EDMONTON - A petition aimed at affirming Alberta's commitment to Canada has garnered over 456,000 signatures, significantly surpassing the 294,000 needed to potentially initiate a referendum. Thomas Lukaszuk, a former deputy premier of Alberta and the petition's organizer, announced the milestone, emphasizing the strong support for remaining part of Canada.

The "Forever Canadian" petition was launched in response to separatist movements advocating for a referendum on Alberta's independence. It poses the question: "Do you agree that Alberta should remain within Canada?" Lukaszuk expressed confidence in the petition's success, stating, "The number of signatures don't surprise me because I know that the vast majority of Albertans are proud Canadians."

Lukaszuk believes that Albertans should have the chance to vote on this issue, either through a referendum or by having the legislature address it. Premier Danielle Smith's government has encouraged Alberta's continued participation in Confederation while also facilitating the process for groups seeking to hold a referendum on independence by lowering the signature requirement.

The separatist movement has gained traction, with recent rallies in Edmonton drawing thousands of supporters. One proposed question from the Alberta Prosperity Project asks: "Do you agree that the province of Alberta shall become a sovereign country and cease to be a province of Canada?"

Lukaszuk noted the diverse support for the petition, stating, "We have signatures from every corner of this province, from every demographic in this province, from Albertans of all political beliefs. The one thing that truly unites us as Albertans is our pride in being Canadian."

He added that the movement has fostered a sense of community among supporters. "What really surprised me is this movement. This has really created a community, a movement of sorts. Albertans have awoken. They have found their voice," he said.

As the debate over Alberta's future continues, the petition's success reflects a significant sentiment among many residents regarding their identity and place within Canada.