Imagine a Progressive Future — A Community Dialogue

Join us in St. Albert on April 2 with Dr. Kristopher Wells, Dr. Victoria Bucholtz, and Janis Irwin.

Hosted by Give Voice AB.
Details and registration coming soon.

#GiveVoiceAB #ABpoli

Standing With Our Community When rights, safety, and dignity are under threat A conversation with Janis and Marie about supporting 2SLGBTQ+ and persons with disabilities in Alberta Speakers: Janis Irwin: MLA Edmonton-Highlands-Norwood Marie Renaud: MLA St. Albert Location: St. Albert Inn & Suites (Heritage Room) 156 St. Albert Trail, St. Albert Date and Time: Date: February 17, 2026 Doors Open: 6:30 PM Event: 7:00–8:30 PM Additional Details: FREE EVENT – Everyone is welcome Limited seating - registration required Includes a QR code to register on Eventbrite This conversation focuses on: Being a more informed ally Dispelling common myths Speaking up in everyday conversations Hosted by: Give Voice

When one member of our community is affected, we are all affected. Join MLAs Janis Irwin & Marie Renaud for a vital talk on allyship for the 2SLGBTQ+ & disability communities. Let’s move beyond intentions into action. #GiveVoiceAB #ABpoli

standing-with-our-community.eventbrite.ca

Mark your calendars: Feb 17th. 🗓️

The Give Voice speakers are confirmed and the posters are in the final polish phase. Full details dropping in a few days. You won’t want to miss this one!

#GiveVoiceAB

Following the incredible response to our Accidental Advocate session, we aren't slowing down! 🚀

We’re already planning our next Give Voice event on becoming a better ally. We're currently scouting speakers and refining the topic. Stay tuned! 🦋 #Allyship #GiveVoiceAB #AccidentalAdvocate

Coffee meetup today! ☕ We talked about all the good trouble we've done and proved a small group can accomplish some cool stuff. Time to rest up & get ready for more in the new year. 🗣️ #GiveVoiceAB #ABpoli 1/3

Infographic with cream background and muted brick-red header bar labeled “5. Silencing Independent Voices: Attacks on Institutions,” showing a microphone-with-slash icon. Six bordered boxes describe suppression of dissent: Unions cast as enemies – undermining collective bargaining; Public service politicized – loyalty prioritized over competence; Academic funding veto (Bill 18) – cabinet can block university research grants; DEI rollback via Mintz Report – ignoring diversity and inclusion expertise; Press access steered to friendlies – restricting media access to allies; and Core Violation – “Independent bodies are being replaced by political loyalty to silence all dissent.”

Infographic titled “6. Favouritism and Self-Interest: Rewarding Insiders,” with a brown header bar and white briefcase icon containing a dollar sign. Six gold-bordered boxes outline insider benefits and corruption: “Skybox” donor-insider perks – exclusive access for major donors; Health contracts to party allies – contracts awarded by loyalty; Ethics oversight weakened – reduced accountability standards; Loyalists over expertise – appointments based on political alignment; Sole-source deals & weak audits – non-competitive contracts risking waste; and Core Violation – “Accountability is gone; patronage has replaced professional integrity.”

NEW SERIES: POWER OVER PRINCIPLE. Are democratic guardrails collapsing in Alberta? We break down 6 categories of UCP actions—from undermining the Rule of Law to silencing independent voices. Part 5-6 #ABpoli #Alberta #UCP #GiveVoiceAB #ABleg #PowerOverPrinciple

Infographic titled “Power Over Principle: UCP Actions That Betray Core Conservative Values of Limited Government and Local Control.” The section header reads “1. Rule of Law,” in a navy-blue bar with a gold balance-scale icon. Six beige boxes with gold borders describe political actions undermining rule of law. Topics include: Notwithstanding Clause (teachers strike) – blocking court review of labor law for five years; Sovereignty Act – instructing provincial bodies to disregard federal laws; Citizenship Markers on IDs – mandatory marking of citizenship on government IDs; Two-track Rules for Cities – unequal laws for major cities; Pawlowski Interference – premier influence on a criminal case; and The Core Violation – text in a navy box reading, “No one is above the law, yet political power bypassed the courts.” Colors: navy blue, gold, cream background. Style: formal, educational, rectangular grid layout.

Infographic with the same title format and cream background. The section header bar is deep navy-blue with a gold courthouse icon, labeled “2. Checks and Balances.” Six beige boxes with gold borders highlight failures of oversight. Top row: Closure votes normalized – legislation rushed without debate; Watchdogs de-funded, muzzled – attorney general denies funding and replaces an investigator mid-scandal. Middle row: Bill 20 lets cabinet quash bylaws – cabinet can cancel local laws; Election Commissioner dissolved – independent watchdog removed. Bottom row: Bill 18 centralizes federal deals – cabinet controls federal funding; Ethics Commissioner not renewed – official replaced after ruling against premier.

Infographic with a cream background and dark red header bar, labeled “3. Electoral Integrity,” with a white ballot-box icon. Six bordered boxes explain actions undermining fair elections: Recall/referenda defunded – Elections Alberta denied funding for citizen reforms; Elections Alberta pressure-tested – CEO’s budget cut after funding request; Draconian voter-ID rules – harder voting for marginalized groups; Ban on vote tabulators – removal of modern equipment increasing error; Ended vote-anywhere polling – elimination of special ballots limiting participation; and Corporate & union donations return – reintroducing big-money influence.

