Preston Manning to co-chair virtual assembly ahead of Alberta referendum

Preston Manning, former leader of the Reform Party, and former B.C. Premier Gordon Campbell will co-chair a two-day virtual assembly titled ‘Alberta and the West’ on September 19 and 20. The event is designed as an educational forum to address grievances in Western Canada regarding the functioning of Canadian federalism and to examine various options for the region.

The assembly precedes Alberta’s referendum on October 19, where Premier Danielle Smith will present 10 questions to voters. One of these questions will ask Albertans whether they wish to remain in Canada or hold a second, binding referendum regarding secession from the country. Organizers stated the sessions aim to provide informed presentations on the implications of remaining in Canada and other potential alternatives to the current status quo.