{"config":{"lang":["en"],"separator":"[\\s\\-]+","pipeline":["stopWordFilter"]},"docs":[{"location":"","title":"Defending Democracy in Alberta","text":"<p>The Alberta Democracy Taskforce is a coalition committed to protecting and expanding democratic rights in the face of the UCP government's authoritarian overreach. We believe that democracy should serve the people, not wealthy elites and corporations.</p>"},{"location":"#our-mission","title":"Our Mission","text":"<p>We stand for: - Expanding voting access for all Albertans - Getting big money out of politics through public financing and strict donation limits - Protecting electoral integrity with proper oversight and modern counting methods - Defending local democracy against partisan interference - Supporting workers' political rights and union participation in democracy</p>"},{"location":"#take-action","title":"Take Action","text":"<p>Democracy requires your participation. Explore our site to learn about the threats facing Alberta's democratic institutions and how you can help defend them.</p>"},{"location":"#about-this-site","title":"About This Site","text":"<p>This website is built using Changemaker Lite, an open-source, self-hosted platform designed for documentation and collaborative development. Changemaker Lite provides everything needed to create, maintain, and deploy websites like this one.</p>"},{"location":"#why-changemaker-lite","title":"Why Changemaker Lite?","text":"<ul> <li>Self-hosted: Complete control over your data and content</li> <li>Open source: Free to use and modify for any organization</li> <li>Collaborative: Built-in tools for team editing and contribution</li> <li>Portable: Can be downloaded and rebuilt on any computer</li> <li>Integrated: Includes documentation, automation, and publishing tools</li> </ul>"},{"location":"#rebuild-this-site","title":"Rebuild This Site","text":"<p>You can download and rebuild this entire site on your own computer:</p> <ol> <li>Download: Clone the repository from git.albertademocracytaskforce.org/admin/ab.dem.tf.changemaker.git</li> <li>Setup: Run the included configuration script</li> <li>Launch: Start all services with Docker Compose</li> <li>Customize: Modify content and styling to fit your needs</li> </ol> <p>For detailed instructions, see our Changemaker Lite documentation.</p>"},{"location":"#contributing-to-this-site","title":"Contributing to This Site","text":"<p>Want to help improve this site or add content? We welcome contributions from anyone interested in defending democracy in Alberta. Our contribution guide will walk you through everything you need to know, even if you've never used Git before.</p>"},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/","title":"The Damage Done: Bill 54's Attack on Alberta Democracy","text":""},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#a-comprehensive-analysis-of-how-bill-54-undermines-democratic-rights","title":"A Comprehensive Analysis of How Bill 54 Undermines Democratic Rights","text":"<p>Bill 54 (the Election Statutes Amendment Act, 2025) represents the most comprehensive assault on democratic institutions in Alberta's history. This page breaks down exactly what the legislation does and why each provision threatens democratic participation.</p>"},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#corporate-money-floods-back-into-politics","title":"Corporate Money Floods Back Into Politics","text":""},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#what-changed","title":"What Changed","text":"<p>Bill 54 reintroduces corporate and union donations to political parties and candidates, with an aggregate maximum of $5,000 per year to parties, constituency associations, candidates and third-party political advertisers. A separate $5,000 limit applies to leadership candidates.</p>"},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#the-real-impact","title":"The Real Impact","text":"<p>For Corporations:</p> <ul> <li>Oil and gas companies can now donate up to $5,000 to the UCP and affiliated entities</li> <li>Real estate developers can buy influence in municipal and provincial elections</li> <li>Alberta corporations can shape our politics through direct donations</li> <li>Corporate interests gain direct access to political parties that individual donors cannot match</li> </ul> <p>For Workers:</p> <ul> <li>Union donations are also limited to the same $5,000 aggregate maximum</li> <li>Despite equal donation limits, corporate wealth gives businesses significant structural advantages</li> <li>Multiple corporations can donate from the same industry or ownership group</li> <li>Workers' collective voice faces the same monetary restrictions as individual corporate entities</li> <li>The playing field remains tilted toward capital due to the number and wealth of corporate donors</li> </ul>"},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#who-benefits","title":"Who Benefits","text":"<ul> <li>Corporate interests who can now donate $5,000 annually to buy direct political access</li> <li>Wealthy developers seeking favorable zoning and development decisions through municipal donations</li> <li>Resource extraction companies wanting fewer environmental regulations</li> <li>The UCP who are likely to receive the majority of corporate donations</li> <li>Multiple corporate entities from the same industry who can each donate the maximum amount</li> </ul>"},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#who-gets-hurt","title":"Who Gets Hurt","text":"<ul> <li>Working families whose small individual donations are dwarfed by coordinated corporate giving</li> <li>Environmental groups facing well-funded corporate opposition from multiple donors</li> <li>Community organizations that cannot access the same level of organized financial support</li> <li>Democratic equality when corporate money tips the scales of political influence</li> </ul>"},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#voter-suppression-through-election-integrity","title":"Voter Suppression Through \"Election Integrity\"","text":""},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#elimination-of-vouching","title":"Elimination of Vouching","text":"<p>What it was: A system allowing eligible voters to vouch for other eligible voters who lacked proper identification.</p> <p>What it's been replaced with: Strict ID requirements with no backup options for eligible voters.</p> <p>Who this hurts:</p> <ul> <li>Indigenous peoples living on reserves where addresses may not match government records</li> <li>Homeless Albertans who lack fixed addresses or current ID</li> <li>Students who may not have updated identification reflecting current addresses</li> <li>Recent immigrants still navigating bureaucratic ID processes</li> <li>Seniors who may have difficulty obtaining or maintaining current identification</li> <li>Low-income Albertans who can't afford to replace lost or expired ID</li> </ul> <p>The real purpose: Reducing turnout among communities likely to vote against the UCP.</p>"},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#electronic-tabulator-ban","title":"Electronic Tabulator Ban","text":"<p>What changed: Prohibition on electronic vote counting machines that have been used safely for decades.</p> <p>What this means:</p> <ul> <li>Slower results due to hand-counting requirements</li> <li>Higher costs for municipalities forced to hire more counting staff</li> <li>More errors as human counting is less accurate than machine counting</li> <li>Undermined confidence in election results due to delays and mistakes</li> </ul> <p>The real purpose: Creating doubt about election integrity while making voting more difficult and expensive.</p>"},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#partisan-politics-invades-local-democracy","title":"Partisan Politics Invades Local Democracy","text":""},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#political-parties-in-municipal-elections","title":"Political Parties in Municipal Elections","text":"<p>What changed: For the first time, political parties are allowed in municipal elections in Edmonton and Calgary.</p> <p>**What this destroys: **</p> <ul> <li>Community-focused governance where candidates respond to local needs</li> <li>Non-partisan problem-solving on issues like roads, water, and local services</li> <li>Independent decision-making by councillors accountable to their neighborhoods</li> <li>Collaborative governance based on community consensus rather than party lines</li> </ul> <p>What this creates:</p> <ul> <li>Top-down control by provincial party organizations</li> <li>Imported conflicts from provincial and federal politics</li> <li>Corporate influence through party donations in local races</li> <li>Ideological division where practical community issues become partisan battles</li> </ul>"},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#impact-on-different-communities","title":"Impact on Different Communities","text":"<p>Small Towns and Rural Areas:</p> <ul> <li>Local candidates must now choose provincial political sides</li> <li>Community consensus-building becomes partisan competition</li> <li>Provincial party priorities override local community needs</li> <li>Traditional non-partisan local leadership is undermined</li> </ul> <p>Cities:</p> <ul> <li>Corporate donors can buy influence over development decisions</li> <li>Municipal policy becomes subject to provincial party discipline</li> <li>Local environmental and social initiatives face partisan opposition</li> <li>Community-based politics is replaced by top-down party control</li> </ul>"},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#lowering-the-bar-for-separation-referendums","title":"Lowering the Bar for Separation Referendums","text":""},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#making-divisive-referendums-easier","title":"Making Divisive Referendums Easier","text":"<p>What changed: Bill 54 dramatically lowers the threshold for citizen-initiated referendums and extends the signature collection period.</p> <p>The specific changes:</p> <ul> <li>Reduced signature requirement: From 20% of registered voters (roughly 600,000 signatures) to 10% of people who voted in the last election (approximately 177,000 signatures)</li> <li>Extended collection time: From 90 days to 120 days to gather signatures</li> <li>Elimination of riding thresholds: No longer requires signatures from two-thirds of constituencies for constitutional questions</li> </ul> <p>What this enables:</p> <ul> <li>Separation referendums become much more achievable for organized groups</li> <li>Divisive constitutional questions can more easily reach the ballot</li> <li>Well-funded campaigns can more easily manipulate democratic processes</li> <li>Minority positions can force province-wide votes on fundamental issues</li> </ul> <p>Who this threatens:</p> <ul> <li>Indigenous Nations whose Treaty rights could be jeopardized by separation</li> <li>Federal constitutional protections that safeguard minority rights</li> <li>Economic stability threatened by constitutional uncertainty</li> <li>Social cohesion undermined by constant referendum campaigns</li> </ul> <p>The real purpose: Creating a pathway for Alberta separation while appearing to enhance democratic participation.</p>"},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#weakening-electoral-oversight","title":"Weakening Electoral Oversight","text":""},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#reducing-the-chief-electoral-officers-powers","title":"Reducing the Chief Electoral Officer's Powers","text":"<p>What changed: The Chief Electoral Officer's investigative authority has been significantly weakened.</p> <p>Practical impact:</p> <ul> <li>Harder to investigate campaign finance violations</li> <li>Easier to break rules without consequences</li> <li>Less enforcement of spending limits and donation rules</li> <li>Reduced deterrent effect for potential law-breakers</li> </ul> <p>Who benefits: Wealthy interests who want to break campaign finance rules without facing penalties.</p> <p>Who gets hurt: Ordinary Albertans who depend on fair rules and equal enforcement.</p>"},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#the-broader-authoritarian-pattern","title":"The Broader Authoritarian Pattern","text":""},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#bill-54-in-context","title":"Bill 54 in Context","text":"<p>This legislation is part of a broader UCP strategy to concentrate power and weaken democratic institutions:</p> <p>Bill 20 (2024): Gave cabinet power to fire mayors and overturn municipal bylaws Budget cuts: Defunded organizations providing democratic oversight Labor restrictions: Weakened unions' ability to participate in politics Environmental suppression: Restricted activism and protest rights</p>"},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#the-ultimate-goal","title":"The Ultimate Goal","text":"<p>The UCP's anti-democratic agenda aims to:</p> <ul> <li>Eliminate effective opposition to corporate and government power</li> <li>Concentrate decision-making in the Premier's office and cabinet</li> <li>Weaken community resistance to unpopular policies</li> <li>Create one-party dominance through institutional manipulation</li> </ul>"},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#real-world-consequences","title":"Real-World Consequences","text":""},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#what-this-looks-like-in-practice","title":"What This Looks Like in Practice","text":"<p>Municipal Elections:</p> <ul> <li>Developers donate heavily to pro-development candidates</li> <li>Environmental candidates are outspent by corporate-backed opponents</li> <li>Local issues become proxy fights for provincial politics</li> <li>Community voices are drowned out by outside money</li> </ul> <p>Provincial Elections:</p> <ul> <li>Corporate donations dwarf individual contributions</li> <li>Policy platforms reflect corporate interests rather than public needs</li> <li>Candidates spend more time fundraising from wealthy donors than talking to voters</li> <li>Working-class candidates can't compete without corporate backing</li> </ul> <p>Democratic Participation:</p> <ul> <li>Ordinary Albertans become cynical about the political process</li> <li>Voter turnout drops as people feel their voices don't matter</li> <li>Community organizations stop engaging with politics</li> <li>Democratic institutions lose legitimacy and public trust</li> </ul>"},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#the-social-democratic-alternative","title":"The Social Democratic Alternative","text":""},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#what-real-democratic-reform-looks-like","title":"What Real Democratic Reform Looks Like","text":"<p>Campaign Finance:</p> <ul> <li>Public financing of campaigns to ensure equal access</li> <li>Strict individual donation limits (e.g., $200 per person per year)</li> <li>Real-time disclosure of all political donations</li> <li>Strong enforcement with meaningful penalties for violations</li> </ul> <p>Voting Access:</p> <ul> <li>Automatic voter registration for all eligible citizens</li> <li>Multiple ways to prove identity including community vouching</li> <li>Extended voting periods with more advance voting opportunities</li> <li>Accessible voting for people with disabilities</li> </ul> <p>Local Democracy:</p> <ul> <li>Protected municipal autonomy enshrined in law</li> <li>Non-partisan local elections maintained</li> <li>Proportional representation to ensure all voices are heard</li> <li>Community control over local development and services</li> </ul> <p>Electoral Integrity:</p> <ul> <li>Independent electoral administration free from political interference</li> <li>Modern counting technology with paper audit trails</li> <li>Strong investigative powers for electoral officers</li> <li>Transparent processes that build rather than undermine public confidence</li> </ul>"},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#the-path-to-reversal","title":"The Path to Reversal","text":""},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#legal-challenges","title":"Legal Challenges","text":"<p>Several aspects of Bill 54 are vulnerable to constitutional challenge:</p> <ul> <li>Charter violations in voter suppression provisions</li> <li>Indigenous rights violations in separation referendum provisions</li> <li>Federal jurisdiction issues in electoral administration</li> <li>Municipal