sovereign Alberta.
Despite the presentation of the draft document, there is a lack of consensus among separatist groups, with some prominent leaders distancing themselves from the proposed constitution. Bruce Pardy, a key figure in the independence movement, declined to endorse the document, citing significant flaws and the need for further debate on the matter.
The event, which aimed to spark discussions on a potential Alberta constitution, highlighted divisions within the separatist movement, signaling a lack of unity as the referendum approaches. Political experts suggest that the absence of a clear plan for separation could raise questions among Albertans as they prepare to vote on October 19.