Infographic titled as part of the same series. The green header bar reads “4. No Seat at the Table: Excluding Experts and the Community,” with a white chair icon. Six beige boxes with gray-blue headers describe exclusionary governance: Teachers’ contract imposed – forced without negotiation; U.S. book-ban lists imported – foreign criteria used for book removals; Experts excluded on trans policy – major policy without professional input; Municipalities micromanaged – provincial overreach; No real consultation on Bill 20 – local voices ignored; and Police bypassed on photo radar – decisions made against police advice

NEW SERIES: POWER OVER PRINCIPLE. Are democratic guardrails collapsing in Alberta? We break down 6 categories of UCP actions—from undermining the Rule of Law to silencing independent voices. #ABpoli #Alberta #UCP #GiveVoiceAB #ABleg #PowerOverPrinciple

started just making memes on Bluesky. Then in May, I went to a protest at the Leg. I began listening to historian Ruth Ben-Ghiat and paying attention to what’s working in the U.S. She suggested building community—so on May 20th, I launched Give Voice. Like-minded friends joined me. They cared deeply about our future and wanted to make a difference. Last Thursday, we protested at the Alberta Next Town Hall. By Saturday, we were on the front page of the Edmonton Sun and on the local news. Even we didn’t realize the influence that community could create. And here’s the truth: the heroes we’ve been waiting for aren’t out there. It’s us. Every time we notch it up one step — protest, rally, speak out, build community — we uncover our own power. That’s how change happens. The enemy is inaction. The government needs to hear our voices — at rallies, in protests, in community. Staying quiet is not an option.’ The last three lines are emphasized, with ‘The enemy is inaction.’ in bold red text and ‘The government needs to hear our voices —’ in bold black text.

Edmonton Sun Cover

We are often humbled by the great advocates who’ve been doing this longer, in different ways. They remind us that there’s no single path—find your way, your voice, your step forward. That’s how change is made. #Ableg #ABpoli #YouAreTheHeroYouHaveBeenLookingFor #GiveVoiceAB

Infographic titled “Manufacturing Consent: 10 Propaganda Techniques of ‘Alberta Next’ – Fear Appeal: The ‘Doom Scenario’ – Part 9 in a 10-part series exposing Alberta Government Propaganda.” On the left, a LEGO figurine in a suit sits behind a desk, with a lamp and clock in the background. Four sections of text: What is Fear Appeal? (yellow box) – “It’s when they use terrifying predictions and worst-case scenarios to push you toward their specific solution. The message is simple: you must act now, or face inevitable disaster. It turns complex policy discussions into a wave of panic, overriding rational thought.” How Does It Work? (blue box) – “They spotlight worst-case outcomes and use vague, alarming language to stir fear. This urgency shuts down critical thought. It’s like a salesperson saying, ‘This deal ends today—if you wait, you’ll lose everything,’ pressuring you to act fast without thinking it through.” What’s the Alberta Next Example? (yellow box) – “The APP video warns Alberta must act to escape Canada’s ‘economic and demographic decline.’ It claims we lose $3 billion yearly to Ottawa and frames the $140 billion payout like a limited-time offer. The message is clear: act now—or stay trapped in a system run by outsiders.” Why Does It Matter? (green box) – “Fear narrows public thinking, causing people to override facts and ignore evidence. It rushes decisions, silences alternative solutions, and blocks balanced assessments of risk. This tactic isn’t about genuine persuasion or informed choice—it’s coercion disguised as urgency. And if they succeed, everyone’s CPP could be affected.” At the bottom is a Warning box (red with yellow warning triangle) – “This is a deliberate and dishonest tactic. It aims to distort truth, manipulate your understanding, and undermine the very foundations of democracy by simulating genuine participation. Stay critical, stay informed.” Sources listed: Alberta Next (2025), Wesley (2025), Tyee (July 2025).

Infographic titled “Manufacturing Consent: 10 Propaganda Techniques of ‘Alberta Next’ – Covert Situational Manipulation: The ‘Rigged Game’ – Part 10 in a 10-part series exposing Alberta Government Propaganda.” On the left, a LEGO figurine in a suit sits behind a desk, with a lamp and clock in the background. Four sections of text: What is Covert Situational Manipulation? (yellow box, chess pieces icon) – “It’s when they subtly engineer the rules or environment of public engagement so the outcome is pre-set. The game is rigged from the start—often without you realizing how the pieces are moved.” How Does It Work? (blue box) – “They steer your choices by manipulating context, procedures, or information flow—without giving explicit directions. Think hidden defaults or unseen filters. It’s like a maze where the walls quietly guide you to their preferred exit, even while you believe you’re choosing freely.” What’s the Alberta Next Example? (yellow box) – “The APP survey forced you to watch a promotional video before submitting feedback. To attend a town hall, you needed government ID and email access. These gatekeeping steps filtered who could participate—ensuring curated ‘public input’ aligned with the government’s agenda.” Why Does It Matter? (green box) – “This tactic hides control behind neutral processes, making it hard to detect. It filters participation and rigs the outcome. Consent isn’t earned—it’s engineered. When every answer implies agreement, your voice isn’t heard—it’s repackaged. Spotting these hidden controls is the first step to demanding real transparency and a fairer process.” At the bottom is a Warning box (red with yellow warning triangle) – “This is a deliberate and dishonest tactic. It aims to distort truth, manipulate your understanding, and undermine the very foundations of democracy by simulating genuine participation. Stay critical, stay informed.” Sources listed: Alberta Next (2025), Climenhaga (2025).

