‘Recall Smith’ brings Calgarians out to protest Alberta Premier’s policies

After a “Recall Smith” rally in Edmonton a week ago, a similar event at Calgary City Hall Saturday brought out many to show discontent with the Alberta Premier and her UCP government’s policies.

Many Calgarians arrived at the loosely organized protest at 10 a.m. as advertised on social media, carrying signs and chanting “UCP has got to go.”

Some hopped on a step to share their frustrations, belting out their voice with no equipment, microphones, or bullhorns of any kind. This led many more to gather around and take turns.

Sitting at the back, taking it all in and taking notes was Carolyn Sainchuk. She says this is the first protest that she has ever attended.

“I’m tired of being frustrated, and I’m tired of swearing at the computer. I just wanted to be here as a body to say I don’t trust this government,” she told CityNews.

Some of the issues that Sainchuk and others at the rally voiced support for include well-funded public healthcare and education systems, and maintaining Alberta’s Canadian identity.

“Our government, I feel, is actively trying to divide people against each other,” Calgarian Jake Branchaud said.

Andy Sytsema with advocacy group Taking Alberta Forward, says it has been a “continuous attack” on vulnerable communities and public services.

“It’s been a continuous attack on whether it’s nurses, doctors, teachers, frontline workers, scientists, disabled Albertans, seniors, emergency medical services, it’s always been punching down–transgender youth,” he said.

Danielle Smith is the MLA for Brooks-Medicine Hat, and there’s currently no official petition underway to recall her. However, the people here are hoping to build support and to be heard.

“We’re not happy with the government right now. We’re not happy with the direction they are taking us. We don’t believe in what they are doing,” Sytsema said.

“It’s time to make a change, and two years is going to be too long.”

Sainchuk, who is a born and raised Albertan, is also hoping for a change.

“I used to be a proud Albertan, and I’m not anymore. I’ll say I’m Canadian, but being an Albertan will be the second thing I’ll say about myself,” she said.

According to Elections Alberta, the application period to recall an MLA closes 12 months before the next provincial election, which is in two years.