autonomy protections under existing law</li> </ul>"},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#electoral-strategy","title":"Electoral Strategy","text":"<ul> <li>Support candidates committed to reversing Bill 54</li> <li>Run democratic candidates at all levels of government</li> <li>Build coalitions across affected communities</li> <li>Organize voter registration drives in affected communities</li> </ul>"},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#community-resistance","title":"Community Resistance","text":"<ul> <li>Document the harm as Bill 54 is implemented</li> <li>Support affected voters in navigating new barriers</li> <li>Challenge implementation through administrative and legal means</li> <li>Build alternative democratic structures at the community level</li> </ul>"},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#what-you-can-do","title":"What You Can Do","text":""},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#immediate-actions","title":"Immediate Actions","text":"<ol> <li>Contact your MLA and demand they oppose Bill 54's implementation</li> <li>Support organizations challenging the legislation in court</li> <li>Help affected voters navigate new voting barriers</li> <li>Document instances where Bill 54 harms democratic participation</li> </ol>"},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#long-term-organizing","title":"Long-term Organizing","text":"<ol> <li>Join or support organizations working for democratic reform</li> <li>Volunteer for candidates committed to reversing Bill 54</li> <li>Educate others about the legislation's harmful impacts</li> <li>Build community power that can resist authoritarian measures</li> </ol>"},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#electoral-engagement","title":"Electoral Engagement","text":"<ol> <li>Ensure you're registered to vote under the new rules</li> <li>Help others register and understand voting requirements</li> <li>Support democratic candidates at all levels</li> <li>Consider running for office yourself to defend democracy</li> </ol>"},{"location":"bill-54-analysis/#the-stakes","title":"The Stakes","text":"<p>Bill 54 represents a fundamental choice about what kind of society we want to live in:</p> <p>The UCP's Vision:</p> <ul> <li>Democracy for sale to the highest bidder</li> <li>Corporate interests above community needs</li> <li>Centralized control over local decisions</li> <li>Barriers to participation for ordinary Albertans</li> </ul> <p>Our Vision:</p> <ul> <li>Democracy accessible to all regardless of wealth</li> <li>Community control over local decisions</li> <li>Equal voice for all Albertans in politics</li> <li>Government accountable to people, not corporations</li> </ul> <p>The damage done by Bill 54 is real and immediate, but it's not irreversible. With sustained organizing and political action, we can restore and expand democratic rights in Alberta.</p> <p>This analysis is based on the text of Bill 54 and its documented impacts. For source materials, see our archive. For ways to take action, see our resources page.</p>"},{"location":"faq/","title":"Frequently Asked Questions","text":""},{"location":"faq/#common-questions-about-bill-54-and-democratic-rights-in-alberta","title":"Common Questions About Bill 54 and Democratic Rights in Alberta","text":"<p>This page answers the most common questions we receive about Bill 54, the UCP's anti-democratic agenda, and how ordinary Albertans can fight back.</p>"},{"location":"faq/#about-bill-54","title":"About Bill 54","text":"What exactly is Bill 54?  Bill 54 (the Election Statutes Amendment Act, 2025) is legislation passed by the UCP government that fundamentally changes how elections work in Alberta. It:  <ul> <li>Allows corporate and union donations up to $5,000 annually to political campaigns</li> <li>Eliminates voter vouching systems</li> <li>Bans electronic vote tabulators</li> <li>Allows political parties in municipal elections in Edmonton and Calgary</li> <li>Weakens the Chief Electoral Officer's investigative powers</li> </ul> When did Bill 54 become law?  Bill 54 received Royal Assent on May 15, 2025, making it law in Alberta.  Why is Bill 54 called anti-democratic?  The legislation makes it harder for ordinary Albertans to vote while making it easier for wealthy corporations to buy political influence. It centralizes power while weakening oversight\u2014classic hallmarks of authoritarian governance.  Doesn't the bill also allow union donations?  While the bill technically allows both corporate and union donations with the same $5,000 aggregate limit, the practical effect is very different:  <ul> <li>Corporations can coordinate donations from multiple entities to maximize influence</li> <li>Unions represent workers' collective interests, not individual profit</li> <li>Union political activity remains subject to additional restrictions</li> <li>Corporate influence will far outweigh workers' collective voice</li> </ul>"},{"location":"faq/#about-corporate-donations","title":"About Corporate Donations","text":"Why are corporate donations bad for democracy?  Corporate donations create a system where:  <ul> <li>Policy is shaped by those who can afford to buy influence</li> <li>Ordinary voters are drowned out by corporate money</li> <li>Politicians become accountable to donors rather than constituents</li> <li>Democratic equality becomes impossible when money determines political influence</li> </ul> What kinds of corporations will donate?  Expect major donations from:  <ul> <li>Oil and gas companies seeking favorable regulations</li> <li>Real estate developers wanting easier approvals</li> <li>Large retailers opposing minimum wage increases</li> <li>Financial institutions seeking deregulation</li> <li>Any business wanting government contracts or favorable treatment</li> </ul> How much money are we talking about?  Corporate political donations can easily reach:  <ul> <li>Hundreds of thousands from major corporations per election</li> <li>Millions collectively from entire industries</li> <li>Amounts that dwarf small individual donations from working families</li> <li>Enough money to fundamentally alter political competition</li> </ul>"},{"location":"faq/#about-voting-changes","title":"About Voting Changes","text":"What is \"vouching\" and why does it matter?  Vouching allowed eligible voters to vouch for other eligible voters who lacked proper ID. This helped:  <ul> <li>Indigenous peoples whose addresses might not match government records</li> <li>Students without current local ID</li> <li>Homeless people lacking fixed addresses</li> <li>Seniors with difficulty obtaining current ID</li> <li>Recent immigrants navigating bureaucratic processes</li> </ul> Why are electronic tabulators being banned?  The ban on electronic vote counting has no legitimate justification. Electronic tabulators:  <ul> <li>Increase accuracy by eliminating human counting errors</li> <li>Speed up results providing faster, more reliable reporting</li> <li>Save money by reducing staffing needs</li> <li>Maintain paper trails for audit purposes</li> </ul>  The real purpose is to create doubt about election results and make voting more difficult.  Will these changes affect me personally?  The changes could affect you if:  <ul> <li>You're Indigenous and live on a reserve</li> <li>You're a student without local ID</li> <li>You've moved recently and your ID doesn't reflect your current address</li> <li>You're homeless or have unstable housing</li> <li>You're elderly and have difficulty maintaining current ID</li> <li>You care about election integrity and want accurate, efficient vote counting</li> </ul>"},{"location":"faq/#about-municipal-elections","title":"About Municipal Elections","text":"Why is allowing political parties in municipal elections bad?  Municipal politics has traditionally been non-partisan because:  <ul> <li>Local issues (roads, water, garbage) don't follow party lines</li> <li>Community solutions work better than ideological positions</li> <li>Councillors can focus on neighborhoods rather than party discipline</li> <li>Decision-making can be collaborative rather than adversarial</li> </ul> How will this change my local election?  Expect to see:  <ul> <li>Candidates aligned with UCP or NDP rather than running independently</li> <li>Corporate money flowing into local campaigns</li> <li>Provincial politics imported into local issues</li> <li>Community consensus replaced by partisan division</li> </ul> What about small towns and rural areas?  Small communities will be particularly harmed:  <ul> <li>Local candidates must now choose provincial political sides</li> <li>Community issues become subject to party politics</li> <li>Traditional local leadership is undermined by partisan requirements</li> <li>Outside money influences local decisions</li> </ul>"},{"location":"faq/#about-the-opposition","title":"About the Opposition","text":"Who opposes Bill 54?  Opposition comes from across Alberta society:  <ul> <li>Indigenous Nations defending treaty rights and sovereignty</li> <li>Municipal leaders protecting local autonomy</li> <li>Labour organizations defending workers' political rights</li> <li>Civil liberties groups protecting democratic rights</li> <li>Environmental organizations opposing corporate capture</li> <li>The Chief Electoral Officer warning about harm to election integrity</li> </ul> What are Indigenous Nations saying?  Indigenous leaders have been clear that Bill 54 threatens:  <ul> <li>Treaty rights that cannot be subject to provincial referendums</li> <li>Indigenous sovereignty that predates provincial authority</li> <li>Federal obligations that provinces cannot override</li> <li>Constitutional protections that must be respected</li> </ul> What do municipalities say?  Municipal leaders oppose the legislation because it:  <ul> <li>Undermines local autonomy and community self-governance</li> <li>Forces partisan politics on traditionally non-partisan elections</li> <li>Increases election costs by banning efficient counting methods</li> <li>Opens local politics to corporate influence</li> </ul>"},{"location":"faq/#about-taking-action","title":"About Taking Action","text":"What can I do as an individual?  You can:  <ul> <li>Contact your MLA and demand they oppose Bill 54's implementation</li> <li>Join organizations fighting for democratic rights</li> <li>Educate others about the legislation's harmful impacts</li> <li>Support candidates committed to reversing the legislation</li> <li>Volunteer for democratic advocacy organizations</li> </ul> Is it too late since the bill is already law?  No! There are many ways to continue fighting:  <ul> <li>Legal challenges in the courts</li> <li>Electoral action supporting candidates who will reverse the law</li> <li>Community organizing to minimize the harm</li> <li>Public education to build opposition for future action</li> </ul> How can I help with voter education?  You can:  <ul> <li>Share information about new voting requirements</li> <li>Help people understand how to meet ID requirements</li> <li>Volunteer with voter registration drives</li> <li>Support organizations doing voter education work</li> </ul> What organizations should I support?  Consider supporting:  <ul> <li>Alberta Federation of Labour (workers' rights)</li> <li>Indigenous political organizations (treaty rights)</li> <li>Alberta Civil Liberties Research Centre (civil rights)</li> <li>Municipal associations (local democracy)</li> <li>Environmental groups (fighting corporate capture)</li> </ul>"},{"location":"faq/#about-the-broader-context","title":"About the Broader Context","text":"Is this happening elsewhere?  Yes, similar attacks on democracy are occurring:  <ul> <li>United States: Voter suppression and unlimited corporate spending</li> <li>Other provinces: Various restrictions on democratic participation</li> <li>Internationally: Authoritarian movements using similar tactics</li> </ul> What's the connection to other UCP policies?  Bill 54 is part of a broader authoritarian pattern:  <ul> <li>Bill 20: Provincial control over municipalities</li> <li>Labour restrictions: Weakening unions and workers' rights</li> <li>Environmental suppression: Restricting activism and protest</li> <li>Healthcare privatization: Reducing public democratic control</li> </ul> What does this have to do with separation?  Bill 54 makes it easier to put separation questions on the ballot, which:  <ul> <li>Threatens Indigenous treaty rights with the federal Crown</li> <li>Creates uncertainty about federal constitutional protections</li> <li>Distracts from real issues like healthcare and cost of living</li> <li>Serves the UCP's political interests rather than Albertans' needs</li> </ul>"},{"location":"faq/#about-solutions","title":"About Solutions","text":"What would good democratic reform look like?  Real democratic reform would include:  <ul> <li>Public financing of campaigns to level the playing field</li> <li>Expanded voting access making it easier for all eligible voters</li> <li>Proportional representation ensuring all voices are heard</li> <li>Protected municipal autonomy from provincial interference</li> <li>Strengthened oversight of electoral processes</li> </ul> Can these changes be reversed?  Yes, but it requires:  <ul> <li>Electoral success by candidates committed to democratic reform</li> <li>Sustained organizing by civil society organizations</li> <li>Legal challenges to unconstitutional provisions</li> <li>Public pressure demanding better from government</li> </ul> What can we learn from other places?  Successful democratic reform elsewhere has included:  <ul> <li>Participatory budgeting giving communities control over spending</li> <li>Citizens' assemblies involving ordinary people in policy-making</li> <li>Proportional representation ensuring fair electoral outcomes</li> <li>Campaign finance reform reducing the influence of big money</li> </ul>"},{"location":"faq/#getting-involved","title":"Getting Involved","text":"I'm new to politics. Where do I start?  Start by:  <ul> <li>Learning about the issues through our resources</li> <li>Contacting your elected representatives</li> <li>Joining a local organization aligned with your values</li> <li>Attending community meetings and events</li> </ul> I don't have much time. What's the most important thing I can do?  If you only have time for one thing:  <ul> <li>Vote in every election and help others vote</li> <li>Share information about democratic issues with your networks</li> <li>Contact your MLA about specific concerns</li> <li>Support organizations doing democratic advocacy work</li> </ul> I want to do more. How can I get deeply involved?  For deeper involvement:  <ul> <li>Join the board or volunteer committee of a democratic organization</li> <li>Run for office yourself at any level</li> <li>Organize in your workplace, community, or social networks</li> <li>Donate regularly to organizations fighting for democracy</li> </ul> <p>Don't see your question answered here? Contact us through our social media channels or community networks. We're always happy to provide more information about defending democracy in Alberta.</p>"},{"location":"getting-started/","title":"Getting Started: Defending Democracy in Alberta","text":""},{"location":"getting-started/#understanding-the-threat","title":"Understanding the Threat","text":"<p>The UCP government under Danielle Smith has launched an unprecedented attack on democratic institutions in Alberta. Bill 54, along with other authoritarian legislation like Bill 20, represents a fundamental threat to:</p> <ul> <li>Your right to vote and have that vote counted fairly</li> <li>Equal representation free from corporate influence</li> <li>Local democratic control over community decisions</li> <li>Workers' collective political voice through unions</li> </ul>"},{"location":"getting-started/#immediate-actions-you-can-take","title":"Immediate Actions You Can Take","text":""},{"location":"getting-started/#1-educate-yourself-and-others","title":"1. \ud83d\udcda Educate Yourself and Others","text":"<p>Read the Evidence:</p> <ul> <li>Review our comprehensive archive of documentation</li> <li>Focus on sources that speak to your interests (municipal politics, Indigenous rights, workers' rights, etc.)