Smith to make case for remaining in Canada at two-day separation forum

Advertisement 1 This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Breadcrumb Trail Links HomeNewsLocal News Smith to make case for remaining in Canada at two-day separation forum Online forum will be held this weekend Author of the article: By Noah Brennan Published Sep 16, 2026 Last updated 7 minutes ago 1 minute read Join the conversation Preston Manning announces details of the Alberta and the West Assembly, a virtual event that will bring together proponents of various approaches to the future of Alberta in confederation. The announcement was made at the Le Germain Hotel in downtown Calgary on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. Gavin Young/Postmedia Article content Prominent voices from both sides of Alberta’s separation debate will convene for a two-day online forum this weekend — including a presentation from Premier Danielle Smith. Article content The Alberta and the West virtual assembly, co-chaired by former Reform Party of Canada leader Preston Manning and former B.C. premier Gordon Campbell, will run Saturday and Sunday. Article content Article content During a news conference Wednesday morning, Manning described the event as an “educational exercise” aimed at providing information to help address questions about Alberta’s Oct. 19 referendum. Article content Article content “Hopefully it will help Albertans that have to make a decision with respect to the referendum,” Manning told reporters. Article content Noon News Roundup Your weekday lunchtime roundup of curated links, news highlights, analysis and features. Sign Up By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. Interested in more newsletters? Browse here. Article content The former federal Opposition leader said organizers, including himself, will serve in a neutral role and will not take a public position on either side of the debate. Article content “Our role is just to make sure each of the options get out, and that they get thoroughly examined,” he said. “We’re not taking a particular position, even though we have one.” Article content Manning announced several presentations set to take place over the weekend from voices on both sides of the debate. Article content On Saturday, Smith will present her position to “remain and build a strong and sovereign province within, not separate from, a united Canada,” Manning said. Article content Keith Wilson at the May 25, 2026 Calgary event called A Debate Over…