Danielle Smith's "Reckless Referendum" // Disability Round Table

May 6, 2025

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Premier Danielle Smith says her Canada includes Alberta...but she'll trigger a referendum question on separation if enough Albertans petition her to do so. This, just days after her UCP government made it (much) easier to do exactly that. Meantime, as Alberta sovereigntists grow louder after Mark Carney's election win, First Nations leaders are pushing back with a reminder about treaty agreements. Advocates fighting poverty, inequality, and inaction are crying foul over political stunts and distractions. Where is all of this headed? We approach from a couple different angles in this episode of Real Talk.

3:30 | Jespo picks out a few key moments from Premier Smith's live TV address and shares his thoughts.

WHAT DO YOU THINK? talk@ryanjespersen.com

13:10 | Grand Chief Greg Desjarlais says Smith's referendum talk is "reckless" and the Confederation of Treaty Six First Nations is prepared to fight in court.

41:50 | Jespo and Johnny get into the Real Talk Live Chat powered by Park Power.

SAVE on ELECTRICITY, NATURAL GAS, and INTERNET: https://parkpower.ca/realtalk/

45:50 | Albertans with disabilities are living with more challenges than ever due to funding cuts, dwindling supports, and lack of accessibility legislation. We connect with advocates Zachary Weeks and Michelle Kristinson ahead of a rally at the Alberta Legislature.

LEARN MORE: https://www.barrierfreeab.ca/

1:13:00 | Jespo and Johnny debrief, including a look at Real Talkers' lived experiences as shared in the Live Chat. (Subscribe to our YouTube channel and be part of the conversation!)

1:25:30 | Real Talkers Tom and Ron have thoughts - many thoughts - after Premier Smith's live address.

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The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.