A member of the influential Alberta Prosperity Project has stepped down after using a racial slur during an event where a draft constitution for an independent Alberta was presented. The gathering, organized by the group responsible for the “Stay Free Alberta” citizen initiative petition, featured the Black Hat Gang from Medicine Hat, who were acknowledged for their contribution to the plan and presented the document.
Ian Parkinson, one of the members, was introduced as a co-writer of the draft constitution named the “Foundation of Freedom.” During the event in Airdrie, Parkinson made a derogatory statement that received applause from the audience, referring to individuals wearing cultural or religious headdresses.
Following the incident, Mitch Sylvestre, the leader of the Alberta Prosperity Project, announced Parkinson’s immediate resignation from the group and stated that Parkinson would no longer be involved in any of the group’s activities or represent them. The group expressed strong disapproval of Parkinson’s comments, emphasizing that they do not support such remarks.
Parkinson, who is linked to the Black Hat Gang, which operates in the riding of Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, was confirmed not to hold any official position within the Alberta Prosperity Project. Despite attempts to reach Parkinson for comment, there was no response before publication.
In response to the situation, Sylvestre expressed disappointment and clarified that the comments made by Parkinson do not align with the group’s values. The incident drew criticism from various quarters, with Keith Wilson, a co-leader of the Let Alberta Decide group, denouncing Parkinson’s remarks as detrimental to the separatist movement’s image.
The draft constitution proposed by the Alberta Prosperity Project, known as the “Foundation of Freedom,” faced backlash from other separatist groups for its controversial provisions. These included the establishment of a new government branch, abolition of property taxes, term limits for elected officials, and the election of judges in an independent Alberta.
Despite the document not being publicly available online, discussions around it sparked debate and division within the separatist camp. Some leaders distanced themselves from the draft constitution, labeling it as nonsensical and not representative of their shared goals.
The lack of consensus among separatists was highlighted by conflicting opinions on the proposed constitution and the need for a cohesive plan for Alberta’s potential independence. With the referendum approaching, uncertainties persist within the separatist movement, raising questions about the viability of a unified strategy for Alberta’s future.