</li> <li>Understand how these changes affect your community specifically</li> </ul> <p>Share Information:</p> <ul> <li>Post articles from our archive on social media</li> <li>Email links to friends, family, and colleagues</li> <li>Discuss these issues at community gatherings</li> <li>Write letters to local newspapers</li> </ul>"},{"location":"getting-started/#2-contact-your-representatives","title":"2. \u2709\ufe0f Contact Your Representatives","text":"<p>Your MLA: Find your MLA at assembly.ab.ca and:</p> <ul> <li>Call their office during business hours</li> <li>Email with specific concerns about Bill 54</li> <li>Request a meeting to discuss democratic rights</li> <li>Ask them to publicly oppose anti-democratic legislation</li> </ul> <p>Municipal Representatives:</p> <ul> <li>Contact your mayor and city/county councillors</li> <li>Attend council meetings during public comment periods</li> <li>Ask them to pass resolutions opposing Bill 54</li> <li>Support municipal leaders defending local autonomy</li> </ul> <p>Federal Representatives:</p> <ul> <li>Contact your MP about the democratic crisis in Alberta</li> <li>Ask for federal intervention if Alberta undermines electoral integrity</li> </ul>"},{"location":"getting-started/#3-join-the-movement","title":"3. \ud83e\udd1d Join the Movement","text":"<p>Connect with Organizations:</p> <ul> <li>Labour unions fighting for workers' political rights</li> <li>Indigenous organizations defending treaty rights and sovereignty  </li> <li>Municipal associations opposing provincial interference</li> <li>Civil liberties groups protecting democratic rights</li> <li>Environmental organizations facing government suppression</li> <li>Community groups working on social justice issues</li> </ul> <p>Attend Events:</p> <ul> <li>Public forums and town halls</li> <li>Protest rallies and demonstrations</li> <li>Union meetings and solidarity events</li> <li>Municipal council meetings</li> <li>Community organization gatherings</li> </ul>"},{"location":"getting-started/#4-electoral-action","title":"4. \ud83d\uddf3\ufe0f Electoral Action","text":"<p>Prepare for Elections:</p> <ul> <li>Ensure you're registered to vote</li> <li>Help others get registered</li> <li>Volunteer for democratic candidates</li> <li>Support candidates who oppose Bill 54</li> <li>Consider running for office yourself</li> </ul> <p>Support Democracy-Friendly Candidates: Look for candidates who commit to:</p> <ul> <li>Reversing Bill 54's anti-democratic provisions</li> <li>Expanding voting access</li> <li>Getting corporate money out of politics</li> <li>Strengthening electoral oversight</li> <li>Protecting municipal autonomy</li> </ul>"},{"location":"getting-started/#long-term-strategies","title":"Long-Term Strategies","text":""},{"location":"getting-started/#build-community-power","title":"Build Community Power","text":"<p>Organize in Your Neighborhood:</p> <ul> <li>Form or join community associations</li> <li>Organize informal political discussion groups</li> <li>Host house parties to discuss democratic issues</li> <li>Create mutual aid networks</li> </ul> <p>Workplace Organizing:</p> <ul> <li>Support union drives and collective bargaining</li> <li>Advocate for political action in your union</li> <li>Organize workplace discussions about democratic rights</li> <li>Support workers facing political repression</li> </ul>"},{"location":"getting-started/#support-independent-media","title":"Support Independent Media","text":"<p>Share and Fund:</p> <ul> <li>Support journalists covering the democracy crisis</li> <li>Share articles from independent Alberta media</li> <li>Subscribe to publications doing investigative reporting</li> <li>Fund citizen journalism and community media</li> </ul>"},{"location":"getting-started/#legal-and-policy-action","title":"Legal and Policy Action","text":"<p>Support Legal Challenges:</p> <ul> <li>Donate to organizations challenging anti-democratic laws</li> <li>Attend court hearings when possible</li> <li>Amplify legal challenges through social media</li> </ul> <p>Policy Advocacy:</p> <ul> <li>Submit written comments on legislation</li> <li>Participate in government consultations</li> <li>Develop alternative policy proposals</li> <li>Support think tanks promoting democratic reform</li> </ul>"},{"location":"getting-started/#resources-for-different-communities","title":"Resources for Different Communities","text":""},{"location":"getting-started/#for-workers-and-union-members","title":"For Workers and Union Members","text":"<ul> <li>Contact your union leadership about political action</li> <li>Attend union meetings to discuss Bill 54</li> <li>Support union political education programs</li> <li>Advocate for stronger labour-community alliances</li> </ul>"},{"location":"getting-started/#for-students","title":"For Students","text":"<ul> <li>Organize on campus around democratic issues</li> <li>Connect with student unions and advocacy groups</li> <li>Use student media to raise awareness</li> <li>Participate in youth political organizations</li> </ul>"},{"location":"getting-started/#for-parents-and-families","title":"For Parents and Families","text":"<ul> <li>Discuss democratic values with children</li> <li>Engage with school councils and parent groups</li> <li>Support civic education in schools</li> <li>Model democratic participation</li> </ul>"},{"location":"getting-started/#for-indigenous-community-members","title":"For Indigenous Community Members","text":"<ul> <li>Connect with First Nations and M\u00e9tis political organizations</li> <li>Support Indigenous sovereignty and treaty rights</li> <li>Participate in Indigenous-led resistance to Bill 54</li> <li>Build alliances between Indigenous and non-Indigenous democrats</li> </ul>"},{"location":"getting-started/#for-seniors","title":"For Seniors","text":"<ul> <li>Share your experience of democratic struggles</li> <li>Engage with seniors' organizations</li> <li>Mentor younger activists</li> <li>Use your time and resources to support the movement</li> </ul>"},{"location":"getting-started/#building-solidarity","title":"Building Solidarity","text":"<p>The fight for democracy in Alberta requires unity across different communities:</p> <ul> <li>Workers and business owners who believe in fair elections</li> <li>Indigenous and non-Indigenous people defending treaty rights</li> <li>Urban and rural communities opposing centralized control</li> <li>Recent immigrants and multi-generational Albertans supporting inclusive democracy</li> <li>People of all political backgrounds who value democratic institutions</li> </ul>"},{"location":"getting-started/#next-steps","title":"Next Steps","text":"<ol> <li>Start with one action today - whether it's reading an article, making a phone call, or sharing information</li> <li>Commit to regular engagement - democracy requires sustained effort, not just one-time actions</li> <li>Find your community - connect with others who share your values and concerns</li> <li>Keep learning - stay informed about ongoing threats and opportunities</li> <li>Take care of yourself - democratic work is marathon, not a sprint</li> </ol>"},{"location":"getting-started/#remember","title":"Remember","text":"<p>Democracy is not a spectator sport. It requires active participation from all of us. The UCP is counting on public apathy and resignation to advance their authoritarian agenda. </p> <p>But history shows us that when ordinary people organize together, they can defeat even the most powerful interests. The civil rights movement, the labour movement, the women's suffrage movement - all were built by people like you taking action in their communities.</p> <p>The time to act is now. The future of Alberta democracy depends on what we do today.</p> <p>For more information, explore our archive or contact local democratic organizations in your community.</p>"},{"location":"resources/","title":"Democracy Action Toolkit","text":"<p>Ready-to-Use Resources for Defending Democracy</p> <p>Everything you need to take action: social media content, contact info, legal resources, and tools to build your own democratic movement using our open-source platform.</p>"},{"location":"resources/#quick-action-guide","title":"Quick Action Guide","text":"\u270d\ufe0f Contribute to the Fight <p>Join our collaborative effort. Edit this site, add resources, share your expertise. No technical experience required - full training provided.</p> Start Contributing \u2192 \ud83d\udcf1 Ready-to-Share Content <p>Copy and paste social media posts for Twitter/X, Facebook, and Instagram. Spread awareness about Bill 54 and democratic issues instantly.</p> Get Social Content \u2192 \ud83d\udcde Take Direct Action <p>Contact your representatives, find allied organizations, and access legal resources to defend democratic participation.</p> Take Action \u2192"},{"location":"resources/#stay-connected-and-informed","title":"Stay Connected and Informed","text":"<p>The fight for democracy requires sustained effort and coordination. Join our network to stay informed about UCP tactics and organized resistance efforts.</p> \ud83d\udce7 Join Our Democracy Network <p>Get updates on Bill 54, organizing opportunities, and democratic resistance efforts across Alberta.</p> Subscribe to Updates Read Bill 54 Analysis Browse Evidence Archive New to the Fight?"},{"location":"resources/#replicate-this-platform","title":"Replicate This Platform","text":"<p>Changemaker Lite is the open-source platform powering this website. You can clone the complete setup - documentation tools, email campaigns, automation workflows - and rebuild it for your own organization in minutes.</p> Platform Documentation Git Repository Contribute Guide"},{"location":"resources/#social-media-content","title":"Social Media Content","text":"<p>Copy these posts with one click and customize them for your social media channels:</p>"},{"location":"resources/#twitterx-posts","title":"Twitter/X Posts","text":"<p>\ud83d\udea8 Bill 54 gives the UCP power to fire elected municipal officials without cause. This isn't governance - it's authoritarianism. Albertans deserve democracy, not dictators. #BillNo54 #AbDemocracy #UCPAuthoritarianism</p> Copy <p>\ud83d\udcde TAKE ACTION: Call your MLA today about Bill 54. Tell them you won't stand for attacks on municipal democracy. Find your rep: assembly.ab.ca #AbDemocracy #BillNo54</p> Copy"},{"location":"resources/#facebook-posts","title":"Facebook Posts","text":"<p>URGENT: The UCP's Bill 54 would fundamentally change how democracy works in Alberta. This bill would give the provincial government unprecedented power to fire elected municipal officials, override local decisions, and impose their will on communities across Alberta. This isn't about left vs right - it's about democracy vs authoritarianism.</p> Copy"},{"location":"resources/#instagram-captions","title":"Instagram Captions","text":"<p>Democracy isn't a spectator sport \ud83d\uddf3\ufe0f Bill 54 would let the UCP government fire YOUR elected municipal representatives. The people YOU voted for could be removed by politicians YOU didn't elect. We can't let this stand. #BillNo54 #AbDemocracy #LocalDemocracy #Democracy</p> Copy"},{"location":"resources/#direct-action","title":"Direct Action","text":""},{"location":"resources/#contact-your-representatives","title":"Contact Your Representatives","text":"\ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f Contact Your MLA <ul> <li>Find Your MLA - Alberta Legislature Directory</li> <li>Talking Points: Oppose Bill 54, defend municipal democracy, respect local elections</li> <li>Best Practice: Call during business hours (9am-5pm), be polite but firm</li> </ul> \ud83e\udd1d Allied Organizations <ul> <li>Alberta Federation of Labour: afl.org</li> <li>Canadian Civil Liberties Association: ccla.org</li> <li>Alberta Urban Municipalities Association: auma.ca</li> <li>Rural Municipalities of Alberta: rmalberta.com</li> </ul> \u2696\ufe0f Legal Resources <ul> <li>Legal Aid Alberta: legalaid.ab.ca | 1-866-845-3425</li> <li>Canadian Charter of Rights: Protects democratic participation</li> <li>Municipal Government Act: Defines local democracy in Alberta</li> <li>Emergency: If facing legal issues, contact Legal Aid immediately</li> </ul>"},{"location":"resources/#find-all-your-representatives","title":"Find All Your Representatives","text":"\ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f Provincial (MLA) <ul> <li>Find Your MLA</li> <li>Contact by phone, email, or in person</li> <li>Attend town halls and public meetings</li> </ul> \ud83c\udfd8\ufe0f Municipal <ul> <li>Urban Municipalities</li> <li>Rural Municipalities</li> <li>Check your city/county website for contact info</li> </ul> \ud83c\udde8\ud83c\udde6 Federal (MP) <ul> <li>Find Your MP</li> <li>Raise concerns about provincial overreach</li> <li>Request federal intervention if needed</li> </ul>"},{"location":"vision/","title":"Vision","text":"Another Alberta is Possible <p>A province where democracy isn't just for the wealthy few, but belongs to everyone who calls Alberta home</p> Join the Movement Learn More \ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f Democracy Under Attack <p>The UCP's Bill 54 is just the beginning. While they restrict voting access and silence opposition voices, we envision an Alberta where democracy is expanded, not eroded. Where every worker, student, immigrant, and Indigenous person has not just a voice, but real power in shaping our collective future.</p>"},{"location":"vision/#our-vision-true-democratic-participation","title":"Our Vision: True Democratic Participation","text":"\ud83d\uddf3\ufe0f Universal Voting Rights <p>If you live here, work here, or pay taxes here - you vote here.</p> <p>No more arbitrary citizenship requirements. Permanent residents, temporary workers, students, and all community members get a say in the decisions that affect their daily lives.</p> \u2692\ufe0f Workplace Democracy <p>Democracy doesn't end at the factory gate.</p> <p>Worker cooperatives, union representation on corporate boards, and employee ownership programs. When workers control their workplaces, they control their communities.</p> \ud83c\udfd8\ufe0f Community Power <p>Real local control over local issues.</p> <p>Participatory budgeting, community assemblies, and neighbourhood councils with actual decision-making power over housing, transit, and development.</p> \ud83d\udce7 Build the Movement <p>Join thousands working toward democratic socialism in Alberta</p> I want updates on democratic organizing Join Us"},{"location":"vision/#from-exclusion-to-inclusion","title":"From Exclusion to Inclusion","text":"<p>While the UCP works to restrict who can vote and limit democratic participation, we fight for the opposite: a democracy that includes everyone affected by political decisions.</p> \ud83d\udccb Automatic Voter Registration <p>Register every Albertan automatically when they turn 18, get a health card, file taxes, or establish residency. No bureaucratic barriers.</p> \ud83c\udfe2 Workplace Voting <p>Polling stations in every major workplace. Paid time off to vote. Make it easier to participate than not to participate.</p> \ud83c\udfe0 Resident Voting Rights <p>Municipal voting rights for all residents regardless of citizenship status. If you live in the community, you get a say in how it's run.</p> \ud83d\udcf1 Digital Democracy <p>Secure online voting options, digital town halls, and mobile polling for rural and remote communities.</p> \ud83d\udde3\ufe0f Multilingual Access <p>Ballots and voting information in all community languages. Democracy shouldn't require perfect English.</p> \u267f Universal Access <p>Every polling station fully accessible. Home voting for seniors and disabled community members. No one left behind.</p>"},{"location":"vision/#economic-democracy","title":"Economic Democracy","text":"<p>True democracy requires economic democracy. When a small elite controls the wealth, they control the politics.</p> \ud83c\udfed The Problem: Corporate Control <p>Giant corporations and wealthy donors buy elections while working families struggle to afford housing, healthcare, and education. This isn't democracy - it's oligarchy.</p> \ud83e\udd1d The Solution: Worker Ownership <p>When workers own businesses collectively, profits stay in communities. When workers have power, they vote for policies that benefit working families, not just shareholders.</p> \ud83c\udfed Cooperative Development <p>Public funding for worker cooperatives and employee stock ownership plans. Transform capitalism from within.</p> \ud83c\udfe6 Public Banking <p>A provincial bank owned by and accountable to Albertans, not Wall Street shareholders. Looking at you ATB.