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Separatists to hold independence rally in lead-up to Alberta’s birthday bash
Jeffrey Rath will urge supporters to back an independence vote as petitioners, third-party advertisers and opponents mobilize around the referendum.
Today, separatist leader Jeffrey Rath speaks at an Edmonton rally organized by the Alberta Prosperity Project, calling it a "gathering for a province in peril" ahead of Alberta's 121st birthday festivities.
Rath criticized Premier Danielle Smith on Friday, accusing her of "grovelling to Carney" and claiming she has betrayed United Conservative Party members and misled Albertans on sovereignty.
Smith has called a vote for October 19 but recently walked back suggestions of a binding referendum next spring, citing legislation that prohibits such votes within one year of a general election.
Earlier this week, pro-federalist Thomas Lukaszuk urged Smith to defer the vote, citing the trade war launched by President Donald Trump and representing more than 400,000 Albertans who signed his petition.
Music, barbecues, and beer gardens are planned for Sunday in advance of Alberta Day on Tuesday, while Opposition NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi organizes a "Vote for Canada" rally in Calgary.