Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has announced a referendum on separatism scheduled for October 19, responding to the wishes of 700,000 Albertans. This decision comes despite a recent court ruling indicating that First Nations were not adequately consulted regarding the citizen-led petition for the referendum. The petition received 300,000 signatures, while a counter-petition advocating for Alberta's continued unity with Canada gathered 400,000 signatures. During the western premiers conference in Kananaskis, Smith faced criticism from fellow premiers, including Manitoba's Wab Kinew and British Columbia's David Eby, who urged her to delay the referendum to prioritize national energy projects. Smith, however, insists that the referendum is necessary for addressing Albertans' concerns and moving forward. She emphasized the importance of collaboration with Ottawa on energy projects, despite political differences, and expressed optimism about the future of the western provinces and territories. Smith's approach aims to balance the separatism debate with the pressing need for energy security and economic cooperation.