Ahead of the upcoming referendum in Alberta, expatriate Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who are eligible to vote are sharing their perspectives on the matter. Lisa Barnett, a former resident of Grand Falls, N.L., now residing in Edmonton, expressed her support for separation, citing concerns about economic disparities, lack of federal voting rights, and immigration issues. Despite facing differing opinions from her family in Newfoundland, Barnett emphasized her stance, stating, “I think enough is enough.”
Statistics Canada reports a significant influx of individuals from Newfoundland and Labrador moving to Alberta over the past decade, primarily for employment opportunities. Barnett, who administrates the “Edmonton Newfies” Facebook group with over 30,000 members, observed varying viewpoints within the community regarding the referendum’s implications.
Conversely, Paula Krawiec, a Newfoundlander residing in Alberta for more than 30 years, actively advocates for maintaining Canadian unity. Expressing her commitment to staying in Canada, Krawiec mentioned her readiness to return to Newfoundland if Alberta were to separate. She participated in advanced polling, standing in line for over two hours to cast her vote against separation.
Krawiec, originally from Stephenville, N.L., engaged in activities supporting the Forever Canadian campaign in Spruce Grove, urging against Alberta’s detachment from Canada. Despite acknowledging grievances, she emphasized the importance of national cohesion, stating, “Canada is worth fighting for, and I won’t stop until this is put to bed.”
The referendum scheduled for Monday will not determine Alberta’s immediate secession but rather seeks public opinion on whether there should be a future binding vote on separation, preserving the possibility of a national division. Regardless of the outcome, Krawiec remains dedicated to promoting unity and defending Canada’s integrity.
