Mayor Cindy Jefferies (left) and the federal Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience Eleanor Olszewski (right). (Image Credit: rdnewsNOW-left; Supplied-right)

By Josh Hall

a country "built together"

No to separatism: Mayor Jefferies, federal Minister Olszewski make joint statement

Sep 18, 2026 | 3:08 PM

Red Deer Mayor Cindy Jefferies is taking a stand on separatism alongside Eleanor Olszewski, the federal Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience.

Olszewski is also the Member of Parliament for Edmonton Centre, and the Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada.

The two had meetings this week as Red Deer hosted the Mid-Sized Cities Mayors Caucus.

“As a federal minister and a municipal leader, our responsibilities are different, but today’s discussions underscored how much Albertans depend on all orders of government working together — to protect jobs, build infrastructure, keep communities safe, deliver the services people rely on and build a more prosperous future,” the pair said in a joint statement.

They go on to say Alberta is a place of ambition, driven by entrepreneurs, innovators, and strong communities.

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‘But today, Albertans are facing increased uncertainty, and in a changing world, we must focus on what we can control,” they continue.

“From unjustified U.S. tariffs to the prospect of Alberta separation, our future is at risk. In the face of these threats, unity is our greatest strength.”

“Alberta in Canada and Canada with Alberta … our country was built together by generations of hard work united by a shared commitment to Canada’s success. Alberta is at the heart of that success and is central to building our country strong.”

Olzsewski and Jefferies implore Albertans to show up at the polls to vote on Oct. 19, referendum day.

“Bring this uncertainty to an end and vote decisively for Alberta to remain in Canada in this fall’s referendum.”

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by Josh Hall

No to separatism: Mayor Jefferies, federal Minister Olszewski make joint statement

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