Alberta referendum panel at U of A brings out heavy hitters
University of Alberta students are preparing for a panel discussion regarding a controversial upcoming referendum on separation and immigration. Students expressed concerns about social division and the impact of political rhetoric on immigrant communities.
Why it matters
The referendum highlights growing political tensions in Canada regarding regional autonomy and immigration policy, reflecting broader societal debates.
Melanie Osuzan says she’s worried and angry about the upcoming referendum and the questions about separation and immigration.
“The question is based on whether permanent residents should receive the same services as all of us, and yet they contribute taxes every single day. And they are people. They're human beings," said the U of A student.
Osuzan’s parents immigrated from the Democratic Republic of the Congo when they were teenagers.
“They were not born here but they matured here, developed here, grew up here. This is their home as much as any full blooded Canadian,” said Osuzan.
CBC is partnering with the University of Alberta Students’ Union (UASU) to livestream a student-focused discussion about what happens after the vote.
What matters most? Alberta students get ready for referendum
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