</p> \u26a1 Energy Democracy <p>Community-owned renewable energy projects. Let communities profit from their own resources.</p> \ud83c\udfe0 Housing as a Right <p>Public housing development, tenant cooperatives, and community land trusts to end housing as a commodity.</p>"},{"location":"vision/#indigenous-sovereignty-solidarity","title":"Indigenous Sovereignty &amp; Solidarity","text":"<p>No democracy in Alberta is legitimate without Indigenous sovereignty. True reconciliation means sharing power, not just consulting.</p> \ud83d\udeab Colonial Democracy <p>The UCP's \"democracy\" continues 150+ years of colonial domination. Bill 54 affects Indigenous communities who were never consulted about its impacts on their governance and rights.</p> \ud83e\udeb6 Indigenous Leadership <p>Guaranteed Indigenous representation in provincial government. Recognition of Indigenous law and governance. Land back and resource sharing agreements that respect Indigenous sovereignty.</p>"},{"location":"vision/#youth-power-climate-justice","title":"Youth Power &amp; Climate Justice","text":"<p>The future belongs to young people. They deserve the biggest say in creating it.</p> \ud83d\uddf3\ufe0f Votes at 16 <p>Lower the voting age to 16 for all elections. Young people work, pay taxes, and live with political consequences longer than anyone.</p> \ud83c\udfeb School Democracy <p>Student representation on school boards. Student unions with real power over curriculum and school policy.</p> \ud83c\udf0d Climate Assemblies <p>Citizens' assemblies with youth leadership to plan Alberta's just transition to renewable energy.</p> \ud83d\udcbc Youth Job Guarantee <p>Public employment programs focused on climate action, care work, and community building.</p>"},{"location":"vision/#from-vision-to-reality","title":"From Vision to Reality\ud83d\udd25 This isn't just a dream - it's a roadmapTake Action Today","text":"<p>Every victory for democracy started with people who refused to accept the status quo. The eight-hour work day, women's suffrage, Indigenous rights - all won through organized struggle by ordinary people who demanded something better.</p> <p>Building democratic socialism requires all of us. Find your way to contribute:</p> \ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f Electoral Action <p>Support candidates who champion expanded democracy and workers' rights. Run for office yourself.</p> Get Involved \u2692\ufe0f Labor Organizing <p>Join or help organize unions, worker cooperatives, and tenant unions in your community.</p> Find Resources \ud83c\udfd8\ufe0f Community Building <p>Start neighborhood councils, mutual aid networks, and community gardens. Democracy begins at home.</p> Read Stories \ud83d\udce2 Spread the Vision <p>Share this vision with friends, family, and neighbors. Help others imagine what's possible.</p> Share This Page <p>\"Another world is possible. She is walking toward us on a quiet day, and I can hear her breathing.\" - Arundhati Roy</p> <p>The choice is ours: accept the UCP's vision of restricted democracy for the few, or fight for expanded democracy for all. Which Alberta do you choose?</p>"},{"location":"archive/","title":"Archive: The Evidence Against Bill 54","text":""},{"location":"archive/#the-ucps-anti-democratic-agenda-exposed","title":"The UCP's Anti-Democratic Agenda Exposed","text":"<p>This archive contains comprehensive documentation of the UCP government's systematic assault on democratic institutions in Alberta. Bill 54 (the Election Statutes Amendment Act, 2025) represents one of the most significant threats to democratic participation in Alberta's history.</p>"},{"location":"archive/#what-youll-find-here","title":"What You'll Find Here","text":"<p>Our archive includes:</p>"},{"location":"archive/#news-coverage","title":"\ud83d\udcf0 News Coverage","text":"<p>Mainstream media reports documenting the scope and impact of Bill 54's anti-democratic provisions.</p>"},{"location":"archive/#government-sources","title":"\ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f Government Sources","text":"<p>The UCP's own statements and press releases, revealing their true intentions behind the legislation.</p>"},{"location":"archive/#expert-analysis","title":"\ud83d\udcca Expert Analysis","text":"<p>Academic and professional commentary exposing the authoritarian nature of these changes.</p>"},{"location":"archive/#community-opposition","title":"\ud83c\udfd8\ufe0f Community Opposition","text":"<p>Responses from Indigenous Nations, municipalities, unions, and civil society organizations.</p>"},{"location":"archive/#legal-concerns","title":"\u2696\ufe0f Legal Concerns","text":"<p>Analysis from legal experts and the Chief Electoral Officer about the bill's impact on election integrity.</p>"},{"location":"archive/#key-themes-in-the-evidence","title":"Key Themes in the Evidence","text":""},{"location":"archive/#voter-suppression","title":"Voter Suppression","text":"<ul> <li>Elimination of vouching systems that help eligible voters</li> <li>Barriers to accessible voting for marginalized communities  </li> <li>Restrictions designed to reduce turnout among likely opposition voters</li> </ul>"},{"location":"archive/#corporate-capture","title":"Corporate Capture","text":"<ul> <li>Reintroduction of corporate political donations with $5,000 aggregate maximum</li> <li>Restrictions on union political activity</li> <li>Weakened oversight of election finance violations</li> </ul>"},{"location":"archive/#centralization-of-power","title":"Centralization of Power","text":"<ul> <li>Introduction of political parties to municipal elections</li> <li>Reduced independence of electoral officials</li> <li>Weakened investigative powers for election law enforcement</li> </ul>"},{"location":"archive/#attack-on-local-democracy","title":"Attack on Local Democracy","text":"<ul> <li>Provincial interference in municipal governance</li> <li>Undermining of community-based decision making</li> <li>Partisan politicization of previously non-partisan local elections</li> </ul>"},{"location":"archive/#the-broader-pattern","title":"The Broader Pattern","text":"<p>Bill 54 is not an isolated incident\u2014it's part of a broader authoritarian agenda that includes:</p> <ul> <li>Bill 20: Giving cabinet power to fire mayors and overturn municipal bylaws</li> <li>Attacks on public healthcare and education</li> <li>Suppression of environmental activism</li> <li>Weakening of workers' rights</li> </ul>"},{"location":"archive/#how-to-use-this-archive","title":"How to Use This Archive","text":"<p>Each document in our archive provides crucial evidence of the UCP's anti-democratic agenda. We encourage you to:</p> <ol> <li>Read widely across different source types</li> <li>Share specific articles that resonate with your community</li> <li>Use this evidence when contacting elected officials</li> <li>Cite these sources in letters to editors and social media</li> </ol> <p>The evidence is overwhelming: the UCP is systematically undermining democratic institutions in Alberta. This archive provides the documentation needed to fight back.</p> <p>The contents of this archive are subject to updates as new evidence emerges of the UCP's continuing assault on Alberta democracy.</p>"},{"location":"archive/Alberta%20Government%20tables%20changes%20to%20the%20election%20act/","title":"Alberta Government tables changes to the election act","text":"<p>Alberta Government tables changes to the election act</p> <p>Multiple changes introduced to the Alberta Elections act and other legislation</p> <p></p> <p>Danielle Smith[Listen to this article</p> <p>00:05:12</p> <p>](https://www.bpmcdn.com/files/texttospeech/7975596-7738590a-4f2e-4f7c-bcf2-07834aee7982.mp3)</p> <p>The Government of Alberta has introduced new legislation which it believes will strengthen democracy and result in fair and quick election results.</p> <p>Bill 54, the Election Statutes Amendment Act, 2025, was tabled in the Alberta legislature on April 29.</p> <p>Changes included in the legislation are the banning of electronic tabulators and other automated voting machines, the elimination of vouching at voting stations, the requirement of unofficial vote counts to be completed within 12 hours of polls closing, a requirement for voters to cast their ballot in their home constituency, increasing access to special ballots, making it easier to recall elected officials, and improving the process for citizens to get petitions going.</p> <p>\"I believe that democracy thrives when people trust the process,\" said Premier Danielle Smith, via a media release. \"These changes would make elections at every level in Alberta more accessible and transparent while protecting their integrity, ensuring confidence in the outcomes. We are also creating more opportunities for Albertans to be involved in direct democracy and to have their say on issues that matter to them.\u201d</p> <p>Vouching is the process of having another confirmed voter vouch for someone's identification as a registered voter, even if they aren't carrying any documentation. Instead of allowing vouching, the amended legislation will allow for an expanded array of documentation which registered voters can use to prove residence.</p> <p>While not routinely used in Alberta, the updated legislation completely bans the use of electronic voting machines and online voting, opting instead for the traditional paper and pen, hand-counted ballots. The legislation does allow the use of voting assistance machines for those with disabilities, provided it is not connected to the internet and results in a paper, hand-counted ballot.</p> <p>Another change being made to the legislation is a requirement that 95 per cent of voters in an electoral division be within 50 kilometres of a voting place and that every population centre with more than 1,000 electors has, at minimum, a voting place on election day and at least one day for advanced voting. Population centres with 2,500 or more residents will be open on election day and on all advance voting days.</p> <p>Under the current legislation, special ballots may be delivered until the end of election day. With the amendments, special ballots must be received by the Friday before the election and begin being counted three hours before the polls close.</p> <p>The legislation also makes some changes for political parties and candidates under the Election Act.</p> <p>Under existing legislation, only candidates or their official representatives can inspect documents or request a judicial recount; under the amended legislation, political parties may inspect all documents, scrutineers may observe every aspect of the voting process, and political parties may begin and participate in judicial recounts.</p> <p>Other notable amendments being made include changes to the Citizen Initiative Act, which the general public can use to trigger petitions.</p> <p>Under the existing legislation, an initiative must gather signatures from 10 per cent of the registered voters province-wide for legislative and policy initiatives and 20 per cent of registered voters in two-thirds of the constituencies for constitutional initiatives in a 90-day period.</p> <p>With the amended legislation, the threshold for success will be changed to 10 per cent of the number of eligible voters who voted in the last general election in 120 days.</p> <p>\"When we were talking about looking at the thresholds for both recall and citizen initiative, one of the reasons why we were discussing changing it is that you want a bar that's high, but you don't want a bar that's impossible to achieve,\" said Smith, during the press conference announcing the amendments. \"We saw with some of the recall initiatives that took place at the municipal level, the bar was impossible to achieve. So we wanted to try to create something that was a little bit more reasonable.\"</p> <p>Once a petition is successfully submitted, the chief electoral officer will have 30 days to decide if the requirements have been met, and if so, 60 days to submit the matter to the courts for further disposition.</p> <p>One piece of legislation getting substantial work is the Recall Act.</p> <p>With the new amendments, an applicant submitting under the act will be limited to 100 words explaining the reasons that the elected official should be recalled, down from 200, and the elected official will be given seven days to respond.</p> <p>Should the recall petition be allowed to proceed, the applicant will have four months to gain the signatures on the petition. Recalls under the new rules will not be allowed within 12 months of someone being elected or within 12 months of a set general election.</p> <p>Finally, a change being made to the Local Authorities Election Act will require all municipal and school board candidates, and third-party advertisers, to report campaign expenses by Sept. 30 of an election year, where elections are typically held in October.</p> <ul> <li>See a typo/mistake?</li> <li>Have a story/tip?</li> </ul> <p>About the Author: Kevin Sabo</p> <p>Kevin Sabo has been a resident of the Castor area for the last 12 years, first moving to the area in his previous career as an EMT.</p> <p>Read more</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Alberta%20bill%20seeks%20to%20reintroduce%20union%2C%20corporate%20contributions%2C%20ban%20tabulators%20and%20lower%20recall%20threshold/","title":"Alberta bill seeks to reintroduce union, corporate contributions, ban tabulators and lower recall threshold","text":"<p>Alberta bill seeks to reintroduce union, corporate contributions, ban tabulators and lower recall threshold</p> <p>Alberta is seeking to overhaul how its elections are administered including reintroducing union and corporate spending, increasing election spending limits, and banning vote tabulators as well as change rules around citizen initiatives and recall.</p> <p>Bill 54: the Election Statutes Amendment Act, 2025 was tabled in the legislature by Justice Minister Mickey Amery on Tuesday.</p> <p>\u201cI believe democracy thrives when people trust the process,\u201d Premier Danielle Smith told reporters about the bill.</p> <p>She said the timing of the announcement, coming the day after the federal Liberals won Monday\u2019s election, was coincidental.</p> <p>\u201cWe were going to introduce it regardless of what the outcome of the election was. It just so happens that this is the timing now.\u201d</p> <p>The bill spells out more than 50 proposed changes to rules around elections and would amend seven government acts, some of which mirror the changes made to municipal elections announced last year via Bill 20.</p> <p>Opposition justice critic Irfan Sabir said the new legislature was designed to appeal to the governing UCP\u2019s supporter base.</p> <p>\u201cThis act is weakening our democracy. This is bringing back dark money into our politics.\u201d</p> <p>Here are some of the major changes coming via Bill 54:</p> <p></p> <p>Headline News</p> <p>Get the latest headlines, breaking news and columns.</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Alberta%20bill%20seeks%20to%20reintroduce%20union%2C%20corporate%20contributions%2C%20ban%20tabulators%20and%20lower%20recall%20threshold/#unions-and-corporate-donations","title":"Unions and corporate donations","text":"<p>If passed, the legislation would allow Alberta corporations and unions to make contributions to parties, constituency associations, leadership contests and third party advertisers, among others.</p> <p>Such contributions are prohibited under current rules in both provincial and federal elections.</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Alberta%20bill%20seeks%20to%20reintroduce%20union%2C%20corporate%20contributions%2C%20ban%20tabulators%20and%20lower%20recall%20threshold/#election-spending-limits","title":"Election spending limits","text":"<p>The bill proposes changing the formula-based approach to provincial election spending limits to a limit of $5 million for each registered political party.</p> <p>Expense limits per candidate are set to rise to $75,000 from $60,800, and expense limits for parties in a byelection will grow to $75,000 from $28,000.</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Alberta%20bill%20seeks%20to%20reintroduce%20union%2C%20corporate%20contributions%2C%20ban%20tabulators%20and%20lower%20recall%20threshold/#recall-and-initiative","title":"Recall and initiative","text":"<p>The bill proposes lowering the signature thresholds for both citizen initiatives and recall.