Duelling Symbols: Alberta and Canada Flags Creating Division Ahead of Referendum
The union says the flag display alienates customers and employees as Alberta separatism and counter-displays spread across the province.
- Alberta Premier Danielle Smith scheduled an October 19 vote on whether the province should remain in Canada as citizens increasingly clash over symbolic flag displays. Prime Minister Mark Carney labeled the potential separation a "dangerous bluff."
- Flags have become the "ultimate icon of our tribalism," says Ted Kaye of the North American Vexillological Association. The Alberta flag, created in 1967, evolved into a unifying symbol for separatist movements.
- The United Food and Commercial Workers union filed a grievance against Sobeys Inc. for displaying the Alberta flag, saying it alienates federalist customers and employees. Organizers in Sundre cancelled a rodeo parade last month over disputed flag-bearing floats.
- In Airdrie, 49-year-old music teacher Batchelor is distributing pamphlets to neighbors to remind them the Alberta flag originally honored Canada. She installed a Canadian Maple Leaf in her garden, creating solidarity with like-minded residents.
- Government spokesperson Sam Blackett stated the provincial flag "belongs to every Albertan," emphasizing it represents natural landscapes and agricultural wealth. Groups for and against separation continue campaigning across Alberta as October 19 approaches.
42 Articles
42 Articles
Alberta Voices-Readers' comments on separation
From now until the Oct. 19 referendum in Alberta, the Edmonton Journal and Calgary Herald are publishing your thoughts about the upcoming vote and issues related to separation. Here are some of the latest emails we’ve received.
Albertans are scheduled to vote in October on a referendum on the province's independence.
Alberta and Canada flags creating division ahead of referendum
Sarah Batchelor says it started a few weeks ago when a large blue flag bearing Alberta's shield of arms appeared on her neighbour's window in Airdrie, a city north of Calgary. The 49-year-old music teacher, who has lived in the province for most of her life, says she would not have been bothered if ...
The flags of Canada and Alberta have become a symbol of growing tensions between federalists and independents as the referendum is approaching in October.
Winnipeg Free Press
Duelling symbols: Alberta and Canada flags creating division ahead of referendum
EDMONTON
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 61% of the sources lean Left
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
