Standing up for Canada! Hello Friends, I hope you’re well. I can’t believe it’s February already! Like many of you, I’ve found 2026 to be an alarming cycle of fast-paced news, much of which has been both disturbing and disheartening. Amidst the chaos of both local and international turmoil, I truly hope you’re finding time for yourself, for your loved ones, and for doing things that bring you peace.    Remember, rest can be a radical act of resistance in a world that’s constantly pulling your attention in competing directions. This is because rest (as I’m still learning) is what gives us the strength to move forward in our collective work towards a better Alberta.    …and speaking of collective work, I wanted to talk about an issue that’s on so many of your minds right now: the future of our province and country. Renouncing Separatism and Standing Up For Canada Recently, we learned the disturbing news that Alberta separatists have been conspiring with senior Trump officials to undermine Canada’s sovereignty. This news is deeply troubling. We need leaders to speak clearly and call this out.    Multiple premiers, including David Eby in B.C. and Wab Kinew in Manitoba are speaking out; even Ontario Conservative Premier Doug Ford has called on Alberta’s Premier to stand up. We’re seeing leadership from across our country stand up for Canada - with one exception: Danielle Smith.    Premier Smith has paved the way for separatism to flourish in Alberta, and has fanned the flames through her language, legislation, and actions. She is willing to risk Alberta’s economy, our safety, and our country all to appease a small percentage of Albertans. I can’t believe I’m quoting Doug Ford, but he’s right: enough is enough.   This week, I was extremely proud to stand alongside our leader, Naheed Nenshi, to unequivocally renounce separatism and pledge my allegiance to Canada. Please know that me and our Alberta New Democrat team will always fight for Canada - and we won’t back down.  Watch my video message by clicking here. Thank you, always   I’m grateful to all of you who’ve volunteered, donated, and helped throughout 2025. I’m so proud to have learned that we, the NDP, outfundraised the UCP in the final quarter of last year. I want to keep that momentum going, as the next election could come anytime. Any amount makes a huge difference!    Please don’t hesitate to reach out anytime, friends. I love hearing from you.   Take care of yourself, and each other, Janis