</p> <p>Currently, initiative petitions must have signatures from 10 per cent of registered voters provincewide for certain initiatives, rising to 20 per cent for others.</p> <p>The bill seeks to lower that bar to 10 per cent of the number of eligible voters who voted in the last election.</p> <p>Similarly, the bill seeks to make it easier to recall an MLA through a series of changes, including:</p> <ul> <li>Reducing the time limit for a recall petition from 18 months after an MLA is elected to 12 months</li> <li>Extending the time for signatures to be gathered from 60 days to 90 days</li> <li>Reducing the standard for a recall vote to be authorized from signatures from 40 per cent of the total number of electors to 60 per cent of the total number of electors who voted in the most recent election</li> </ul>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Alberta%20bill%20seeks%20to%20reintroduce%20union%2C%20corporate%20contributions%2C%20ban%20tabulators%20and%20lower%20recall%20threshold/#no-more-vote-anywhere-or-vouching-new-special-ballot-rules","title":"No more \u2018vote anywhere\u2019 or vouching, new special ballot rules","text":"<p>The bill would end the ability of voters in a provincial election to vote outside of their constituency at designated stations.</p> <p>The \u201cvote anywhere\u201d option has been credited with making voting more accessible and for boosting turnout.</p> <p>Following the 2023 election, officials also cited changes to how those ballots were counted as cause for election night delays in reporting results.</p> <p>The legislation also proposes to end the practice of vouching, where an eligible voter in the same voting area vouches for a voter without identification.</p> <p>It also seeks to amend rules around special ballots which are currently only available when a voter is unable to vote on the regular election day.</p> <p>Under the new legislation, special ballot use would be expanded and voters could use one without having to first give a reason.</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Alberta%20bill%20seeks%20to%20reintroduce%20union%2C%20corporate%20contributions%2C%20ban%20tabulators%20and%20lower%20recall%20threshold/#tabulator-ban","title":"Tabulator ban","text":"<p>Similar to municipal elections, the use of electronic vote tabulators will be banned for provincial elections.</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Alberta%20bill%20seeks%20to%20reintroduce%20union%2C%20corporate%20contributions%2C%20ban%20tabulators%20and%20lower%20recall%20threshold/#no-lengthy-ballots","title":"No lengthy ballots","text":"<p>The bill also proposed preventing a single official agent from acting on behalf of more than one independent candidate.</p> <p>During Monday\u2019s federal elections, voters in the Ottawa riding of Carleton had to navigate a field of 91 candidates on a ballot, including 83 independents all of whom listed the same individual as their official agent.</p> <p>mblack@postmedia.com</p> <p></p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Alberta%20overhauls%20election%20laws%20to%20allow%20corporate%20donations%2C%20change%20referendum%20thresholds%20%20CBC%20News/","title":"Alberta overhauls election laws to allow corporate donations, change referendum thresholds | CBC News","text":"<p>Alberta overhauls election laws to allow corporate donations, change referendum thresholds | CBC News</p> <p>Edmonton</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Alberta%20overhauls%20election%20laws%20to%20allow%20corporate%20donations%2C%20change%20referendum%20thresholds%20%20CBC%20News/#alberta-overhauls-election-laws-to-allow-corporate-donations-change-referendum-thresholds","title":"Alberta overhauls election laws to allow corporate donations, change referendum thresholds","text":"<p>The Alberta government wants to bring back corporate and union political donations, eliminate vouching for a voter\u2019s identity at election polling stations, and lower the threshold for recalls and referendums.</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Alberta%20overhauls%20election%20laws%20to%20allow%20corporate%20donations%2C%20change%20referendum%20thresholds%20%20CBC%20News/#bill-54-also-eliminates-vouching-and-prohibits-use-of-vote-tabulators","title":"Bill 54 also eliminates vouching and prohibits use of vote tabulators","text":"<p>Justice Minister Mickey Amery talks about Bill 54 Tuesday as Premier Danielle Smith listens. (Maxime Lamache/Radio Canada )</p> <p>The Alberta government wants to bring back corporate and union political donations, eliminate the process of vouching for a voter's identity at election polling stations, and lower the threshold for recalls and referendums.</p> <p>The measures are proposed in Bill 54, Election Statutes Amendment Act, 2025, tabled by Justice Minister Mickey Amery in the legislature Tuesday.</p> <p>The bill, which amends seven pieces of legislation including the Election Act, would also ban the use of electronic vote tabulators, a measure that was promised by Premier Danielle Smith's United Conservative government.</p> <p>Smith told a news conference that her government wants to make it easier for Albertans to express their political views.</p> <p>\"These changes build on the integrity, trust and openness that have always been at the heart of democracy and keep Alberta strong and free,\" she said.</p> <ul> <li>Alberta government unveils new rules for municipal political parties, donations</li> <li>MLAs pass bill banning corporate and union political donations</li> </ul> <p>The ban on corporate and union donations to political parties was in the first piece of legislation passed by Rachel Notley's NDP government in 2015.</p> <p>If passed, Bill 54 will allow these types of contributions to an aggregate maximum of $5,000 to parties, constituency associations, candidates and third-party political advertisers. The bill also sets a separate contribution limit of $5,000 for leadership candidates.</p> <p>Amery said there are differences for how the donations will be reported this time.</p> <p>\"All candidates have to account for where their money is coming from, who it's coming from and make sure that that is publicly disclosed to members of the public,\" he said in an interview with CBC News.</p> <p>\"Moreover, at this time the corporate donations, for example, are not tax deductible. And so that is an important component that differs, I think, from previous time.\"</p> <p>Last fall, the government passed legislation allowing corporate and union donations in municipal elections.</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Alberta%20overhauls%20election%20laws%20to%20allow%20corporate%20donations%2C%20change%20referendum%20thresholds%20%20CBC%20News/#recall-and-referendum-changes","title":"Recall and referendum changes","text":"<p>Currently, voters who lack proper identification can still vote if another eligible voter from their riding is able to vouch for them. Bill 54 will eliminate vouching but it expands the types of identification that can be used to prove someone lives in the electoral district and can vote.</p> <p>The Recall Act and the Citizens Initiative Act, passed by the UCP government in 2021, outlines the process by which citizens can initiate the recall of an elected MLA. People have since complained that the timeline and number of signatures required for a successful petition were too onerous.</p> <p>Bill 54 proposes lowering the signature threshold, and extending the signature collection period from 60 to 90 days for MLA recalls and from 90 to 120 days for a citizen's initiative or referendum.</p> <p>The number of signatures for an MLA recall would be 60 per cent of the number who voted in a riding in the most recent provincial election. The current threshold is 40 per cent of all eligible voters in that riding.</p> <p>The threshold for a referendum would be 10 per cent of people who voted in the last provincial election, compared to the current 10 per cent of all registered voters for legislative and policy referendums and 20 per cent of registered voters in two-thirds of Alberta ridings for constitutional questions.</p> <p>If the bill is passed, an MLA who is the subject of a recall petition could add a response to the reasons listed by the petitioner.</p> <p>A recall vote would be moved up to four months from the current six months if the petition is approved by the chief electoral officer.</p> <p>MLA Irfan Sabir, the NDP Opposition justice critic, said he is concerned the government is loosening the rules around referendums to whip up separatist discontent among their base.</p> <p>Sabir said he is worried that corporate donors will use a numbered company and make it more difficult to trace the source of a donation.</p> <p>\"I think elections should not be about who has more money or has deep pockets,\" Sabir said. \"Elections should be about ideas and broader participation from the public.\"</p> <p>The use of tabulator or electronic vote counting machines will be banned under Bill 54 so ballots will have to be counted by hand. The bill sets a deadline of 12 hours for the unofficial vote count to be completed.</p> <p>Other measures proposed in Bill 54 include:</p> <ul> <li>Requiring municipal councillors and school trustees to take an unpaid leave of absence when they run in a provincial election.</li> <li>Increasing spending limits for third-party advertisers from $182,000 to $500,000 in both the pre-writ and election periods.</li> <li>Allowing mail-in ballots for constitutional referendums. They are currently allowed for non-constitutional referendums.</li> <li>Giving the chief electoral officer the ability to hold referendum votes on First Nations and M\u00e9tis settlements at the same time as a municipal election.</li> <li>Requiring municipal and school board candidates to report their donations by Sept. 30, in advance of the October election. The requirement would also apply to third-party advertisers.</li> <li>Allow people to buy party memberships for family members without requiring a receipt if the purchase is under $50. Current rules allow people to buy only memberships for themselves.</li> </ul> <p></p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Alberta%20to%20make%20changes%20to%20bill%20proposing%20sweeping%20powers%20over%20municipalities%20%20%20Globalnews.ca/","title":"Alberta to make changes to bill proposing sweeping powers over municipalities  | Globalnews.ca","text":"<p>Alberta to make changes to bill proposing sweeping powers over municipalities  | Globalnews.ca</p> <p>Politics</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Alberta%20to%20make%20changes%20to%20bill%20proposing%20sweeping%20powers%20over%20municipalities%20%20%20Globalnews.ca/#alberta-to-make-changes-to-bill-proposing-sweeping-powers-over-municipalities","title":"Alberta to make changes to bill proposing sweeping powers over municipalities","text":"<p>Alberta Municipalities speaks out over province\u2019s Bill 20 to have more control over local politics</p> <p>The Alberta government says it will make amendments to a bill that would give cabinet unfettered power to fire mayors and councillors and overturn bylaws.</p> <p>Municipal Affairs Minister Ric McIver said in a statement Thursday that the government will introduce changes and implement rules surrounding how and when cabinet can overrule local governments.</p> <p>McIver said the province will work with municipalities on the amendments.</p> <p>The bill is before the legislature and has been criticized by municipal leaders as a severe overreach into municipal government affairs.</p> <p>\u201cWhat I would propose is, don\u2019t move ahead with Bill 20 at all. There\u2019s no need for it,\u201d Edmonton Mayor Amarjeet Sohi said Thursday.</p> <p>Sohi said he is pleased to hear McIver is responding to the criticism and concerns raised about the bill, and that he\u2019s open to discussing changes with those who have raised issues with it.</p> <p>\u201cIf there\u2019s a problem they want to solve I think the best way to do that is co-create legislation, not just impose legislation on municipalities,\u201d Sohi said. \u201cThis has been kind of a one-way street where we are being told what they are going to do instead of listening to us and engaging with us.\u201d</p> <p>Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek said she too is appreciative that the minister has indicated he wants to consult with municipalities, but added the legislation as it stands is a \u201cgreat overreach.\u201d</p> <p>\u201cI\u2019ve had a call with him. He reiterated that he will be engaging with us, so that\u2019s great. But I continue to see an issue with the idea of saying that someone could be removed in the public interest without defining what that means,\u201d Gondek said.</p> <p>\u201cIf they\u2019re truly interested in making sure that someone who\u2019s broken a law or misrepresented themselves or done something unethical is to be removed, then that language needs to be clear.\u201d</p> <p>Gondek also noted she is unclear how the consultation process is going to unfold.</p> <p>\u201cBill 20 comes with a whole lot of questions and right now there\u2019s not a lot of answers.\u201d</p> <p></p> <p>Alberta Municipalities \u2018caught off guard\u2019 by details of Bill 20</p> <p>Alberta Municipalities president Tyler Gandam has said members are concerned the proposed law would intimidate and silence legally elected officials who dare criticize the province.</p> <p>McIver said he wants to make it clear that the new powers in the bill would only be used as a last resort.</p> <p>He said the power to repeal municipal bylaws should be used only when those bylaws fall under areas of shared responsibility, such as health care, education, the provincial economy or public safety.</p> <p>Sohi went on to say that if the legislation does move forward, he believes it should be used only in the rarest of circumstances. He also believes any use of the bill should be discussed in the legislature, and not just within cabinet.</p> <p>\u201cCabinet decisions are not made in a transparent, open way and there\u2019s no accountability on cabinet. There is accountability in the legislature where people can ask questions around why a council member is being removed or why a duly-passed bylaw by a council is being repealed by the province,\u201d Sohi said.</p> <p>He also believes there is no need for political parties at a municipal level.</p> <p>\u201cLet people decide who they elect, and then let the local elected people make decisions on behalf of the constituents that have elected us.\u201d</p> <p>The Alberta NDP\u2019s critic for municipalities said rather than make amendments, the UCP needs to withdraw Bill 20 entirely.</p> <p>\u201cBill 20 is a threat to our democracy,\u201d Kyle Kasawski said in a statement.</p> <p>\u201cThis bill is another example of Smith\u2019s made-in-Alberta authoritarian approach to governing. The UCP wants to control everything, whether it be our universities, schools, health care, police force, pensions and now municipal councils.\u201d</p> <p>\u2014 with files from The Canadian Press</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Albertas%20chief%20electoral%20officer%20warns%20UCP%20proposed%20bill%20will%20hurt%20investigations%20-%20Globalnews.ca/","title":"Alberta\u2019s chief electoral officer warns UCP proposed bill will hurt investigations  | Globalnews.ca","text":"<p>Alberta\u2019s chief electoral officer warns UCP proposed bill will hurt investigations  | Globalnews.ca</p> <p>Politics</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Albertas%20chief%20electoral%20officer%20warns%20UCP%20proposed%20bill%20will%20hurt%20investigations%20-%20Globalnews.ca/#albertas-chief-electoral-officer-warns-ucp-proposed-bill-will-hurt-investigations","title":"Alberta\u2019s chief electoral officer warns UCP proposed bill will hurt investigations","text":"<p>Alberta proposes sweeping changes to provincial election laws</p> <p>Alberta\u2019s chief electoral officer is warning the government that proposed legislation will impair the election commissioner\u2019s power to investigate election rule breaking.</p> <p>A controversial bill introduced last month, if passed, will make sweeping changes to voting and referendums in the province, and is making its way through debate in the legislature.