Country music star Paul Brandt was removed from a speaking list for a teachers’ convention in Edmonton, and the Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA) refuses to say why. The ATA initially said Brandt was not part of programming this year. It later revised its statement, saying he “was originally scheduled to speak but was not included in the final schedule.” “We are unable to comment further,” the ATA said. Brandt, in a statement, says he speaks with “audiences large and small” about human trafficking through his course “Not in My City.” “While I was withdrawn from sharing this message with a particular group last week, I look forward to continuing to build the strong momentum we have created from coast to coast to disrupt sexual exploitation,” he said. The premier says she’s “immensely disappointed” and that standing up for the victims of sex trafficking is “most certainly a non-partisan cause.” “Not only is Paul Brandt one of Canada’s greatest musicians, but his organization ‘Not in My City’ has been leading the fight against sex trafficking for years—especially when it comes to endangering our children,” Danielle Smith said in a statement. Smith went on to say, “While the ATA searches for some sort of explanation as to why they cancelled his recent appearance to engage with teachers, I’d encourage all Albertans to learn more about the important work that Paul does by visiting his website: http://notinmycity.ca.” Brandt faced online criticism recently after he would not clarify his stance on Alberta independence.
