Cost-of-living worries drive diverse Albertans’ views on upcoming independence vote

a journalist at one outlet Ahead poll, conducted with Janet Brown Opinion Research, found a narrow two-point advantage for non-white Albertans who favor staying in Canada in the Oct. 19 referendum. Conversations at Calgary’s Sunridge Mall revealed a spectrum of motivations: truck driver Mohamed Elhaouzi mentioned friends losing businesses and mortgages yet personally prefers unity; psychologist Adam Elkestawi described a sense of displacement that keeps him politically aloof; retail employee Karen Berdin, a recent immigrant, supports independence, arguing Alberta’s oil revenues are unfairly taxed.

Data analyst John Santos explained that higher education levels and urban residence among visible minorities correlate with federalist leanings, while financial strain remains a strong driver of separatist sentiment. He warned that influential community figures could still mobilize voters in ethnocultural circles. Student Gurnoor Grewal observed limited discussion within the Sikh community and stressed the need for outreach to older immigrants.