Re-upping our “Manufacturing Consent” series ahead of the Aug 14 Alberta Next Town Hall in Edmonton. Parts 9–10 cover the Doom Scenario & the Rigged Game. Learn to spot fear-based pressure & hidden process manipulation. #ABpoli #AlbertaNext #ABleg #GiveVoiceAB

“Manufacturing Consent: 10 Propaganda Techniques of ‘Alberta Next’ – Authority Bias & Symbolic Legitimation: The ‘Expert Stamp of Approval’ – Part 5 in a 10-part series exposing Alberta Government Propaganda.” Four sections of text: What is Authority Bias? (yellow box) – “It’s when they use smart, trusted people to make their biased plan look neutral and credible. The expert might not endorse the full message—but their name gives it weight. It looks like balanced consultation. But it’s really borrowed legitimacy.” How Does It Work? (blue box) – “They put respected figures on a panel to lend trust and prestige. Their presence suggests approval even if they disagree or are sidelined. It’s like putting a well-known doctor on a cereal box. You’re more likely to believe the product is good, even if it’s just sugar.” What’s the Alberta Next Example? (yellow box) – “Professor Trevor Tombe appeared on the Alberta Next panel. As The Tyee reported, the survey was ‘nothing but a “push poll” designed to give Smith the answers she wants.’ Tombe said: ‘I had nothing to do with the government’s survey questions. Those questions are not neutral…’ His presence still gave the campaign an air of credibility.” Why Does It Matter? (green box) – “It manipulates public trust. When familiar experts appear on stage, people may assume the process is fair. But when their actual views are ignored or misrepresented, the trust is misplaced. This tactic hides bias behind borrowed authority—and makes manipulation harder to detect.” At the bottom is a Warning box (red with yellow warning triangle) – “This is a deliberate and dishonest tactic. It aims to distort truth, manipulate your understanding, and undermine the very foundations of democracy by simulating genuine participation. Stay critical, stay informed.” Sources listed: Alberta Next (2025), Graham Thomson in The Tyee (Jul 3, 2025), Wesley (2022).

Infographic titled “Manufacturing Consent: 10 Propaganda Techniques of ‘Alberta Next’ – Repetition (Ad Nauseam): The ‘Broken Record’ – Part 6 in a 10-part series exposing Alberta Government Propaganda.” On the left, a LEGO figurine in a suit sits behind a desk, with a lamp and clock in the background. Four sections of text: What is Repetition? (yellow box, vinyl record icon) – “It’s when they repeat the same message over and over again—until it starts to sound normal. Even if it’s unpopular, the constant repetition makes it feel familiar and inevitable. It wears you down.” How Does It Work? (blue box) – “They repeat a word—like ‘freedom’—so often, in so many contexts, that it starts to feel familiar, even comforting. You stop asking what it means. You just react the way they want. That’s the trick: repetition doesn’t explain. It conditions.” What’s the Alberta Next Example? (yellow box) – “The APP pitch has been spinning since 2001—from the Firewall Letter to the Free Alberta Strategy. The line never changes: ‘Alberta could save billions.’ Smith once said no one was taking pensions. Then she promoted it. Then it was off the table. Now it’s back again. Say it. Deny it. Revive it—under Alberta Next. Rinse. Repeat.” Why Does It Matter? (green box) – “Repetition wears you down. It makes bad ideas sound normal—then acceptable, then inevitable. You don’t agree because it’s right—just because you’ve heard it enough. Toddlers have mastered this technique. The Alberta government is counting on you being too tired to fight it. And if it works, everyone’s CPP is at risk.” At the bottom is a Warning box (red with yellow warning triangle) – “This is a deliberate and dishonest tactic. It aims to distort truth, manipulate your understanding, and undermine the very foundations of democracy by simulating genuine participation. Stay critical, stay informed.” Sources listed: Alberta Next (2025), Firewall Letter (2001), Free Alberta Strategy (2021), Wesley (2022).

Infographic titled “Manufacturing Consent: 10 Propaganda Techniques of ‘Alberta Next’ – Glittering Generalities: The ‘Feel-Good Slogan’ – Part 7 in a 10-part series exposing Alberta Government Propaganda.” On the left, a LEGO figurine in a suit sits behind a desk, with a lamp and clock in the background. Four sections of text: What is Glittering Generality? (yellow box, heart-in-speech-bubble icon) – “It’s a big, inspiring phrase that sounds great but says very little. They use it to win your approval—without telling you what they’ll actually do. It’s emotional bait.” How Does It Work? (blue box) – “These phrases hijack your emotions and lower your guard. They sound familiar—borrowed from values you already trust. They feel calming, even comforting. Because they’re so broad, they’re hard to pin down. You stop asking what they mean. That’s the point.” What’s the Alberta Next Example? (yellow box) – “‘Your Voice Matters!’ was repeated across Alberta Next surveys, videos, and town halls. It’s a phrase rooted in advocacy—meant to empower real people. Here, it was repurposed to promote a narrow agenda and silence dissent. It created the illusion of participation, twisting a message of empowerment into a tool for control.” Why Does It Matter? (green box) – “It creates just enough doubt to make you think your voice mattered. You see the words and start to believe them. But it’s misdirection—emotional cover for predetermined decisions. It gives the illusion you’re being consulted, but only the future will reveal you had no voice at all.” At the bottom is a Warning box (red with yellow warning triangle) – “This is a deliberate and dishonest tactic. It aims to distort truth, manipulate your understanding, and undermine the very foundations of democracy by simulating genuine participation. Stay critical, stay informed.” Sources listed: Alberta Next (2025), Wesley (2022), Parkland Institute (2023).

Infographic titled “Manufacturing Consent: 10 Propaganda Techniques of ‘Alberta Next’ – Simulated Participation: The ‘Illusion of Choice’ – Part 8 in a 10-part series exposing Alberta Government Propaganda.” On the left, a LEGO figurine in a suit sits behind a desk, with a lamp and clock in the background. Four sections of text: What is Simulated Participation? (yellow box, three-person silhouette icon) – “It’s when they pretend to ask for your input—but the real decisions are already made. It gives the illusion of democracy, not the reality.” How Does It Work? (blue box) – “They set up public events like surveys and town halls after major decisions are already made. The agenda is controlled, and real debate is avoided. You’re invited to attend and speak, but the process isn’t designed for your input to truly shape the outcome.” What’s the Alberta Next Example? (yellow box) – “The APP online survey required watching a propaganda video first, then submitting your email. For town halls, you need government ID and email to get tickets. This process is designed to be intimidating, filtering who participates and ensuring a curated ‘public input’ that supports their agenda.” Why Does It Matter? (green box) – “It destroys trust in the democratic process. People believe they’ve been heard—but their input is filtered, ignored, or repackaged. Taxpayer dollars are used against them for results they don’t want. It’s not engagement—it’s optics. Citizens become disillusioned and participate less because they feel it makes no difference.” At the bottom is a Warning box (red with yellow warning triangle) – “This is a deliberate and dishonest tactic. It aims to distort truth, manipulate your understanding, and undermine the very foundations of democracy by simulating genuine participation. Stay critical, stay informed.” Sources listed: Alberta Next (2025), Wesley (2022), Parkland Institute (2023).

