A member of the Alberta Prosperity Project, a significant pro-separation group, has stepped down following the use of a racial slur during an event where the group unveiled a preliminary constitution for an independent Alberta. The gathering, organized by the “Stay Free Alberta” citizen initiative petition, featured the Black Hat Gang from Medicine Hat, who played a role in developing the plan and presented the constitution.
Ian Parkinson, introduced as a co-author of the constitution named the “Foundation of Freedom,” made a derogatory comment regarding cultural or religious headdresses, drawing applause from some attendees. In response to the incident, Mitch Sylvestre, the leader of the Alberta Prosperity Project, announced Parkinson’s immediate resignation from the group, emphasizing that his comments were not endorsed or tolerated.
The Black Hat Gang, affiliated with Parkinson, had previously engaged with senior government officials to propose a new rights document for Albertans in 2024. Parkinson, however, was confirmed not to hold an official position within the Alberta Prosperity Project.
Criticism of Parkinson’s remark was widespread, with Keith Wilson, a co-leader of the Let Alberta Decide group, condemning the comment as divisive and not representative of the broader separatist movement. The draft constitution, termed the “Foundation of Freedom,” has faced backlash for its unconventional proposals, including the establishment of an oversight branch and the election of judges in an independent Alberta.
Disagreements over the constitution highlight the lack of consensus within the separatist community, with varying opinions on the viability of the proposed document. Sylvestre clarified that the draft constitution presented was intended to spark discussions and would be subject to further refinement through a constitutional conference in the event of a successful referendum for separation.
The ongoing discord among separatist factions underscores the challenges of presenting a unified plan for Alberta’s potential independence as the upcoming referendum draws near. Political observers suggest that the lack of a cohesive strategy could raise questions among Albertans about the practicalities of secession from Canada. The provincial election is scheduled for October 19.