Alberta separatism pushes forward with referendum vote months away

Albertans are gearing up for a serious decision this fall: whether to begin the process of separating from Canada. The independence movement has mobilized volunteers and drummed up public support even as recent polling suggests a majority still favor staying in Confederation.

Morgan Schmidt, a grandmother from Sherwood Park, has spent five straight weeks canvassing on Baseline Road, five hours a day, advocating for separation. "We have such a great opportunity here, and we could capitalize on it, if we could get Ottawa out of it," she said.

North of Edmonton in St. Albert, homeowners Sheldon and Sharon Kok display a split Canada-Alberta flag outside their home—a visual statement about the transition they hope is coming. Though they still love Canada, they say they see no other choice for their children's future.

"We're really hoping for that spiritual reset and better access to our resources, and the ability to bring our resources to market better and have better fiscal balance between the provinces," Sheldon Kok said.

An Angus Reid Institute survey conducted May 22-24 found 60% of respondents would vote to stay in Confederation, while 35% said they would support beginning the separation process. About 75% of people whose minds are made up are deeply entrenched in their positions, unlikely to change their stance.

Earlier polling showed softer commitment: an Ipsos poll in January found about 30% of residents supported independence, but when faced with the costs and consequences, only half remained truly committed. A University of Alberta study indicated 20% of Albertans support separation.

The referendum is shaping up as one of the most significant votes in the province's history.