Re-upping our “Manufacturing Consent” series ahead of the Aug 14 Alberta Next Town Hall in Edmonton. Parts 5–8 of “Manufacturing Consent.” Learn to spot Authority Bias, the Broken Record, Feel-Good Slogans & the Illusion of Choice. #ABpoli #AlbertaNext #ABleg #GiveVoiceAB

Infographic titled “Manufacturing Consent: 10 Propaganda Techniques of ‘Alberta Next’ – Push Polling: The ‘Rigged Survey’ – Part 1 in a 10-part series exposing Alberta Government Propaganda.” On the left, a LEGO figurine in a suit sits behind a desk, with a lamp and clock in the background. Four sections of text: What is a Push Poll? (yellow box, clipboard icon) – “It pretends to ask for your opinion, but only offers answers they want. The questions are loaded, and there’s no real way to say no. It’s not feedback—it’s a setup.” How Does It Work? (blue box) – “They ask loaded questions with limited answers—and no option to skip. It’s like being asked, ‘How do you like your tea—black or with sugar?’ Except you don’t like tea, and you still have to pick one. That’s not choice—it’s control.” What’s the Alberta Next Example? (yellow box) – “After showing a pro-APP video, they asked: ‘What potential benefit do you like most about Alberta opting to leave the CPP?’ No neutral option. No space to disagree. No way to skip. Just pick your favourite selling point.” Why Does It Matter? (green box) – “Because the government will weaponize your answers—using falsely gathered information as truth. They’ll point to it to justify leaving the CPP, even though it doesn’t reflect what people actually want.” At the bottom is a Warning box (red with yellow warning triangle) – “This is a deliberate and dishonest tactic. It aims to distort truth, manipulate your understanding, and undermine the very foundations of democracy by simulating genuine participation. Stay critical, stay informed.” Sources listed: Alberta Next AB Gov (Jun 2025); The Tyee (Jul 2025); Wesley (U of A, 2025).

Infographic titled “Manufacturing Consent: 10 Propaganda Techniques of ‘Alberta Next’ – Narrative Framing: The ‘Either-Or Trap’ – Part 2 in a 10-part series exposing Alberta Government Propaganda.” On the left, a LEGO figurine in a suit sits behind a desk, with a lamp and clock in the background. Four sections of text: What is Narrative Framing / Either-Or? (yellow box) – “It’s when they tell you there are only two choices—one that sounds good, and one that sounds bad—so you’ll pick the one they want. But the truth is, there are more than two options. They just don’t want you to see them.” How Does It Work? (blue box) – “It simplifies a complex issue into two opposing sides, making one seem desirable and the other undesirable, to force a biased decision. It’s like asking: ‘Do you want cake, or do you want to be punched in the face?’” What’s the Alberta Next Example? (yellow box) – “The APP video presents a false choice: ✅ An Alberta plan ‘exclusively focused on maximizing returns’ or ❌ A CPP with ‘emissions reductions and DEI concerns’ that ‘do not always result in the highest rate of returns.’ It ignores real alternatives—like CPP reform, shared management, or conditional withdrawal.” Why Does It Matter? (green box) – “It shuts down critical thinking by hiding real alternatives. It pressures people to accept a single, pre-approved solution—as if it’s the only logical choice. When decisions are based on false framing, any referendum result is built on misinformation, not informed consent.” At the bottom is a Warning box (red with yellow warning triangle) – “This is a deliberate and dishonest tactic. It aims to distort truth, manipulate your understanding, and undermine the very foundations of democracy by simulating genuine participation. Stay critical, stay informed.” Sources listed: Wesley (2022), Alberta Next (2025), Parkland Institute (2023), AIMCo (2023).

Infographic titled “Manufacturing Consent: 10 Propaganda Techniques of ‘Alberta Next’ – Narrative Framing: The ‘Us vs. Them’ Story – Part 3 in a 10-part series exposing Alberta Government Propaganda.” On the left, a LEGO figurine in a suit sits behind a desk, with a lamp and clock in the background. Four sections of text: What is Narrative Framing / Us vs. Them? (yellow box, comedy/tragedy mask icon) – “It’s when they tell a story where we are the good guys and they are the problem. It gets you to take sides, pick a team, and stop asking hard questions.” How Does It Work? (blue box) – “They paint everything as a rivalry: Alberta vs. Ottawa, us vs. them. It’s like hockey—they hype the other team as the enemy, not just an opponent. Once you’re caught in the rivalry, it’s not about policy anymore—it’s about payback.” What’s the Alberta Next Example? (yellow box) – “The APP video sets up a familiar story: Alberta is framed as young, productive, and overpaying—while CPP is described as bloated and run by people in Ottawa and Toronto. They say CPP decisions don’t reflect Alberta’s interests and imply we’d be better off alone. It’s a setup Albertans know all too well.” Why Does It Matter? (green box) – “It shuts down critical thinking and turns complex issues into loyalty tests. When every message is ‘fight Ottawa,’ real questions get lost—and real solutions too. It trains people to see anything from Ottawa as suspicious, or not worth hearing at all. This kind of framing builds resentment, not understanding.” At the bottom is a Warning box (red with yellow warning triangle) – “This is a deliberate and dishonest tactic. It aims to distort truth, manipulate your understanding, and undermine the very foundations of democracy by simulating genuine participation. Stay critical, stay informed.” Sources listed: Wesley (2022), Alberta Next (2025), Parkland Institute (2023).

