A member of the Alberta Prosperity Project, a key pro-separation group, has stepped down following the use of a racial slur during an event where a draft constitution for an independent Alberta was presented. The gathering, organized by the “Stay Free Alberta” citizen initiative petition, included members of the Black Hat Gang from Medicine Hat who played a role in developing the proposed constitution. Ian Parkinson, one of the Black Hat Gang members, co-wrote the draft constitution titled the “Foundation of Freedom,” which was unveiled in Airdrie and broadcasted online.
Parkinson’s derogatory comment, which targeted individuals of Sikh, Muslim, or Arab descent in relation to cultural or religious headwear, sparked backlash. In response, Mitch Sylvestre, the leader of the Alberta Prosperity Project, announced Parkinson’s immediate resignation from the group, emphasizing that his remarks were not endorsed or tolerated by the organization.
The Black Hat Gang, affiliated with Parkinson, had previously engaged with government officials to present a new draft outlining Albertans’ rights in 2024. It was clarified that Parkinson did not hold a formal position within the Alberta Prosperity Project.
Criticism of Parkinson’s comment extended beyond separatist circles, with Keith Wilson, co-leader of the Let Alberta Decide group, condemning the racist remark for tarnishing the movement’s reputation. The proposed “Foundation of Freedom” constitution, which introduced unconventional governance structures such as an oversight branch and elected judges, faced scrutiny from other separatist factions.
The lack of consensus within the separatist community was evident, with diverging opinions on the proposed constitution. Despite the differing views, Sylvestre emphasized that the draft document was a starting point for broader discussions and would be subject to further refinement through a constitutional conference in the event of a successful separation referendum.
The ongoing discord among separatist groups highlighted the challenges of presenting a unified plan for Alberta’s potential secession from Canada. As the referendum date approaches on October 19, questions persist about the movement’s cohesive strategy for independence.
