Organizers with the Alberta Forever Canada campaign were in Rimbey by Town Hall to gather signatures of support on Sept. 2.

“We have so many permanent spots in Red Deer, Lacombe, and Ponoka, and this is our first day here in Rimbey,” said Ayaz Bangash, lead organizer of the Alberta Forever Canada for Central Alberta.

He said promptly after setting up, there was already a line-up of folks waiting to sign the petition.

“That was pretty exciting,” said Bangash, who was a Liberal candidate for Red Deer in last spring’s election.

He noted that plans are already taking shape for a return visit with the peition. He’s also hoping to set up a local team of organizers in Rimbey as well.

“Alberta within a united Canada – that is the main purpose. That is our message,” he said  “It’s not just (about) a petition. It’s a strong message as well

“As a proud Albertan and Canadian, I’m honoured to be leading the Alberta Forever Canada campaign in Central Alberta, a non-partisan initiative supported by individuals from all walks of life and across the political spectrum,” he said, adding the initiative’s lead proponent is Thomas Lukaszuk.

According to the Forever Canadian website, “Talk of separation, even as a negotiating tactic or as a step toward joining the United States, creates damaging uncertainty. It chills investment, drives away talent, and deepens social divisions at home. The longer the question lingers, the higher the economic and community cost for Alberta, and for Canada.

“This citizen‑initiated petition is how Albertans give a clear, democratic answer: that we remain in Canada. A strong result reduces uncertainty, restores stability, and lets us focus on practical solutions that move Alberta forward.”

The campaign aims to gather 300,000 signatures in 90 days – it was launched in July, and will wrap up on Oct. 28.

“This event is a key milestone in our campaign, and represents a growing grassroots movement of unity and civic engagement,” said Bangash.

Meanwhile, the petition can’t be signed online – there are also some 280 locations accepting in‑person signatures.

“Whenever I see people show their love, commitment and dedication to their own land, that really boosts my energy!”

For more information, or to find a location to close-by to sign the petition, visit www.forever-canadian.ca.


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