Infographic titled “Manufacturing Consent: 10 Propaganda Techniques of ‘Alberta Next’ – Strategic Omission: The ‘Hidden Half’ – Part 4 in a 10-part series exposing Alberta Government Propaganda.” On the left, a LEGO figurine in a suit sits behind a desk, with a lamp and clock in the background. Four sections of text: What is Strategic Omission? (yellow box, puzzle piece icon) – “It’s when they only tell you part of the story—leaving out the inconvenient facts that might change your mind. The message sounds reasonable, because the bad parts are missing. You’re not hearing the whole thing. Just the half they want you to see.” How Does It Work? (blue box) – “They present a partial picture, leaving out crucial context or inventing numbers to make their case sound solid. It’s like showing only the sunny side of a house, hiding the crumbling foundation.” What’s the Alberta Next Example? (yellow box) – “The APP video lists the potential ‘benefits’ of an Alberta pension plan — big payout, local control, higher returns. But the downsides? They’re rushed, vague, and framed as federal interference. No deep dive on legal uncertainty, benefit risk, or portability gaps. It’s not balanced information — it’s marketing.” Why Does It Matter? (green box) – “It blocks critical thinking by hiding the full picture. People are nudged to support without understanding risks, often trusting government sources not to mislead. It’s not an informed choice if crucial facts are suppressed and half the story is missing.” At the bottom is a Warning box (red with yellow warning triangle) – “This is a deliberate and dishonest tactic. It aims to distort truth, manipulate your understanding, and undermine the very foundations of democracy by simulating genuine participation. Stay critical, stay informed.” Sources listed: Wesley (2022), Alberta Next (2025), Parkland Institute (2023).

Re-upping our “Manufacturing Consent” series ahead of the Aug 14 Alberta Next Town Hall in Edmonton. Parts 1–4 cover Push Polling, the Either-Or Trap, the Us vs. Them Story & the Hidden Half. #ABpoli #AlbertaNext #ABleg #GiveVoiceAB

We had a wonderful meetup today, and it was a heartfelt reminder of how vital it is to find, nurture, and grow community—especially in these times.
Our next roadside rally is Monday, August 11th at 4:30 p.m. in St. Albert. We will definitely have some Canadian Flags. #GiveVoiceAB #Abpoli

We’re gathering this Friday to plan future rallies, welcome 2 new members, and share ideas. 💬 No fees, no demands—just bring your passion and your voice. Whether you help in small or big ways, you’re part of the change. ✊ #ABpoli #Community #ProtestWithPurpose #GiveVoiceAB #ABpoli

#GiveVoiceAB #ABPoli #ABLeg

New series out on Democracy in Alberta. #AbLeg #AbPoli #GiveVoiceAB #UCP #Democracy

Poster titled "The UCP’s Authoritarian Playbook: Alberta’s Democracy at Risk – Concentrating Power at the Top (Part 5 in a 6-part series: How the UCP Threatens Democracy)." Features Lego-style characters with the Alberta Legislature in the background. Democratic Benchmark: "In a healthy democracy, power is shared. Local governments, civil servants, and independent agencies act as checks on the people in charge. Good leaders respect these voices and don’t try to control everything. That’s how we keep power balanced and leaders accountable." The Power Grab: UCP Actions: Centralizing Power: Bills 18 and 20 shift control from municipalities and universities to cabinet—undermining local decision-making and academic freedom. Breaking the Public Service Bargain: UCP fired officials, froze pensions, and cut civil servants out of policymaking—weakening fearless advice and silencing dissent. Rewarding Loyalists and Meddling: Filled boards with insiders and pledged to politicize courts, police, tax, academia—even immigration and sport. Threatened to fire entire boards, politicizing fields normally kept independent. Why It Matters: The Stakes: "When power is concentrated, oversight fades. Independent voices are sidelined. Public input dries up. Unchecked leaders face less scrutiny, and democracy gives way to control." Tip—What You Can Do: "Push back on power grabs. Support local voices and public institutions. Speak up when leaders try to control everything." Citations: Inspired by Jared Wesley, “The UCP is a Threat to Democracy,” The Tyee, May 6, 2024

Poster titled "The UCP’s Authoritarian Playbook: Alberta’s Democracy at Risk – What Can We Do About It? (Part 6 in a 6-part series: How the UCP Threatens Democracy)." Lego characters stand in front of the Alberta Legislature holding a megaphone. Democratic Benchmark: "In a healthy democracy, citizens don’t just vote—they stay engaged. Protest, dissent, and public debate keep leaders in check. Governments must respect these voices, and citizens must stand up when democratic norms are threatened. Democracy isn’t self-defending. It relies on us." The Power Shift: UCP’s Challenge to Democratic Engagement: Disinformation and Denial: UCP downplays democratic erosion as politics-as-usual. Leaders deny responsibility or distract from concerns by fueling partisanship. Silencing and Surveillance: Critics fear speaking out due to job or funding threats. Government portrays protest or dissent as partisan or fringe. Deflecting Accountability: Premier blames courts, Ottawa, or municipal governments. Undermining the Media: Frames critical coverage as bias—a hallmark tactic of authoritarian regimes. Why It Matters: The Stakes: "Democracy isn’t self-sustaining. It depends on active citizens who speak up, organize, and hold power to account. If we stay silent, anti-democratic forces gain ground. Change starts with everyday people taking action." Tip—What You Can Do: "Speak out—this isn’t politics as usual • Build bridges • Show up • Protest • Call/write your MLA—silence is taken as support • Talk to friends • Get involved • Vote—every election matters • Don’t wait for courts—act now • Community • Ask candidates where they stand • Reject misinformation—demand facts." Citations: Inspired by Jared Wesley, “The UCP is a Threat to Democracy,” The Tyee, May 6, 2024