</p> <p>In documents sent to Justice Minister Mickey Amery and all legislature members, chief electoral officer Gordon McClure warns that some changes in the bill will reduce the election commissioner\u2019s ability to investigate and enforce compliance with election law, including financial contribution rules.</p> <p></p> <p>Alberta\u2019s Chief Electoral Officer, Gordon McClure, warns new UCP legislation will reduce the election commissioner\u2019s ability to investigate and enforce compliance with election laws. Global News</p> <p>A summary of concerns attached to the email says that under one of the bill\u2019s proposed changes, none of the significant investigations undertaken by the election commissioner in the last five years would have happened and some current investigations would need to be abandoned.</p> <p>Amery says all of the bill\u2019s proposals are meant to protect democracy, deliver fair and open elections, and restore confidence in every vote cast by Albertans, but he did not directly address McClure\u2019s concerns.</p> <p>Opposition NDP justice critic Irfan Sabir says McClure\u2019s letter makes it clear the United Conservatives are undermining investigations into election law, which would let those who break the rules off the hook.</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Central%20Alberta%20First%20Nations%20slam%20Bill%2054/","title":"Central Alberta First Nations slam Bill 54","text":"<p>Central Alberta First Nations slam Bill 54</p> <p>Treaty 6 Nations vow to fight against separation legislation</p> <p></p> <p>Alberta Government House Leader Joseph Schow (Advocate file photo)[Listen to this article</p> <p>00:05:03</p> <p>](https://www.bpmcdn.com/files/texttospeech/8011556-476b864d-f154-457f-a908-e1ae638ae6ec.mp3)</p> <p>Central Alberta First Nations have vowed to fight provincial legislation that would make it easier to put forward citizen-led referendums, including separation from Canada questions.</p> <p>\"Premier (Danielle) Smith's government is not interested in partnership,\" said the Confederacy of Treaty 6 First Nations in a statement Thursday. \"(I)nstead they sow division among Albertans and attack our Treaties by passing Bill 54.</p> <p>\"We will fight against separtion and any 'citizen-led' referendum that threatens Treaty.\"</p> <p>Treaty 6 covers 15 First Nations, including Sunchild and O'Chiese, northwest of Rocky Mountain House, and Maskwacis's Samson, Louis Bull, Ermineskin and Montana First Nations. Alexander, Alexis Nakota Sioux, Beaver Lake, Cold Lake, Enoch, Frog Lake, Whitefish Lake, Heart Lake and Kehewin Cree First Nations are also part of the treaty first signed in 1876.</p> <p>The provincial government's Bill 54, known as the Election Statutes Amendment Act, among other things, lowers the threshold for citizen-led referendums. After First Nations groups complained, last-minute changes to the legislation were made declaring that existing treaty rights could not be threatened by any referendum question.</p> <p>\"I believe that democracy thrives when people trust the process,\" said Premier Danielle Smith, via a media release last month. \"These changes would make elections at every level in Alberta more accessible and transparent while protecting their integrity, ensuring confidence in the outcomes. We are also creating more opportunities for Albertans to be involved in direct democracy and to have their say on issues that matter to them.\u201d</p> <p>With the amended legislation, the threshold for success will be changed to 10 per cent of the number of eligible voters who voted in the last general election in 120 days.</p> <p>\"When we were talking about looking at the thresholds for both recall and citizen initiative, one of the reasons why we were discussing changing it is that you want a bar that's high, but you don't want a bar that's impossible to achieve,\" said Smith, during the press conference announcing the amendments. \"We saw with some of the recall initiatives that took place at the municipal level, the bar was impossible to achieve. So we wanted to try to create something that was a little bit more reasonable.\"</p> <p>Once a petition is successfully submitted, the chief electoral officer will have 30 days to decide if the requirements have been met, and if so, 60 days to submit the matter to the courts for further disposition.</p> <p>The new amendments fall short of the changes First Nations groups wanted that would have made it impossible for a separation referendum to go forward.</p> <p>\"First Nations have always been kind and loving, but our kindness is taken advantage of. Let us be clear: we are not subordinate to Alberta or Canada. Our relationship is Nation-to-Nation with the Crown, and that relationship must be respected,\" says the statement from Confederacy of Treaty 6 Grand Chief Greg Desjarlais.</p> <p>Desjarlais said they are prepared to take their fight to the courts.</p> <p>\"Our rights are affirmed and protected by Section 35 of the Constitution \u2014 we will not hesitate to assert them. Our sacred Treaty will not be undone by the thoughtless and careless actions of a loud minority.</p> <p>\"You cannot undermine our rights or our future.\"</p> <p>Alberta House Leader Joseph Schow said in a news conference on Thursday that the bill is a large piece of legislation is about making elections transparent and fair and not just about referendums.</p> <p>He said he was not surprised at the response because it involves change. \"But I think it is change in response to the requests that we've had.</p> <p>\"The most important thing we can do as a government is ensure confidence in election results and that's what I think this piece of legislation does.\"</p> <p>NDP Opposition Leader Christina Gray criticized the UCP government for Bill 54, as well as its lack of action on addressing cost of living or the health-care system \"crisis.\"</p> <p>\"Not only did they pass anti-democratic legislation like Bill 54, but they used anti-democratic tactics in the Legislature to get it done.\"</p> <p>Gray took aim at the Smith government for using time allocation motions that \"cut off debate and allowed them to ram through controversial legislation with minimal scrutiny or public awareness.\"</p> <p>The UCP government has refused to pass any NDP Private Member's Bills, while passing all of those introduced by UCP MLAs, she says.</p> <p>Gray also accused the UCP of covering up a health-care inquiry and passing a provincial budget that cuts critical services and \"did nothing for Albertans.\"</p> <p>Editor's Note: This article has been updating to include additional comments and information from the Government of Alberta regarding Bill 54.</p> <ul> <li>See a typo/mistake?</li> <li>Have a story/tip?</li> </ul>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Cold%20Lake%20First%20Nations%20opposes%20Albertas%20proposed%20Bill%2054/","title":"Cold Lake First Nations opposes Alberta's proposed Bill 54","text":"<p>Cold Lake First Nations opposes Alberta's proposed Bill 54</p> <p>CLFN asserts that such measures threaten their treaty rights and sovereignty.</p> <p>In a statement released on May 7, CLFN shared their identity as the Denesuline of \u0141u\u00e9 Chok Tu\u00e9, original signatories of Treaty 6 in 1876. They highlighted their millennia-long occupation of ancestral lands in northeastern Treaty 6 territory, stating that their culture, language, and way of life are inherently tied to these lands.</p> <p>Chief Kelsey Jacko declared, \"We are part of the land that continues to sustain us.\"</p> <p>The letter expressed strong opposition to the proposed changes in the Alberta Elections Act, particularly the provision allowing a citizen-led referendum on provincial separation from Canada in 2026.</p> <p>Jacko described this move as \"reckless, dangerous and deeply disrespectful to the original peoples as holders of inherent rights and title.\" The statement further asserted, \"Our treaties are solemn and sacred agreements... We continue to honour our sacred treaties and will do so forever, including protecting the lands that have sustained our people for thousands of years.\"</p> <p>The proposed Bill 54 aims to amend the Alberta Elections Act by lowering the threshold for citizen-initiated referendums. The bill proposes reducing the required number of signatures from 20 per cent to 10 per cent of eligible voters and extending the collection period from 90 to 120 days. This change would make it easier for citizens to trigger referendums on various issues, including provincial separation, as detailed in the Government of Alberta's official fact sheet on the Election Statutes Amendment Act, 2025.</p> <p>Premier Danielle Smith addressed the province on May 5, stating that while she does not support Alberta's separation from Canada, she would respect the democratic process if a citizen-led petition met the required criteria.</p> <p>She noted, \"If there is a successful citizen-led referendum petition... our government will respect the democratic process and include that question on the 2026 provincial referendum ballot,\u201d according to the Government of Alberta website.</p> <p>The Premier affirms a firm commitment to protecting and honoring the inherent rights of First Nations, M\u00e9tis, and Inuit peoples. Any citizen-initiated referendum must not violate their constitutional rights and must respect Treaties 6, 7, and 8. This commitment is non-negotiable.</p> <p>Jacko added that they \u201cwill not be forced by any settler government to relocate, renegotiate our treaties or longstanding legal and political orders and relationships at the whim of settler populations.\u201d</p> <p>In the letter, Cold Lake First Nations made clear that their rights and title have never been surrendered, stating, \u201cWe never surrendered our sovereignty. Our rights and title to our ancestral lands continue in force today and forever.\u201d Jacko added, \u201cOur treaty is not negotiable; it never was and never will be.\u201d</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Danielle%20Smith%20lowers%20bar%20for%20Alberta%20referendum%20with%20separatism%20sentiment%20emerging/","title":"Danielle Smith lowers bar for Alberta referendum with separatism sentiment emerging","text":"<p>Danielle Smith lowers bar for Alberta referendum with separatism sentiment emerging</p> <p></p> <p>If passed into provincial law, the new bill would pave the way to put a citizen-proposed constitutional referendum question on the ballot with the signatures of just over 175,000 Albertans, based on 2023 electoral numbers. Photo by Azin Ghaffari/Postmedia</p> <p>OTTAWA \u2014 Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says she\u2019ll make it easier for citizens to initiate a referendum on the province\u2019s future in Canada, after warning that a Liberal win in Monday\u2019s election could spur a groundswell of support for Alberta separatism.</p> <p>Smith said on Tuesday that a newly tabled elections bill will give everyday Albertans a bigger say in the province\u2019s affairs.</p> <p>\u201c(We\u2019re giving) Albertans more ways to be directly involved in democracy, and to have their say on issues that matter to them,\u201d Smith told reporters in Edmonton.</p> <p></p> <p>If passed, the new law would dramatically lower the number of signatures needed to put a citizen-proposed constitutional referendum question on the ballot, setting a new threshold of 10 per cent of general election turnout \u2014 or just over 175,000, based on Alberta\u2019s last provincial election in 2023.</p> <p>The law will also extend the signature collection time for citizens\u2019 initiatives, from 90 to 120 days, and get rid of the existing riding-level threshold for signatures.</p> <p>Smith said on Tuesday that the current threshold of 20 per cent of registered voters, roughly 600,000 signatures, is far too high, making citizens\u2019 initiatives virtually impossible to move forward.</p> <p>\u201cYou want a bar that\u2019s high, but you don\u2019t want a bar that\u2019s impossible to achieve\u2026 so we wanted to try to create something that was a little bit more reasonable.\u201d said Smith.</p> <p>Smith noted that there haven\u2019t been any citizen-initiated referendums under the existing threshold, set in 2022.</p> <p>\u201cThat also suggested to us that people thought it was just pointless to go out and try to get that many signatures.\u201d</p> <p>Smith said that, while she personally supported Alberta staying in Canada, she wouldn\u2019t stand in the way of a citizen-led referendum on independence.</p> <p>\u201c(T)here is a citizen initiative referendum process that if citizens want to put a question on the ballot and get enough of their fellow citizens to sign that petition, then those questions will be put forward\u2026 I don\u2019t want to pre-judge what a question might be,\u201d said Smith.</p> <p>Smith previously announced she\u2019d be setting up a post-election panel that will give citizens a chance to put forward potential referendum questions.</p> <p>Polls heading into Monday\u2019s federal election showed that as many as three in 10 Albertans would vote for Alberta to leave Canada if the Liberals won a fourth term in office.</p> <p></p> <p>Premier Danielle Smith announces proposed changes to several pieces of democratic process legislation at the Alberta Legislature on April 29, 2025. Photo by Shaughn Butts/Postmedia</p> <p>Take Back Alberta founder David Parker said on Wednesday that his online petition for a referendum on Alberta sovereignty had collected more than 80,000 signatures in less than 36 hours.</p> <p>Parker said he expected to hit the 200,000 mark by the end of the week.</p> <p>Karamveer Lalh, an Edmonton-based lawyer who helped write the first version of the citizens\u2019 initiatives law, said that he expects to see other grassroots campaigners test the waters in the coming weeks.</p> <p>\u201cYou ideally want the movement and infrastructure to be in place before you actually go forward with trying to go through the petition process,\u201d Lalh told the National Post.</p> <p>\u201cBasically, you want to be confident that you\u2019ll be able to get the signatures to cross the threshold before you\u2019re officially on the clock.\u201d</p> <p>National Post</p> <p>rmohamed@postmedia.com</p> <p>Get more deep-dive National Post political coverage and analysis in your inbox with the Political Hack newsletter, where Ottawa bureau chief Stuart Thomson and political analyst Tasha Kheiriddin get at what\u2019s really going on behind the scenes on Parliament Hill every Wednesday and Friday, exclusively for subscribers. Sign up here.</p> <p>Our website is the place for the latest breaking news, exclusive scoops, longreads and provocative commentary. Please bookmark nationalpost.com and sign up for our politics newsletter, First Reading, here.</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Improving%20consistency%20and%20fairness%20in%20Albertas%20democratic%20processes/","title":"Improving consistency and fairness in Alberta\u2019s democratic processes","text":"<p>Improving consistency and fairness in Alberta\u2019s democratic processes</p> <p>Status: Bill 54 received Royal Assent on May 15, 2025.</p> <p>Ministry responsible: Justice</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Improving%20consistency%20and%20fairness%20in%20Albertas%20democratic%20processes/#overview","title":"Overview","text":"<p>The Election Statutes Amendment Act, 2025 (formerly Bill 54), will ensure democratic processes are aligned and conducted in a transparent manner. Democratic processes include elections, whether provincial, municipal or Senate, and direct democracy processes like referendums, MLA recall and citizen initiative petitions. These legislative amendments are occurring together to help ensure a consistent framework for democratic processes.</p> <p>The act will aim to increase fairness in provincial elections by improving investigation and enforcement of election rules.</p> <p>Additional amendments will:</p> <ul> <li>improve access to voting and timeliness and accuracy of election results</li> <li>permit Alberta businesses and unions to make contributions related to provincial elections and direct democracy processes</li> <li>hold MLAs accountable</li> </ul>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Improving%20consistency%20and%20fairness%20in%20Albertas%20democratic%20processes/#key-changes","title":"Key changes","text":"<p>The Election Statutes Amendment Act, 2025 amends the following legislation. Read the Election Statutes Amendment Act, 2025 fact sheet for a complete list of amendments.