These Newfoundlanders in Alberta have differing opinions on separation

These Newfoundlanders in Alberta have differing opinions on separation

N.L. ex-pats in Alberta voting in Monday's referendum

Ahead of Alberta's referendum on Monday, some ex-pat Newfoundlanders and Labradorians — who get to vote — are speaking out about where they stand on the issue.

"I think I would definitely vote separation," said Lisa Barnett, who moved from Grand Falls, N.L., to Edmonton when she was 18.

Her roots on the Rock don't mean she wants to stay in Canada — even if her family back home disagree. Barnett voiced concerns about economic unfairness, lack of federal voting representation and immigration.

"I think enough is enough," she said.

Thousands from N.L. have moved to Alberta in the last decade alone, according to Statistics Canada, often for work.

Barnett runs the Facebook group "Edmonton Newfies," with more than 30,000 members. She keeps politics off the page, saying it gets too heated. But, Barnett says, she sees split opinions on the referendum.

"I think it's especially hard for Newfoundlanders," said Barnett.

"A lot of them left home to move here and made this their home [...] The idea then it would not be a part of Canada anymore would be a little bit shocking."

'Move back to Newfoundland' if Alberta separates

Meanwhile, Newfoundlander Paula Krawiec has been campaigning to keep Canada together.

If Alberta did separate, "I would sell off and I would move back to Newfoundland," Krawiec said.

She's already cast her vote to remain in Canada, waiting in line more than two hours for advanced polls.

Albertans will vote on 10 questions in a referendum Oct. 19, including whether they support the province remaining in Confederation, or they support the province beginning the legal process to have a second, binding referendum on separation. (Janet French/CBC)

Krawiec is from Stephenville, N.L., but has lived in Alberta more than 30 years. She's been involved with the Forever Canadian campaign in her city of Spruce Grove, collecting petition signatures and giving out signs.

"Alberta is Canadian. I'm Canadian," she said.

"I understand some people are upset on certain things, but breaking up Alberta from Canada is not the answer."

The referendum Monday won't decide if Alberta leaves Canada or not. Instead, it asks if Alberta should have a binding vote on separation later, keeping the door open for national divorce.

Whatever happens in the referendum, Krawiec says she'll keep pushing for unity.

"Canada is worth fighting for and I won't stop until this is put to bed."

Albertans line up for first day of advance voting in referendum

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Laura Howells is a CBC reporter in John's, Newfoundland and Labrador. She has also worked in Toronto, Hamilton and Whitehorse. Get in touch at laura.howells@cbc.ca.