A member of a well-known pro-separation organization, the Alberta Prosperity Project, has stepped down following the use of a racial slur at an event where the group unveiled a preliminary constitution for an independent Alberta. The gathering, hosted by the group affiliated with the “Stay Free Alberta” citizen initiative petition, featured the participation of the Black Hat Gang from Medicine Hat, who contributed to the plan and presented the document.
Ian Parkinson, a member of the Black Hat Gang, co-authored the draft constitution named the “Foundation of Freedom,” which was showcased in Airdrie and live-streamed. During the event, Parkinson made a derogatory comment that drew applause from the audience, targeting Sikh, Muslim, or Arab individuals in relation to cultural or religious headwear.
Subsequently, Mitch Sylvestre, the head of the Alberta Prosperity Project, announced that Parkinson had resigned from the group immediately, emphasizing that his remarks were not endorsed by the organization. The group clarified that Parkinson was not a board member or officer. Despite attempts to reach Parkinson for a response, there was no reply by the time of publication.
The incident sparked widespread criticism, even from within the separatist movement, with Keith Wilson of Let Alberta Decide condemning Parkinson’s statement for negatively impacting the entire cause. Meanwhile, the draft constitution put forth by the Alberta Prosperity Project faced backlash from other separatist groups over its provisions, such as the creation of a new government branch and the election of judges in an independent Alberta.
The lack of consensus among separatists was highlighted, with differing opinions on the proposed constitution and the necessity for a unified plan for potential separation from Canada. The discord within the movement signals ongoing challenges as the referendum approaches on October 19.
The draft constitution shared by the Alberta Prosperity Project serves as a starting point for discussions on a potential future Alberta constitution, with plans for a constitutional conference if separation is pursued and successful in a future referendum. Despite disagreements among independence groups, the aim is to engage in inclusive dialogue to shape a lasting framework for an independent Alberta.
