Key facts
- Alberta residents will vote in a non-binding referendum in October on whether to begin the process of splitting from Canada.
- The Calgary Stampede is proceeding amidst separatist pressures in Alberta.
- Support for Alberta independence has seen a decline in recent polling.
- Prime Minister Mark Carney is actively addressing national unity concerns and will attend the Calgary Stampede.
- Concerns exist that the referendum could impact upcoming trade agreement negotiations.
Canada Day celebrations are being observed amidst growing separatist sentiments in Alberta and Quebec, posing a challenge to national unity. In Alberta, the upcoming October 19 non-binding referendum on whether to initiate the process of leaving Canada casts a shadow over events like the Calgary Stampede.