</p> <ul> <li> <ul> <li>Bans the use of electronic vote tabulators and the use of vouching.</li> <li>Expands the availability and integrity of special ballots.</li> <li>Requires the unofficial vote count to be completed within 12 hours of polls closing.</li> <li>Requires Albertans to vote in their electoral divisions.</li> <li>Expands the types of identification that can be used to prove residence.</li> <li>Expands rights for political parties and scrutineers.</li> <li>Allows the province to set regulations for election signs and advertising.</li> <li>Clarifies that government may advertise during elections if the advertising does not have an undue influence on voters.</li> </ul> </li> <li> <ul> <li>Allows corporate and union contributions for provincial elections and applies existing reporting requirements.</li> <li>Reduces the maximum limit on contributions to third party advertisers.</li> <li>Adjusts party and candidate expense limits to recognize the increasing costs of campaigning.</li> <li>Increases third party election advertising spending limits.</li> </ul> </li> <li> <ul> <li>Improves the process for responding to emergencies and improves access to voting by First Nations and Metis Settlements.</li> </ul> </li> <li> <ul> <li>Improves the process for responding to emergencies and improves access to voting by First Nations and Metis Settlements.</li> <li>Requires third-party referendum advertisers to indicate if they are for or against a referendum question or questions \u2013 this change is included in the Election Finances and Contributions Disclosure Act but applies to referendums.</li> <li>Removes the requirement for a referendum before a resolution for a constitutional amendment.</li> <li>Creates a regulation making power under which the government may specify the extent to which provisions of the Election Finances and Contributions Disclosure Act apply to a referendum.</li> <li>Adds a section that states nothing in a referendum held under this act is to be construed as abrogating or derogating from the existing Aboriginal and treaty rights of the Aboriginal Peoples of Canada that are recognized and affirmed by section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982.</li> </ul> </li> <li> <ul> <li>Increases public trust in the recall process and improves the process for Albertans to hold their elected MLAs accountable between elections.</li> </ul> </li> <li> <ul> <li>Increases Albertans\u2019 ability to have their voices heard and play a more direct role in the democratic process by initiating action on issues that affect them.</li> </ul> </li> <li> <ul> <li>Improves transparency by updating campaign finance rules for candidates and third-party advertisers to report by September 30 of the election year, rather than March 1 of the following year.</li> </ul> </li> </ul>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Improving%20consistency%20and%20fairness%20in%20Albertas%20democratic%20processes/#next-steps","title":"Next steps","text":"<p>The amendments to the Local Authorities Election Act came into force May 15, 2025. Changes to all other acts will come into force on proclamation.</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Improving%20consistency%20and%20fairness%20in%20Albertas%20democratic%20processes/#resources","title":"Resources","text":"<ul> <li>Local political parties and campaign expense limits</li> </ul>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Improving%20consistency%20and%20fairness%20in%20Albertas%20democratic%20processes/#news","title":"News","text":"<ul> <li>Strengthening democracy (April 29, 2025)</li> </ul>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/May%202024%20Alberta%20Municipalities%20said%20it%20hasnt%20been%20given%20chance%20to%20consult%20on%20changes%20to%20bill/","title":"May 2024: Alberta Municipalities said it hasn't been given chance to consult on changes to bill","text":"<p>May 2024: Alberta Municipalities said it hasn't been given chance to consult on changes to bill</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/May%202024%20Alberta%20Municipalities%20said%20it%20hasnt%20been%20given%20chance%20to%20consult%20on%20changes%20to%20bill/#notification-settings","title":"Notification Settings","text":"<p>This browser doesn't support push notifications at the moment. Check browsers features, update your browser or try to use one from the list of recommended to manage your notifications settings:</p> <ul> <li>Firefox (27+)</li> <li>Google Chrome (30+)</li> <li>Safari ( MacOS 13+ with browser 16.1+ and iOS 16.4+ ) / Note make sure Push API support enabled under Settings &gt; Safari &gt; Advanced &gt; Experimental Features</li> <li>Microsoft Edge</li> </ul> <p>If you wish to manage your notification settings from this browser you will need to update your browser's settings for this site. Just click button below and allow notifications for this site</p> <p>Note Safari 16.4+ working on iOS devices also need this site app to be installed at device's Home Screen for Push Notifications to work</p> <p>Manage Notification Settings</p> <p>Close</p> <ul> <li>Share</li> <li>Print</li> <li>Email</li> <li>Read Later</li> </ul> <p>EDMONTON - Alberta's municipal affairs minister declined Monday to clarify whether towns and cities would still get their say before changes are made to a contentious bill that gives the province broad authority to fire local councillors.</p> <p>Read this article for free:</p> <p>To continue reading, please subscribe:</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/May%202024%20Alberta%20Municipalities%20said%20it%20hasnt%20been%20given%20chance%20to%20consult%20on%20changes%20to%20bill/#monthly-digital-subscription","title":"Monthly Digital Subscription","text":"<p>$19 + tax for 4 weeks and receive a Canada Proud Manitoba Strong mug and sticker FREE!</p> <ul> <li>Enjoy unlimited reading on winnipegfreepress.com</li> <li>Read the E-Edition, our digital replica newspaper</li> <li>Access News Break, our award-winning app</li> <li>Play interactive puzzles</li> </ul> <p></p> <p>*Special offer only available to new subscribers or returning subscribers without a subscription for more than eight weeks. 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Expect merchandise delivery within two weeks for addresses within Manitoba and up to four weeks if outside of Manitoba.</p> <p>To continue reading, please subscribe:</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/May%202024%20Alberta%20Municipalities%20said%20it%20hasnt%20been%20given%20chance%20to%20consult%20on%20changes%20to%20bill/#add-winnipeg-free-press-access-to-your-brandon-sun-subscription-for-only","title":"Add Winnipeg Free Press access to your Brandon Sun subscription for only","text":"<p>$1 for the first 4 weeks*</p> <ul> <li>Enjoy unlimited reading on winnipegfreepress.com</li> <li>Read the E-Edition, our digital replica newspaper</li> <li>Access News Break, our award-winning app</li> <li>Play interactive puzzles Start now</li> </ul> <p>No thanks</p> <p>*$1 will be added to your next bill. After your 4 weeks access is complete your rate will increase by $0.00 a X percent off the regular rate.</p> <p>EDMONTON - Alberta's municipal affairs minister declined Monday to clarify whether towns and cities would still get their say before changes are made to a contentious bill that gives the province broad authority to fire local councillors.</p> <p>Read unlimited articles for free today:</p> <p>Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 06/05/2024 (388 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.</p> <p>EDMONTON \u2013 Alberta\u2019s municipal affairs minister declined Monday to clarify whether towns and cities would still get their say before changes are made to a contentious bill that gives the province broad authority to fire local councillors.</p> <p>Ric McIver announced the changes last Thursday and promised at that time he would talk to municipal leaders about looming amendments to the bill.</p> <p>But on Monday, when asked by reporters on the state of consultations, McIver pointed to the fact he already spoke with multiple leaders \u201cover the last few days\u201d about the impending changes.</p> <p></p> <p>Minister of Municipal Affairs Ric McIver and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith take part in a press conference in Edmonton on Wednesday April 10, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jason Franson</p> <p>When asked if he considered those discussions to be the promised consultation, McIver declined to clarify.</p> <p>\u201cIt\u2019s one form of consultation, it\u2019s certainly not the only form,\u201d he replied.</p> <p>The bill, introduced April 25, has been widely condemned by municipal leaders as a broad overreach into their authority with a possible chill effect on their decision making.</p> <p>The bill not only gives cabinet broad power to fire councillors but also overturn any council bylaw.</p> <p>This weekend, Craig Snodgrass, the mayor of High River \u2013 Premier Danielle Smith\u2019s hometown \u2014 said the only reason the bill is on the table is because the UCP has failed to get \u201ctheir people\u201d into the mayor\u2019s seat in Edmonton and Calgary.</p> <p>\u201cThis is about control. It won\u2019t end with the big cities. Scrap it,\u201d Snodgrass wrote on social media.</p> <p>McIver said last week the amendments will address those concerns but has not provided specifics.</p> <p>Tyler Gandam, president of Alberta Municipalities \u2014 the organization representing Alberta towns, cities and villages \u2013 confirmed that McIver called him last week to say changes were coming, but said that has been it.</p> <p>\u201cMinister McIver committed to consulting with Alberta Municipalities in advance of the announcement of the forthcoming amendments, but nothing has been arranged yet,\u201d Gandam said in a statement.</p> <p>\u201cI trust we will have the opportunity to address our concerns on all parts of the bill,\u201d he said.</p> <p>Paul McLauchlin, head of Rural Municipalities of Alberta, told CHED radio Monday he has had \u201cdiscussions\u201d with McIver.</p> <p>While McLauchlin said he\u2019s hopeful McIver has heard the organization\u2019s concerns and will make necessary changes, he said nobody was asking for a bill making it easier for cabinet to remove local councillors or mayors.</p> <p>\u201cWhat is the point? Is the point to assert authority? Or is the point to provide clarity to governance?\u201d said McLauchlin.</p> <p>It\u2019s also not clear when the amendments will be brought to the floor of the legislature.</p> <p>Smith has said amendments would come this week and would clarify the new cabinet powers would be used only sparingly.</p> <p>Asked Monday about the timeline, McIver said, \u201cWhen amendments are ready, we will introduce them in the house.\u201d</p> <p>But McIver said time is a factor. He said the government aims to ensure the bill passes debate in the legislature in the current sitting, which is scheduled to rise at the end of the month.</p> <p>Opposition New Democrats have said the bill is so flawed it needs to be pulled altogether.</p> <p>McIver said municipal officials will need time to get ready for the next elections in October 2025.</p> <p>\u201cTime is ticking, and it\u2019s an important issue,\u201d McIver said.</p> <p>The bill also makes changes to local elections, including mandating hand-counted ballots, and green lighting political parties to run in Edmonton and Calgary.</p> <p>This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 6, 2024.</p> <ul> <li>Share</li> <li>Print</li> <li>Email</li> <li>Read Later</li> </ul> <p>Report Error Submit a Tip</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Smith%20pushes%20Alberta%20Accord%20defends%20citizen%20referendums%20amid%20separation%20debate/","title":"Smith pushes \u2018Alberta Accord,\u2019 defends citizen referendums amid separation debate","text":"<p>Smith pushes \u2018Alberta Accord,\u2019 defends citizen referendums amid separation debate</p> <p></p> <p>Premier Danielle Smith says her government is pursuing a stronger role for Alberta within Confederation and launching negotiations with Ottawa on a new \u201cAlberta Accord\u201d \u2014 while defending recent changes that would make it easier for citizens to trigger a referendum, including on the province\u2019s possible separation from Canada.</p> <p>In back-to-back media appearances Monday and Tuesday, Smith struck a firm but conciliatory tone, saying she is hopeful new Prime Minister Mark Carney will work with Alberta to address long-standing grievances over energy policy, resource access, and federal oversight.</p> <p>\u201cThese conversations are a positive first step,\u201d Smith said Monday, following her first face-to-face meeting with Carney. \u201cBut it will take tremendous effort and cooperation to repair the damage to Alberta\u2019s economy caused in the last 10 years by Ottawa\u2019s destructive anti-resource agenda.\u201d</p> <p>The Alberta government is establishing a formal negotiating team and plans to consult Albertans over the next six months on constitutional reforms. Smith said demands include guaranteed tidewater access on all three coasts for Alberta\u2019s energy products, the repeal of federal laws like Bill C-69 and clean electricity regulations, and per-capita federal transfers equal to those received by Ontario, Quebec and British Columbia.</p> <p>Smith also confirmed the creation of an \u201cAlberta Next\u201d panel to explore long-term economic and constitutional options \u2014 potentially leading to a referendum in 2026.</p> <p>But the premier repeatedly denied that her government is pushing Alberta toward separation. Instead, she defended Bill 54, which lowers the threshold for citizen-led referendums, saying it empowers grassroots democracy without promoting secession.</p> <p>\u201cI don\u2019t have a mandate, and my party doesn\u2019t support [separation],\u201d she said. \u201cA citizen-initiated referendum would be, by definition, initiated by citizens. All I\u2019ve said is I will honour the process.\u201d</p> <p>The comments come as frustration in Alberta continues to simmer in the wake of last month\u2019s federal election, with Ottawa\u2019s climate and energy policies cited by many Albertans as evidence of chronic regional alienation. Smith acknowledged that public anger is real.</p> <p>\u201cThere\u2019s a lot of anger after the last election \u2014 a lot of anger at the way we\u2019ve been treated for the last 10 years,\u201d she said. \u201cI believe in free speech. Citizens have a right to express their opinion\u2026 It\u2019s my job to make sure that debate is respectful.\u201d</p> <p>Smith was pressed repeatedly about whether she would honour the results of a hypothetical referendum on separation. She remained non-committal.</p> <p>\u201cUntil I see an actual question with 177,000 signatures of Albertans that are supportive of it, it is difficult for me to know what that looks like,\u201d she said Tuesday.</p> <p>Smith said she believes support for separation sits at around 30 per cent but hopes that number will drop as negotiations with Ottawa proceed.</p> <p>During her Monday remarks, Smith emphasized that Alberta is seeking more autonomy over areas such as immigration and agriculture, citing Section 95 of the Constitution as grounds for provincial authority.</p> <p>\u201cThese are a couple of things that we would put to the people,\u201d she said, adding that Quebec\u2019s model of fiscal independence may offer a path forward.</p> <p>Critics have raised alarms about Alberta\u2019s embrace of California-style citizen initiatives, warning that the model could create policy instability. Smith dismissed those concerns.</p> <p>\u201cAlbertans don\u2019t want to vote on every little thing,\u201d she said. \u201cBut they might want to vote on some big things.\u201d</p> <p>She also brushed off a warning from Ontario Premier Doug Ford, who recently criticized separatist rhetoric. Smith said she and Ford have a \u201cgreat friendship,\u201d but that Alberta\u2019s issues differ from Ontario\u2019s.