A member of the renowned pro-separation organization, the Alberta Prosperity Project, has stepped down following his use of a derogatory term at an event where the group unveiled a preliminary constitution for an independent Alberta.
The gathering, organized by the group responsible for the “Stay Free Alberta” citizen initiative petition, showcased the Black Hat Gang, a Medicine Hat-based group acknowledged for their contributions to the plan and the presentation of the document.
Ian Parkinson, a co-writer of the draft constitution named the “Foundation of Freedom,” was introduced during the event in Airdrie, which was also live-streamed online. Parkinson’s controversial statement, which received applause from some attendees, targeted individuals of Sikh, Muslim, or Arab descent in relation to cultural or religious headwear.
Following the incident, Mitch Sylvestre, the head of the Alberta Prosperity Project, announced Parkinson’s immediate resignation from the group. Sylvestre emphasized the organization’s disapproval of the remarks and expressed disappointment that such comments were made at an event they hosted.
Parkinson, associated with the Black Hat Gang, had proposed a new draft document outlining Albertans’ rights during a meeting with government officials in 2024. The Alberta Prosperity Project confirmed that Parkinson was not part of their board or an official member.
Criticism of Parkinson’s statement extended even within the separatist community, with Keith Wilson of the pro-independence group Let Alberta Decide denouncing the remarks as detrimental to the movement’s reputation. Wilson highlighted the challenge of negative associations affecting the entire separatist cause due to the actions of a few individuals.
The draft constitution presented by the Alberta Prosperity Project, known as the “Foundation of Freedom,” faced backlash from other groups within the separatist movement. The document proposed unconventional elements such as a new oversight branch of government, abolishment of property taxes, and the election of judges in an independent Alberta.
Despite the controversy, Sylvestre clarified that the draft constitution was intended to spark dialogue and was not a final document. He emphasized the importance of a comprehensive discussion on the future constitution of Alberta, especially in the event of a successful separation referendum.
The lack of consensus among separatist factions was apparent, with differing opinions on the proposed constitution. Jared Wesley, a political science professor at the University of Alberta, highlighted the ongoing divisions within the independence movement as the provincial election approaches on October 19.
