'We're Canadians': Some Albertans divided about separation in cross-province checkup
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'Suggestions that the number of people wanting to separate is growing worries me,' said Sokvitne, standing on her driveway.
Sokvitne said statements by Premier Danielle Smith, as well as her government's introduction of a bill making it easier for citizens to trigger referendums, enable separatists. Smith has said those wanting to separate are frustrated with Ottawa and 'are not fringe voices.'
'She is manipulating the people of this province into believing that we should seriously look at separating,' Sokvitne said. 'It is just ludicrous. Not all of us think like that. I absolutely disagree.'
After speaking to a number of residents across Alberta _ from High River in the south to Edmonton in the north — opinions on separatism are just as diverse as the province itself.
Some Albertans are frustrated with Ottawa, and a small margin wants to secede. Others argue that separation would be reckless.
Just a few blocks away from Sokvitne's home, musician Richard Engler sips coffee with his friends outside a local diner, as he said he agreed with Smith.
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