Rallies Held For and Against Alberta Separation as Referendum Looms

Attendees pray during a rally held by separatists at the Alberta Legislature in Edmonton on Aug. 29, 2026. The Canadian Press/Amanda Erickson

Rallies for and against Alberta separation were held in Edmonton and Calgary on Aug. 29, as the province’s referendum on whether to begin the legal process for a binding separation vote draws closer.

A pro-separation rally, organized by Alberta Prosperity Project, was held on the grounds of the Alberta Legislature Building in Edmonton, to coincide with the anniversary of the formation of Alberta.

Alberta became a province on Sept. 1, 1905.

“Ottawa is putting its elbows up to protect themselves from us,” Mitch Sylvestre, a lead organizer in the separation movement, said at the rally. “We think that’s backwards.”

Mitch Sylvestre speaks during an Alberta Prosperity Project rally at the Alberta Legislature in Edmonton on Aug. 29, 2026. The Canadian Press/Amanda Erickson

The event also featured prayer for the movement by pastors.

“Provide for us the wisdom and leadership needed as we seek your justice in this province,” one pastor said.

The referendum, scheduled for Oct. 19, will include 10 questions, including one asking whether the Alberta government should begin the legal process for a binding referendum on separation. The other questions cover issues including immigration, judicial appointments, and provincial jurisdiction.

Meanwhile, Naheed Nenshi, leader of the Alberta NDP, held a pro-Canada rally in Calgary on Aug 29.

Leader of the Alberta NDP Naheed Nenshi speaks to the media in Edmonton, on Feb. 27, 2025. The Canadian Press/Jason Franson

Nenshi said the rally would be “the first of many,” and a website for the campaign lists 13 rallies planned for venues across the province leading up to the referendum.

“In the midst of a trade war, it’s more important than ever for Albertans to join the rest of Canada to show unity and strength. Thank you to the hundreds of proud Albertans who came out to show their pride and mobilize to protect our country,” Nenshi wrote on X following the Aug. 29 event.

The Canadian Press contributed to this report.