New Series : 📢 Alberta’s Democracy is at Risk
🔍 Part 5 & 6 of a 6-part series
#GiveVoiceAB #ABLeg #ABpoli #Democracy #UCP

Image title: "The UCP’s Authoritarian Playbook: Alberta’s Democracy at Risk – Eroding Checks and Balances" Header: Part 3 in a 6-part series: How the UCP Threatens Democracy Democratic Benchmark: In a healthy democracy, power is shared. Courts, legislatures, watchdogs, and public agencies all help keep government honest. When leaders weaken these checks, they give themselves more control—and make it harder to hold them accountable. The Power Grab: UCP Actions 🔹 Bypassing Oversight The Sovereignty Act tried to sidestep the courts and legislature. Bill 20 lets cabinet fire local officials—stripping power from voters and weakening democratic accountability. 🔹 Stacking the Deck UCP packed arms-length boards with loyalists and pledged to politicize justice, police, academia, and public services. 🔹 Consolidating Power Bill 18 threatens academic freedom by letting cabinet veto research funding. Cut public servants out of policymaking—weakening independent advice and silencing dissent. Why It Matters: The Stakes When checks and balances erode, power concentrates. Oversight vanishes, public voices fade, watchdogs go quiet. With less scrutiny, governments grow harder to hold accountable. Democracy dims as transparency fades. Tip — What You Can Do: Pay attention to who holds power—and who’s allowed to question it. Speak up when oversight is weakened. Silence lets overreach grow. Inspired by Jared Wesley, “The UCP is a Threat to Democracy,” The Tyee, May 6, 2024; Danielle Smith’s Electoral Reforms Are Straight from the Trump Playbook,” Decoding Politics, April 29, 2025.

Image title: "The UCP’s Authoritarian Playbook: Alberta’s Democracy at Risk – Undermining Electoral Integrity" Header: Part 4 in a 6-part series: How the UCP Threatens Democracy Democratic Benchmark: In a healthy democracy, voting is free, fair, and accessible. Rules apply equally to all. Governments promote turnout—not suppress it—and campaign on promises they keep. Election law changes must be made transparently and fairly. The Power Grab: UCP Actions 🔹 Suppressing the Vote Bill 20 requires voter ID and bans tabulators—MAGA-style moves that solve no real problem but limit access and seed distrust. 🔹 Misleading Campaign Tactics The UCP promised none of its major initiatives—APP, police force, partisan municipal elections, or the Sovereignty Act—yet introduced them anyway. 🔹 Disregarding Voter Intent Bill 20 lets cabinet remove elected officials—sidelining elections and overriding voter choice. It strips communities of their democratic right to decide who represents them, placing that power behind closed doors. Why It Matters: The Stakes When elections aren’t fair, democracy unravels. Voter suppression, broken promises, and hidden agendas erode trust in the system. People disengage, leaders face less accountability, and the public loses its voice. Tip — What You Can Do: Call out voter suppression. Demand fair rules. Ask candidates where they stand—and protect your right to choose your leaders. Inspired by Jared Wesley, “The UCP is a Threat to Democracy,” The Tyee, May 6, 2024; Danielle Smith’s Electoral Reforms Are Straight from the Trump Playbook,” Decoding Politics, April 29, 2025.

New Series : 📢 Alberta’s Democracy is at Risk
🔍 Part 3 & 4 of a 6-part series
#GiveVoiceAB #ABLeg #ABpoli #Democracy #UCP

Header: The UCP’s Authoritarian Playbook: Alberta’s Democracy at Risk Title Box: Defining the Threat Part 1 in a 6-part series: How the UCP Threatens Democracy Image shows LEGO characters with the Alberta Legislature in the background. Section: Democratic Benchmark Democracy and authoritarianism exist on a spectrum. Democracy is defined by citizen participation, while authoritarianism concentrates power in the hands of a few. The UCP is pushing Alberta toward the authoritarian end. Democracy doesn’t end overnight. It erodes piece by piece. Section: Pillars of Democracy Rule of Law: Everyone is equal under the law, including those in power. Checks and Balances: Power is separated and limited to prevent abuse. Electoral Integrity: Elections are fair, transparent and public’s vote is respected. Distribution of Power: Power is shared across levels, not hoarded by one group. Section: The Erosion of Democracy The UCP’s populist worldview redefines freedom and democracy—prioritizing majority will over individual rights and silencing diverse voices. Recent moves like the Sovereignty Act show how power is shifting to cabinet, bypassing checks and balances. This shift undermines the foundational pillars of our democratic system. Section: Why It Matters: The Stakes When democracy erodes, accountability fades, power concentrates, and vital institutions suffer. Albertans have seen transparency shrink, consultation decline, and control tighten, turning public services into political tools. Section: Tip—What You Can Do Democracy fades when people stop paying attention. Stay informed, speak up, demand better. Join the conversation and fight for accountability. Source: Inspired by Jared Wesley, “The UCP is a Threat to Democracy,” The Tyee, May 6, 2024

