Alberta Rising: Embracing a Bold Path to Independence

Alberta stands on the cusp of a prosperous future—indeed, it seems we’ve always been on the brink of something great, just waiting to be seized. Over the past 50 years, it has become increasingly clear that Alberta’s position within the Canadian Confederation has never been equal. What was once considered a fringe or even irrational notion is now at the forefront of mainstream discourse, as recent events force these conversations into the public eye.

At a time when Canada is embroiled in a federal election, my enthusiasm—as an Albertan—for participating in national politics is notably low. This isn’t a rejection of democracy itself, but rather an acknowledgment that Alberta’s voice—and, more broadly, the voice of the West—has been consistently marginalized in federal decision-making. Meanwhile, policies and legislation emerging from Ottawa continue to impact our province in significant and often detrimental ways.

This dynamic isn’t new. I recall an interview from 1981, where Webster spoke with Bill McClelland, the then British Columbia Minister of Energy and Natural Resources. Even then, the issue of federal interference in provincial jurisdiction—particularly concerning our energy industries—was a burning topic. Since that time, Alberta has repeatedly borne the brunt of federal policies designed far from our interests. The National Energy Program, conceived under Pierre Elliott Trudeau’s regime with Allan MacEachen as Minister of Finance, plunged Alberta into one of its worst recessions. Although it took decades to recover, Alberta’s resilience eventually shone through.

The early 2000s brought further challenges, with federal interventions manifesting in the form of policies like the “No More Pipelines” legislation, LC69, and the Impact Assessment Act. On top of that, we have been saddled with an ineffective and overly broad carbon tax, along with restrictions that prevent transport tankers from moving our resources to the global market. Notably, the so-called emissions cap is, in effect, a production cap—another policy that has hindered our economic potential.

Yet, while we often focus on the challenges and problems we face, it’s time to shift our gaze toward solutions. Both I and the dedicated team at the Alberta Prosperity Project believe that overcoming the emotional barriers surrounding Alberta’s place within Confederation is key. To foster rational, logical debate on Alberta independence, we must paint a vivid picture of what an independent Alberta could truly look like.

Take, for instance, a tangible step I’m taking as both a business owner and a believer in Alberta’s potential. As the proprietor of a local restaurant and fuel station—the Whistle Stop Cafe—I am offering a glimpse into what independence might mean for everyday life. On April 1st, while supplies last, I will be selling regular gasoline at 80 cents per litre. This price reflects a hypothetical future with no carbon tax, excise tax, GST, or even provincial fuel tax—a price that highlights the economic freedom an independent Alberta could offer. While this offer is available to everyone, a portion of my inventory will be reserved for members of the Alberta Prosperity Project, a group that has long worked to bring this conversation to the forefront and advocate for a referendum on our province’s future within Confederation.

Imagine if Canada were to propose a renewed relationship under the current, burdensome terms—nobody in their right mind would agree. That’s why initiatives like this matter. They allow Albertans to experience, even if symbolically, the benefits of a self-reliant economy. So I invite you to visit the Whistle Stop Cafe, fill up your car (with a cap of 150 litres per person to ensure fairness), and consider what our collective future could be. Whether you choose to join as a member of the Alberta Prosperity Project or simply learn more about our vision, your participation is a step toward reclaiming our rightful autonomy.

Alberta’s story is one of perseverance against persistent odds. As we stand at this crossroads with significant choices ahead, it is clear that our future prosperity depends on embracing practical solutions and reshaping policies that have long stifled our growth. With determination and unity, Alberta can emerge as one of the most prosperous and free places in the world—a place to work, raise a family, and truly live.

See you at the fuel pumps.

-Chris