Jason Kenney to debate Alberta separatism in May events

Former Alberta premier Jason Kenney will participate in two public debates this spring on the question of provincial separation, facing off against a Calgary lawyer who supports Alberta leaving Canada.

The first debate is scheduled for May at a member-only conference hosted by Civitas Canada, a conservative non-profit, in Edmonton. Conference materials say both sides share a goal of “economic fairness for Alberta,” with Kenney and lawyer Keith Wilson debating whether staying in or leaving Canada best allows the province to “fulfil their destiny.” A second debate is planned for Calgary later in May.

A petition campaign seeking a provincial referendum on separation is ongoing, with organizers needing nearly 178,000 signatures by May 2 to trigger a vote. Premier Danielle Smith has said that if the petition succeeds, the question would go to Albertans this fall.

Wilson said he believes it is important for voters to hear both perspectives before making a decision.