Header: The UCP’s Authoritarian Playbook: Alberta’s Democracy at Risk Title Box: Undermining the Rule of Law Part 2 in a 6-part series: How the UCP Threatens Democracy Image shows LEGO characters with the Alberta Legislature in the background. Section: Democratic Benchmark In a healthy democracy, no one is above the law—not politicians, not the powerful. The rules are clear, applied fairly, and enforced by independent systems like the courts and police. When this breaks down, justice becomes political. Section: The Power Grab: UCP Actions Above the Law In 2019, Premier Kenney fired the election commissioner investigating his leadership race. Madu called Edm’s police chief after a ticket—raising concerns of pressure. Legal Interference In the Pawlowski case, Premier Smith’s actions drew a formal rebuke from Alberta’s Ethics Commissioner—calling it a “threat to democracy.” Targeting Cities Bill 20 brings partisan politics to Edmonton and Calgary—exempting rural areas. Why? These cities elect leaders who challenge UCP policy. Section: Why It Matters: The Stakes When rule of law breaks down, justice isn’t equal. Politicians gain impunity, trust erodes, and a two-tier system emerges—where the powerful bend rules and others pay the price. It weakens democracy and threatens rights. Section: Tip—What You Can Do Watch how leaders treat the law—especially when it’s inconvenient. Speak up when rules are bent for the powerful. Silence signals consent. Source: Inspired by Jared Wesley, “The UCP is a Threat to Democracy,” The Tyee, May 6, 2024

New Series : 📢 Alberta’s Democracy is at Risk
🔍 Part 1 & 2 of a 6-part series
#GiveVoiceAB #ABLeg #ABpoli #Democracy #UCP

If you want to know more about our group and live near or in St. Albert lets meet for a coffee. With everything that is happening in the province lets create community. We are planning to attend the inside/outside of the Albert First Town hall August 14th. #GiveVoiceAB Contact us via DM.

small signs i am with team Canada not Danielle Smith

Never 51

A couple photos from our roadside pop-up rally in St. Albert today. The theme: Never 51 and Team Canada, not Danielle Smith. Lots of supportive honks and waves! Eight of us joined for just an hour, and we plan to do it again. Great energy and strong community spirit. #GiveVoiceAB

Last night’s town hall reminded us: courage inspires courage. Hope inspires hope.
As the night progressed we clapped louder. We made noise. It mattered.
Thank you to all who showed up. The more of us there are, the stronger we become.

#AbLeg #GiveVoiceAB #CourageIsContagious

We’re starting with the rigged survey.

Push polls pretend to ask for your opinion, but only let you say what they want to hear.

Stay critical. Stay informed.
#ABPoli #ABLeg #GiveVoiceAB

MYTH #1 “Ottawa is stealing Alberta’s wealth and giving it to Quebec!” TALKING POINT We send billions to Ottawa. They turn around and hand it to Quebec. Alberta always pays more than it gets back. We carry the load — and get none of the credit. We’re done being taken for granted. REALITY Equalization is funded through federal taxes—not from Alberta’s bank account. It’s a shared insurance plan Alberta isn’t using—but could one day need. So who’s signing that cheque to Quebec? BREAKDOWN Equalization is not a transfer from Alberta to other provinces—it’s a federal redistribution program funded by personal and corporate income taxes. Alberta doesn’t send money to other provinces; it just doesn’t receive extra support because its economy is stronger. Meanwhile, Alberta receives billions every year from Ottawa through the Canada Health Transfer, EI, infrastructure funding, and emergency disaster aid. Equalization is not theft—it’s a social safety net we may one day need. Sources: Feehan (U of A), School of Public Policy; Government of Canada June 2025 GIVE VOICE

MYTH #2 “We’ll vote to leave Canada in 2027 and be free!” TALKING POINT Alberta has the right to hold a referendum. A majority vote gives us the mandate to act. That’s how we assert self-determination. No one in Ottawa or the courts can deny it. It’s time for Alberta to reclaim its freedom. REALITY You can’t separate without negotiation, constitutional change, and respect for Indigenous rights. The Clarity Act isn’t a suggestion—it’s binding law. Where does the Clarity Act say Alberta can leave unilaterally? BREAKDOWN The Clarity Act (2000) outlines the conditions under which a province may begin the process of separation. A successful referendum must have a clear question and result in a clear majority. But that alone is not enough. The federal government is constitutionally obligated to negotiate, and Indigenous peoples hold rights that must be respected. Separation requires amending the Constitution — which means buy-in from the rest of Canada. It’s not simple or fast. Sources: Clarity Act; Wesley (2022); Robertson Thesis (2023) June 2025 GIVE VOICE

We’ve updated our Alberta Myth series. Eight in this series.
Seems timely, with the Alberta Next Town Hall propaganda tour rolling across the province.
Let’s push back with facts. 🧵
#AlbertaFirst #AbLeg #AbPoli #MythBusting #GiveVoiceAB

Manufacturing Consent: 10 Propaganda Techniques of ‘Alberta Next’ Narrative Framing The “Us vs. Them” Story Part 3 in a 10-part series exposing Alberta Government Propaganda What is Narrative Framing / Us vs. Them? It’s when they tell a story where we are the good guys and they are the problem. It gets you to take sides, pick a team, and stop asking hard questions. (Icon: comedy and tragedy masks, one blue and one yellow) How Does It Work? They paint everything as a rivalry: Alberta vs. Ottawa, us vs. them. It’s like hockey—they hype the other team as the enemy, not just an opponent. Once you’re caught in the rivalry, it’s not about policy anymore—it’s about payback. What’s the Alberta Next Example? The APP video sets up a familiar story: Alberta is framed as young, productive, and overpaying—while CPP is described as bloated and run by people in Ottawa and Toronto. They say CPP decisions don’t reflect Alberta’s interests and imply we’d be better off alone. It’s a setup Albertans know all too well. Why Does It Matter? It shuts down critical thinking and turns complex issues into loyalty tests. When every message is “fight Ottawa,” real questions get lost—and real solutions too. It trains people to see anything from Ottawa as suspicious, or not worth hearing at all. This kind of framing builds resentment, not understanding. Warning This is a deliberate and dishonest tactic. It aims to distort truth, manipulate your understanding, and undermine the very foundations of democracy by simulating genuine participation. Stay critical, stay informed. Sources: Wesley (2022), Alberta Next (2025), Parkland Institute (2023)

