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- calendar_today October 12, 2026
B.C. NDP Leader Highlights Importance of Provincial Unity
British Columbia NDP Leader David Eby has issued a Thanksgiving message calling on Albertans to support staying in Canada during the looming provincial referendum. Eby’s remarks come just one week before Alberta’s referendum on the province's role in Confederation, scheduled for October 19.
Thanksgiving Message Focuses on Confederation Unity
In a message shared on Sunday via social media, Eby wrote that his party’s candidates are proud of a “Canada that includes Alberta.” He expressed hope that Albertans would vote to remain part of the country, rather than support a second, binding referendum on Alberta separation. Eby emphasized that British Columbia and Alberta share familial, social, and economic ties, stating the provinces are “stronger together.”
Background on the Alberta Referendum Vote
The upcoming referendum in Alberta has refocused attention across Canada on the future of provincial bonds and the possibility of Alberta separation. If Albertans reject separation in the vote, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has said there will not be a second referendum on the matter. The political climate has led leaders from neighboring provinces to weigh in on the topic of Canada unity and the significance of the October 19 vote.
Leaders Mark Thanksgiving Amid Political Campaigns
According to a campaign spokeswoman, Eby spent Sunday visiting a pumpkin patch in Delta, British Columbia, accompanied by his family. The Eby family’s Thanksgiving tradition includes enjoying fish and chips with the children’s grandparents on Monday.
B.C. Conservatives' interim leader, Lorne Doerkson, issued a statement explaining that he spent this Thanksgiving in Vancouver, far from his home in Williams Lake, where his family would typically gather for a large meal. Doerkson marked the holiday with campaign volunteers, following a visit to a food bank earlier in the weekend.
The B.C. Greens did not respond immediately to questions about how party leader Emily Lowan would be spending Thanksgiving. According to her public schedule, Lowan planned to canvass and attend a meet-and-greet event on Monday.
Political Leaders Emphasize Provincial Bonds
Eby’s Thanksgiving message underscores the ongoing importance of provincial bonds and the broader discussion on confederation unity within Canada. With the Alberta referendum approaching, British Columbia’s political leaders are highlighting the interprovincial connections and traditions that reinforce the fabric of Canadian society.
Looking Ahead to the Referendum
As Alberta prepares to vote on October 19, political leaders from neighboring provinces will continue to monitor the results and advocate for unity within Confederation. The outcome may influence future discussions on provincial relations and Canada’s national identity.
Source: cbc.ca.
