A member of the Alberta Prosperity Project, a pro-separation organization, has stepped down following his use of a racial slur during an event where a draft constitution for an independent Alberta was presented. The event, organized by the group responsible for the “Stay Free Alberta” citizen initiative petition, included members of the Black Hat Gang from Medicine Hat, who played a role in developing the plan and unveiled the document.
Ian Parkinson, a member of the Black Hat Gang, was introduced as a co-author of the draft constitution named the “Foundation of Freedom” during the event in Airdrie, which was also live-streamed. Parkinson made a derogatory statement that drew applause from the audience, prompting swift condemnation.
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 group clarified that Parkinson was not a board member or officer.
Parkinson’s remark received widespread criticism, with Keith Wilson, co-leader of the pro-independence group Let Alberta Decide, denouncing the comment as harmful to the separatist movement’s reputation. Wilson highlighted the importance of distancing from such statements that do not align with the values of supporters of Alberta’s independence.
The draft constitution presented by the Alberta Prosperity Project faced backlash from other separatist groups due to its contentious proposals, including the creation of an oversight branch in the government, abolishment of property taxes, and the election of judges in a sovereign Alberta. The lack of consensus among separatists was evident, with differing opinions on the viability and merit of the proposed constitution.
Sylvestre emphasized that the draft constitution was intended to spark discussions for a potential future Alberta constitution and would undergo further refinement through a constitutional conference if a binding referendum on separation were to occur. The need for unity and a clear plan within the separatist movement was underscored by political analysts as Albertans prepare to vote on October 19.