Over the past several months, Albertans have engaged in an important conversation about our province’s future and our place within Canada. Through the referendum, Albertans have now made their voices heard, affirming that our future remains within Confederation.
While this debate has brought forward different perspectives about Alberta’s future, it has also reinforced something we know to be true: Albertans care deeply about the prosperity of our province, the strength of our communities and the opportunities available for future generations.
Now, we have an opportunity to turn the page.
At a time of growing global competition, trade uncertainty and the urgent need to improve productivity and attract investment, Alberta is uniquely positioned to help lead the way. Our energy resources, entrepreneurial spirit and skilled workforce are important strengths. By working together, we can leverage them to advance major projects, expand market access, diversify our economy and strengthen Canada’s competitiveness.
Realizing these opportunities will require strong relationships between governments, businesses and communities, along with a renewed commitment to economic certainty, competitive policies and getting things built.
The Calgary Chamber will continue to champion these priorities on behalf of our members.
We also recognize that the concerns and frustrations that contributed to this debate have not disappeared. There is important work ahead to strengthen Alberta’s voice within Confederation, improve relationships between governments and ensure our province – and country – can realize their full economic potential. Moving forward means addressing these challenges constructively, with a shared focus on delivering results.
I want to sincerely thank our members who participated in our surveys, shared their perspectives, engaged in conversations and contributed to our advocacy throughout this process. Your insights helped ensure that the voice of Calgary’s business community was heard during an important moment for our province.
The referendum may have answered a question about Alberta’s constitutional future, but the work of building a stronger, more prosperous Alberta continues.
This is our opportunity to move beyond division and toward shared ambition. To strengthen relationships, restore confidence and turn opportunity into action. To focus less on what separates us and more on what we can accomplish together.
The Calgary Chamber looks forward to working alongside our members, governments and partners across the country to help make that future a reality.
Sincerely,
Deborah Yedlin
President and CEO
Calgary Chamber of Commerce
About the Calgary Chamber of Commerce
The Calgary Chamber exists to empower our business community to advance a prosperous Calgary and Canada. As the convenor and catalyst for a vibrant, inclusive and prosperous business community, the Chamber works to build strength and resilience among its members and position Calgary as a magnet for talent, diversification and opportunity. As an independent, non-profit, non-partisan organization founded in 1891, we build on our history to serve and advocate for businesses of all sizes, in all sectors across the city.
