For Sheila Inocancio, Canada Day marked more than a national celebration. It was the culmination of a 16-year journey. After immigrating from the Philippines, Inocancio officially became a Canadian citizen Wednesday, surrounded by family as communities across Calgary celebrated the country’s birthday. “My family have a good life here,” she said. “We are so proud that we are together here. I’m so happy and very proud that I’m finally Canadian.” While thousands gathered for Canada Day festivities, the celebration also served as a reminder that Alberta voters could be heading to the polls in just over three months for a referendum on provincial separation. Thomas Lukaszuk, founder of the Forever Canadian campaign, officially opened the group’s campaign office, distributing signs and buttons to supporters. “Canada Day for Forever Canadian is like Christmas,” Lukaszuk said. “Today is a big day.” Lukaszuk said Albertans can be proud of both their province and their country, arguing that recent discussions around separation have created a negative perception of Alberta. “We need to make sure that we embrace the Alberta flag as much as we embrace the Canadian flag,” he said. “The only way we can do it is by talking and being open to conversations.” Alberta NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi also urged Canadians opposed to separation to make their voices heard at the ballot box. “Every single one of them will vote,” Nenshi said of separation supporters. “So even if they are small in number, they will be big in voting numbers. That means the rest of us proud Canadians all need to vote in even bigger numbers.” Those advocating for separation say the issue will be decided by the voters. “There’s real harm occurring here from Ottawa’s policies,” said Keith Wilson with Let Alberta Decide. “Many Albertans are becoming increasingly concerned about the direction of Canada, and there is an alternative.” Premier Danielle Smith also spent part of Canada Day in Calgary, briefly addressing a crowd at Spruce Meadows, where she reiterated her message of supporting both a strong Alberta and a strong Canada. For Inocancio, however, politics took a back seat. After years of waiting, she said becoming a Canadian citizen was the only celebration that mattered.
