by Talking to Albertans
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In this video I begin a deep dive into one of the most discussed documents in the Alberta independence movement: “The Value of Freedom,” a fully costed fiscal plan for an independent Alberta.
Recently someone challenged me on social media to a polite debate about Alberta independence. We’ve been going back and forth in the comments, and it’s actually been a thoughtful discussion.
But comment threads disappear. Very few people ever see them.
So instead of writing replies that vanish into the internet, I decided to turn the discussion into a video series.
In this series I will read and analyze The Value of Freedom section by section, exploring the arguments for Alberta independence and addressing the criticisms that opponents often raise.
Many people have heard about this document.
Supporters cite it. Critics dismiss it.
But how many people have actually taken the time to read it?
So on this cold day in March, instead of filming another street conversation, I decided to sit down and do my homework.
My goal is not simply to promote the document.
My goal is to understand it.
Before recording this video I wrote down the kinds of criticisms opponents of Alberta independence might raise. For the sake of intellectual honesty, I want to present those criticisms clearly and fairly.
Throughout this series I’ll try to do two things:
- Present the strongest arguments critics might make against The Value of Freedom
- Explain why I believe the document raises serious points Albertans should consider
The question of Alberta independence is not a small political question. It could be one of the biggest decisions Albertans make in our lifetimes.
Because of that, people on both sides of this debate should take the time to examine the arguments carefully.
Each video in this series will be around 30 minutes or less.
I’ll read the document section by section, pause when appropriate, share commentary, respond to criticisms, and occasionally address comments from viewers who disagree with me.
Whether you support Alberta independence, oppose it, or are still undecided, my hope is that this series helps all of us think more carefully about the arguments.
Read the document discussed in this video
The Value of Freedom
A Draft Fully Costed Fiscal Plan for an Independent Alberta
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