🧱 Part 3 in our series: Manufacturing Consent – 10 Propaganda Techniques of 'Alberta Next'

The “Us vs. Them” story is designed to divide.
When everything becomes Alberta vs. Ottawa, real questions—and real solutions—get drowned out.
#ABPoli #ABLeg #GiveVoiceAB

Manufacturing Consent: 10 Propaganda Techniques of ‘Alberta Next’ Narrative Framing The “Either-Or Trap” Part 2 in a 10-part series exposing Alberta Government Propaganda What is Narrative Framing / Either-Or? It’s when they tell you there are only two choices—one that sounds good, and one that sounds bad—so you’ll pick the one they want. But the truth is, there are more than two options. They just don’t want you to see them. (Icon: two road signs with arrows pointing opposite directions) How Does It Work? It simplifies a complex issue into two opposing sides, making one seem desirable and the other undesirable, to force a biased decision. It’s like asking: “Do you want cake, or do you want to be punched in the face?” What’s the Alberta Next Example? The APP video presents a false choice: ✅ An Alberta plan “exclusively focused on maximizing returns” or ❌ A CPP with “emissions reductions and DEI concerns” that “do not always result in the highest rate of returns.” It ignores real alternatives—like CPP reform, shared management, or conditional withdrawal. Why Does It Matter? It shuts down critical thinking by hiding real alternatives. It pressures people to accept a single, pre-approved solution—as if it’s the only logical choice. When decisions are based on false framing, any referendum result is built on misinformation, not informed consent. Warning This is a deliberate and dishonest tactic. It aims to distort truth, manipulate your understanding, and undermine the very foundations of democracy by simulating genuine participation. Stay critical, stay informed. Sources: Wesley (2022), Alberta Next (2025), Parkland Institute (2023), AIMCo (2023)

🧱 Part 2 in our new series: Manufacturing Consent – 10 Propaganda Techniques of 'Alberta Next'

The “Either-Or Trap” forces a false choice—one that hides real options and pressures consent.

It’s not a real debate if you only get two bad answers.
#ABPoli #ABLeg #GiveVoiceAB

Manufacturing Consent: 10 Propaganda Techniques of ‘Alberta Next’ Push Polling The “Rigged Survey” Part 1 in a 10-part series exposing Alberta Government Propaganda What is a Push Poll? It pretends to ask for your opinion, but only offers answers they want. The questions are loaded, and there’s no real way to say no. It’s not feedback—it’s a setup. (Icon: clipboard with checkboxes and pencil) How Does It Work? They ask loaded questions with limited answers—and no option to skip. It’s like being asked, “How do you like your tea—black or with sugar?” Except you don’t like tea, and you still have to pick one. That’s not choice—it’s control. What’s the Alberta Next Example? After showing a pro-APP video, they asked: “What potential benefit do you like most about Alberta opting to leave the CPP?” No neutral option. No space to disagree. No way to skip. Just pick your favourite selling point. Why Does It Matter? Because the government will weaponize your answers—using falsely gathered information as truth. They’ll point to it to justify leaving the CPP, even though it doesn’t reflect what people actually want. Warning This is a deliberate and dishonest tactic. It aims to distort truth, manipulate your understanding, and undermine the very foundations of democracy by simulating genuine participation. Stay critical, stay informed. Sources: Alberta Next AB Gov (Jun 2025); The Tyee (Jul 2025); Wesley (U of A, 2025)

🧱 Our new series: Manufacturing Consent – 10 Propaganda Techniques of 'Alberta Next'

We’re starting with the rigged survey.

Push polls pretend to ask for your opinion, but only let you say what they want to hear.

Stay critical. Stay informed.
#ABPoli #ABLeg #GiveVoiceAB

A close-up photograph of a pink strawflower in bloom, with soft green leaves and stems in the foreground. The background is a smooth, out-of-focus gradient of green and light, creating a gentle bokeh effect. In the upper left, white script text reads: “Bloom Where You Are.

Bloom where you are.
A friend sent me this photo so we could turn it into a meme. That is action. Not everyone’s ready to protest—but for those who are, we’re here.
🌸 Roadside protest
📍 St. Albert
📅 July 21 (details TBA)
Join us. #GiveVoiceAB #ABPoli #CommunityCare

Meme with a reddish-orange gradient background showing a steep upward arrow graph. The top headline in bold yellow reads: “The Alberta Government increased daycare costs by 445% for this family.” To the right of the arrow, a black text box says: “Flat fees replaced income-based child care support in April 2025. This is cruel. It hurts real families. This is not affordability.” Below the arrow is a testimonial from a parent, styled in regular black font: “I was paying $138.00 per month for both of my sons. And now I pay 652.00 each month for both. Plus $100.00 for food for both. This started on April 1, 2025. It has made us financially struggle to say the least. Money is much more tight now than what it was prior. It did cause financial hardship on me and my family.” The quote is attributed to “– S.” The meme highlights the drastic increase in daycare costs faced by Alberta families after provincial subsidy cuts and the implementation of flat fees in 2025. The tone is critical of government policy and emphasizes financial harm to working families.

We’re sharing this message from a hardworking Alberta family.
When the government cut child care subsidies and imposed flat fees, their daycare costs skyrocketed by 445%.

It’s real financial harm to real people.
Families are being punished for needing care.

#GiveVoiceAB #ABPoli #ABLeg

Our group brings together a wide range of people from all walks of life—different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.
But one thing unites us: the deep need for community.
In these uncertain times, connection isn’t just comforting—it’s powerful.
#GiveVoiceAB #CommunityMatters

Getting ready! A few of the signs for our upcoming roadside rally. Today’s meetup was more than posters—it was about connection. Over tea and treats, we talked about what kind of community we’re building together. 💬🧁✊
#GiveVoiceAB #ABPoli #CommunityInAction #ResistTogether