From firewall to separatism

I’m not arguing Stephen Harper created Western alienation, nor that he pushed the idea of Alberta separatism. But he did help legitimize the notion that Alberta had to be the master of its own house. Isn’t the logical conclusion of that idea, separation?

Former prime minister Stephen Harper, left, and historian, author, and Hill Times columnist Arthur Milnes arrive for a panel discussion held by Library and Archives Canada on Feb. 5, 2026. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Opinion

BY GERRY NICHOLLS

June 8, 2026

OAKVILLE, ONT.—If you want to trace the possible origins of Alberta’s separatist movement, which is making so much news these days, I think you must look back a few decades.

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