In March 2026, an article published on The Conversation titled “Danielle Smith’s immigration referendum fuels an ‘us versus them’ divide in Alberta” examines the Alberta government’s proposed immigration referendum and its potential impact on social cohesion.

The article written by Esra Ari, Assistant Professor of Sociology, Mount Royal University, and Bronwyn Bragg, Assistant Professor, Department of Geography & Environment, University of Lethbridge, argues that the framing of the referendum risks creating an “us versus them” dynamic, which could deepen divisions across communities in the province. It also notes that some of the proposed questions target access to public services, raising concerns about “feelings of exclusion and mistrust” among immigrant communities.

The author further suggests that this kind of political approach can “shift attention away from structural challenges” by placing blame on specific groups, which may have broader consequences for social unity in Alberta.

Read the full article here.