A member of the Alberta Prosperity Project, a prominent pro-separation group, has stepped down following his use of a racial slur during an event where the group introduced a preliminary constitution for an independent Alberta. The gathering, organized by the “Stay Free Alberta” citizen initiative petition, featured the Black Hat Gang from Medicine Hat, who were acknowledged for their contributions to the plan and presentation of the document.
Ian Parkinson, a member of the Black Hat Gang, was identified as a co-author of the draft constitution named the “Foundation of Freedom,” which was unveiled in Airdrie and broadcasted online. Parkinson’s offensive comment, which received applause from some attendees, targeted individuals of Sikh, Muslim, or Arab descent in relation to cultural or religious headwear.
On the following day, Mitch Sylvestre, the head of the Alberta Prosperity Project, disclosed that Parkinson had resigned from the group immediately, emphasizing that Parkinson would no longer be involved in the group’s activities or represent them. Sylvestre condemned Parkinson’s remarks, stating they were not endorsed or tolerated by the organization.
Despite Parkinson’s association with the Black Hat Gang, it was clarified that he was not a board member or officer of the Alberta Prosperity Project. The group had previously met with government officials and put forth a new draft document outlining Albertans’ rights in 2024.
The Alberta Prosperity Project’s draft constitution, known as the “Foundation of Freedom,” has faced criticism from various factions within the separatist movement. The document proposes unconventional measures such as establishing a new government branch called the “oversight branch,” eliminating property taxes, implementing term limits for elected officials, and advocating for the election, rather than appointment, of judges in an independent Alberta.
Notably, several prominent separatist leaders, including Keith Wilson, expressed disapproval of Sylvestre’s draft constitution, labeling it as a distracting and nonsensical proposal. They highlighted the lack of consensus within the separatist community, indicating the ongoing divisions and disagreements.
As discussions continue within the separatist movement, the Alberta Prosperity Project emphasized that the preliminary constitution shared was meant to initiate dialogue and would be subject to further refinement through a constitutional conference if a binding referendum on separation were to succeed. The lack of unity and a clear plan within the separatist movement has raised questions about the feasibility and coherence of Alberta’s potential independence.
