AI-generated illustration; not a photograph of the reported event.
- calendar_today October 11, 2026
Calgarians Gather to Discuss the Looming Alberta Referendum
With Alberta's referendum approaching, residents visiting the Seton branch of the Calgary Public Library voiced a wide range of emotions and opinions. CBC News hosted a pop-up at the library to hear from locals as referendum campaigns entered their final week. Visitors of all ages participated, adding their thoughts to a community board and speaking about what matters most to them as voting day nears.
Anticipation and Excitement Among Some Voters
Jim Fedor, a Calgarian interviewed by CBC Radio's The Homestretch host Jenny Howe, expressed enthusiasm for participating in the referendum set for October 19. Fedor was eager to vote, stating, "I'm looking forward to it. Never voted in a referendum like this before, so it'll be something new." Fedor plans to vote for Alberta to stay in Canada and reject the other nine referendum questions. He emphasized the importance of voting, saying, "I feel quite lucky to be able to vote and make my vote count." Others at the library shared similar anticipation about having a say in Alberta politics.
Frustration and Anger Over the Referendum Process
Not all visitors shared Fedor's optimistic outlook. Christine Nelson, another patron, expressed disappointment about the referendum, citing concerns over the use of taxpayer funds for a vote she believes most do not support. "The majority of people do not want to separate, and we have to spend taxpayers’ money to vote on something that's not going to go through unless there's some kind of, you know, crookedness going on. It's ridiculous," Nelson remarked.
Charmaine Coutinho echoed these feelings, concerned over increased divisions and what she described as "legitimizing these extreme perspectives through government actions." Like Nelson, Coutinho intended to vote "no" on all questions and supported staying in Canada.
Michael Chudleigh, also at the event, agreed with the sentiment to oppose separation but emphasized openness to differing views, stating, "I'm trying not to be angry about the whole thing and understand that those who disagree with me have their reasons, even if I can't see them."
Political Divisions and Personal Relationships
Political divisions over alberta separation even impacted friendships. Two senior women, regular coffee companions, differed on separation. One, whose father fought for Canada, is passionate about unity, while the other is open to exploring the idea of leaving. The latter viewed the referendum as a conversation starter rather than a final decision, mentioning fears among some separatists over federal actions taken during past events.
Newcomers Emphasize Love for Canada
Messages left by library visitors demonstrated overwhelming support for canada unity. Many expressed love and gratitude for living in Canada. David Aldana, a permanent resident who immigrated from Colombia, shared, "If I could vote, I would stay with Canada, and because I feel that unity is better. I'm in love with Canada. I'm in love with the freedom that we have here." Other newcomers also voiced similar feelings even though they are not eligible to vote.
Concerns About Political Consequences
Some Albertans at the library questioned the wisdom and potential fallout of the referendum. One participant called the event a "nightmare," fearing it could backfire and shift political support in unexpected directions. Polling data cited by CBC News indicated support for independence dropped from about 27 percent in the spring to 23 percent by September, alongside declining support for Premier Danielle Smith’s United Conservative Party.
Others drew parallels with foreign events, such as a Ukrainian newcomer who was reminded of separation votes in Crimea and Donbas, while a public servant expressed hope for a transparent voting process.
Reflections on Unity and Diversity in Voter Opinions
Muaaz Asher, a Grade 10 student, noticed most classmates favored unity during school discussions on alberta independence. "It kind of just shows that as a country — it sounds a bit corny, but there's a lot of love and unity. I think that's really special, and I think we just can't give that up," Asher said.
Destiny Fox, another visitor, observed that strong opinions exist on both sides of the debate but not everyone feels comfortable expressing them publicly. She suggested the referendum provides an important opportunity for all voices to be heard, even for those who may not support separation.
Conclusion: Voices Reflect Range of Referendum Emotions
The event at the calgary library highlighted the diversity of voter opinions and referendum emotions. While many expressed strong support for unity and opposition to separation, others articulated frustration, concern, or openness to different outcomes. The referendum has sparked conversations across communities, revealing both the complexity of alberta politics and the significance of public input ahead of the vote.
Source: cbc.ca.