</p> <p>\u201cHe\u2019s the premier of Ontario. I\u2019m the premier of Alberta,\u201d she said. \u201cI don\u2019t tell him how he should run his province, and I would hope he doesn\u2019t tell me how to run mine.\u201d</p> <p>The growing debate around referendums has drawn opposition from First Nations across Alberta and Canada. Chiefs from Treaties 6, 7, 8 and 10 were set to speak out against any independence vote just hours after Smith\u2019s Monday remarks.</p> <p>Asked whether separation could override treaty obligations, Smith said treaty and Indigenous rights would remain fully respected regardless of Alberta\u2019s constitutional status.</p> <p>\u201cYou can\u2019t vote away treaty rights. You can\u2019t vote away Indigenous rights,\u201d she said. \u201cWe accept and respect that [Indigenous nations] are sovereign jurisdictions in their own right.\u201d</p> <p>Despite her reassurances, Smith offered little clarity on how a binding referendum \u2014 or independence \u2014 would function within Canada\u2019s legal framework.</p> <p>\u201cI won\u2019t prejudge what citizens might want to put on the table,\u201d she said. \u201cBut I\u2019m going to do everything in my power to negotiate a fair deal for Alberta.\u201d</p> <p>Smith\u2019s appearance also touched on a growing conflict-of-interest controversy involving Justice Minister Mickey Amery, whose family ties to businessman Sam Rash have drawn scrutiny. Rash is currently involved in a lawsuit and multiple investigations related to Alberta Health Services.</p> <p>Smith dismissed the concerns outright.</p> <p>\u201cShould he divorce his wife so he doesn\u2019t have the relationship with the cousin anymore?\u201d she said. \u201cMinister Mickey Amery is in no conflict of interest.\u201d</p> <p>Amery, she said, has not made any decisions that would affect Rash and remains compliant with ethics rules.</p> <p>Asked if she would discipline UCP MLAs who express support for separation, Smith demurred, saying the party was founded on a commitment to Canadian unity \u2014 but added that differing views within caucus are inevitable.</p> <p>\u201cAll I can do is try to convince people my view is right \u2014 that it\u2019s worth fighting for, it\u2019s worth doing the negotiation,\u201d she said.</p> <p>The premier wrapped up her comments Tuesday by reiterating her government\u2019s priorities: negotiation, consultation, and economic empowerment within Canada.</p> <p>\u201cThere is no referendum question. There is no petition campaign,\u201d she said. \u201cSo I don\u2019t have answers to those questions because, until we see an actual question and an active petition, it really is just hypothetical.\u201d</p> <ul> <li>Events</li> <li>Jobs</li> <li>Buy &amp; Sell</li> </ul>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Smiths%20Electoral%20Reforms%20Are%20Straight%20from%20Trumps%20Playbook/","title":"Smith\u2019s Electoral \u2018Reforms\u2019 Are Straight from Trump\u2019s Playbook","text":"<p>Smith\u2019s Electoral \u2018Reforms\u2019 Are Straight from Trump\u2019s Playbook</p> <p></p> <p>Alberta Premier Danielle Smith\u2019s moves to reduce voting rights and allow big corporate donations are lifted from the tactics of US Republicans. Photo via X.</p> <p>The United Conservative Party introduced sweeping changes to Alberta\u2019s election laws Tuesday.</p> <p>While billed as technical updates to restore faith in and improve access to elections in Alberta, they do precisely the opposite.</p> <p>In no uncertain terms: the reforms mirror tactics employed by Donald Trump\u2019s Republican Party in the U.S.</p> <p>Viewed individually, each measure may appear modest. Taken together \u2014 and considered alongside their political timing \u2014 they mark another step in the Americanization of Alberta\u2019s democratic institutions. And the latest in a long list of democratic transgressions in this province.</p> <p>Reintroducing union and corporate contributions</p> <p>The UCP\u2019s bill removes existing restrictions on union and corporate donations to parties, candidates, leadership contestants and political action committees during the election period.</p> <p>This move revives the influence of well-funded third parties, a tactic Republicans perfected after the U.S. Supreme Court\u2019s Citizens United decision. By channelling large sums through parties and PACs, political actors can effectively circumvent party donation limits while maintaining plausible deniability.</p> <p>In Alberta, the reintroduction of big money into elections risks further skewing the political process toward the interests of the wealthy, while ordinary citizens struggle to be heard. For these reasons, Albertans are overwhelmingly opposed to such measures.</p> <p>Banning vote tabulators</p> <p>The bill prohibits the use of vote-counting machines, or tabulators, across the province. While automation can improve efficiency (cutting down on the long wait times on election night that the UCP disparaged in restricting special ballots), the political context surrounding this change cannot be ignored.</p> <p>Trump Republicans have spent years undermining public confidence in election technology, falsely alleging that machines were rigged or hacked to steal the 2020 election. These manufactured doubts fuelled attacks on electoral legitimacy in the United States.</p> <p>Absent a comprehensive strategy for transparency and public education, Alberta\u2019s banning of tabulators risks creating similar opportunities for conspiracy theories to take root.</p> <p>In short, this measure decreases efficiency and reinforces unfounded doubts about the integrity of our elections \u2014 precisely the opposite of what the UCP purports to achieve through this bill.</p> <p>Lowering recall petition thresholds</p> <p>The bill reduces the number of signatures required to initiate recall petitions against MLAs and municipal leaders.</p> <p>While pitched as a mechanism for greater accountability, experience from the U.S. suggests otherwise. Lower thresholds facilitate the weaponization of recall petitions by organized political groups seeking to destabilize elected officials over ideological disputes, not misconduct.</p> <p>In Republican-led states, such tactics have created a chilling effect, discouraging politicians from making difficult but necessary decisions for fear of constant political retaliation.</p> <p>Restricting the vote</p> <p>The UCP\u2019s bill eliminates \u201cvote anywhere\u201d provisions, restricts special ballots and introduces additional identification requirements for voters.</p> <p>All three measures make voting more difficult, reversing decades of progress across Canada to improve voter equality.</p> <p>As research \u2014 including our own \u2014 has shown, voter ID laws disproportionately affect younger and older, Indigenous, disabled, rural and low-income voters. These groups are less likely to have government-issued photo ID, and new requirements can create barriers that depress turnout.</p> <p>Despite the many myths spread by Trump Republicans, there is no evidence of widespread voter fraud in the U.S.</p> <p>The same is true in Alberta. Like their Republican counterparts, the UCP is solving a problem that does not exist, with the likely consequence (and perhaps intent) of reducing participation among demographics less likely to support them.</p> <p>This amounts to the government choosing its voters, not vice versa.</p> <p>All of these measures feed conspiracy narratives surrounding election integrity, once again sowing baseless doubt in the sanctity of proven election processes.</p> <p>Amending the Referendum Act</p> <p>The UCP is lowering the barriers to holding province-wide referendums, a key demand from separatist factions within the party\u2019s base.</p> <p>In the U.S., Trump\u2019s allies have increasingly used referenda to pursue partisan objectives, bypassing legislative scrutiny. In Alberta, easier referendums open the door to populist campaigns on complex issues including, potentially, a vote on Alberta\u2019s secession or joining the U.S.</p> <p>At a moment when the premier has been accused of stoking separatist sentiment, loosening these requirements represents a concession to radical elements that seek to destabilize Canadian federalism. If she is the federalist she claims to be, Smith should at least consider reviewing the trials and tribulations of David Cameron, the unwitting architect of Brexit.</p> <p>Political timing and strategic context</p> <p>The timing of this bill is significant and far from coincidental.</p> <p>Smith introduced these controversial reforms the day after the federal election hoping to catch the media off-guard and hoping few of us would notice given the attention on Ottawa.</p> <p>That is scarcely a good-faith context for debating the most consequential set of reforms to election laws in Alberta\u2019s history.</p> <p>Had the reforms been tabled later, they would have drawn national attention and hurt Pierre Poilievre\u2019s federal Conservatives by reinforcing narratives about Trumpism within the conservative movement.</p> <p>Introducing the changes now minimizes that risk while placating UCP separatists and stoking the national unity crisis Smith and former Reform leader Preston Manning promised would follow a Liberal victory.</p> <p>Trumpism at its clearest</p> <p>The UCP\u2019s proposed changes do not merely tweak administrative processes.</p> <p>And they most certainly do not enhance accessibility or integrity in our electoral processes. They do precisely the opposite.</p> <p>The UCP\u2019s reforms reflect a deeper shift toward the strategies pioneered by Trump Republicans: leveraging dark money, undermining trust in elections, weaponizing recalls, disenfranchising opponents, suppressing voter turnout and empowering radical populist movements.</p> <p>This convergence is not accidental. It is a conscious political strategy.</p> <p>Whether Alberta follows the full arc of the Trump example remains to be seen. But today\u2019s legislation makes clear that the risk is no longer hypothetical. It is real, present and growing. And the further it progresses, the harder it will be for concerned Albertans to stop it.</p> <p>Read more: Alberta</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Smiths%20Electoral%20Reforms%20Are%20Straight%20from%20Trumps%20Playbook/#the-barometer","title":"The Barometer","text":"<p>What Writing Do You Do in Your Spare Time?</p> <ul> <li>Journal writing</li> <li>Letters to friends</li> <li>Memoirs</li> <li>Fiction</li> <li> <p>Poetry</p> </li> <li> <p>Tell us more\u2026</p> </li> </ul> <p>Take this week\u2019s poll</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Strengthening%20democracy%20%20Renforcer%20la%20d%C3%A9mocratie/","title":"Strengthening democracy | Renforcer la d\u00e9mocratie","text":"<p>Strengthening democracy | Renforcer la d\u00e9mocratie</p> <p></p> <p>Voting gives Albertans a voice in shaping the future of our province. Direct democracy processes like referendums, recall and citizen initiative petitions provide further opportunities for Albertans to be heard and express their views. The proposed Election Statutes Amendment Act, 2025, would make Alberta\u2019s elections and other democratic processes more open, secure and accessible.</p> <p>\u201cI believe that democracy thrives when people trust the process. These changes would make elections at every level in Alberta more accessible and transparent while protecting their integrity, ensuring confidence in the outcomes. We are also creating more opportunities for Albertans to be involved in direct democracy and to have their say on issues that matter to them.\u201d</p> <p>Fair and free elections are the foundation of democracy, and Alberta\u2019s government is taking action to protect them. The proposed changes include:</p> <ul> <li>Banning the use of electronic tabulators and other automated voting machines, requiring all ballots to be counted by hand to protect election integrity.</li> <li>Eliminating vouching at voting stations to strengthen identification and verification processes.</li> <li>Requiring unofficial vote counts to be completed within 12 hours of polls closing to provide timely, reliable results.</li> <li>Voters being required to cast their ballot in their constituency of residence or by requesting a special ballot.</li> <li>Expanding access to special ballots, allowing any voter to request one without needing to provide a reason while protecting integrity by requiring voters to personally request their special ballot (with exceptions for those needing assistance due to a disability).</li> <li>Updating the Recall Act to make it easier for Albertans to hold elected officials accountable by lowering the signature threshold and extending the timeframe to collect signatures.</li> <li>Improving the Citizen Initiative Act process by setting the threshold for all successful petitions at 10 per cent of eligible voters who participated in the last general election.</li> </ul> <p>\u201cAlbertans rightly expect their government to make sure democratic processes are fair and transparent with accurate and timely results. These proposed amendments would deliver on my mandate to review and make changes to strengthen public trust in the integrity of our elections.\u201d</p> <p>Additional amendments under the Election Statutes Amendment Act, 2025 would:</p> <ul> <li>Allow corporate and union contributions for provincial elections while maintaining transparency and accountability through existing financial disclosure requirements.</li> <li>Improve access to voting for First Nations and M\u00e9tis Settlements during referendums and Senate elections.</li> <li>Enhance emergency response provisions for voting disruptions during referendums and Senate elections.</li> </ul> <p>These changes would help ensure that Alberta\u2019s democratic processes are open, secure, and reflective of the will of Albertans, while creating new opportunities for greater public participation.</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Strengthening%20democracy%20%20Renforcer%20la%20d%C3%A9mocratie/#quick-facts","title":"Quick facts","text":"<ul> <li>The Election Act governs the process for provincial elections, by-elections and plebiscites in Alberta and creates the office of the chief electoral officer, the head of Elections Alberta.</li> <li>The Election Finances and Contributions Disclosure Act governs the financing of provincial elections, Senate elections and referendums, including rules for registered political parties, constituency associations, candidates, leadership contestants and third parties.</li> <li>The Alberta Senate Election Act governs the process for Senate elections in Alberta.</li> <li>The Referendum Act governs the process for referendums in Alberta.</li> <li>The Recall Act outlines the process for Albertans to initiate the recall of an elected MLA.</li> <li>The Citizen Initiative Act allows eligible voters in Alberta to propose legislative or policy initiatives, constitutional referendum questions and establishes rules for advertising and spending.</li> </ul>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Strengthening%20democracy%20%20Renforcer%20la%20d%C3%A9mocratie/#related-information","title":"Related information","text":"<ul> <li>Improving consistency and fairness in Alberta\u2019s democratic processes</li> <li>Bill 54: Election Statutes Amendment Act, 2025</li> <li>Election Statutes Amendment Act, 2025 fact sheet</li> </ul>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Strengthening%20democracy%20%20Renforcer%20la%20d%C3%A9mocratie/#related-news","title":"Related news","text":"<ul> <li>Strengthening Alberta\u2019s local elections (April 25, 2024)</li> <li>Accountable and transparent local elections (October 18, 2024)</li> </ul>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Strengthening%20democracy%20%20Renforcer%20la%20d%C3%A9mocratie/#multimedia","title":"Multimedia","text":"<ul> <li>Watch the news conference</li> <li>Listen to the news conference</li> </ul>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Strengthening%20democracy%20%20Renforcer%20la%20d%C3%A9mocratie/#afin-de-preserver-la-democratie-le-gouvernement-de-lalberta-propose-des-modifications-visant-a-garantir-des-elections-justes-et-ouvertes-tout-en-accroissant-la-confiance-envers-le-processus-electoral","title":"Afin de pr\u00e9server la d\u00e9mocratie, le gouvernement de l\u2019Alberta propose des modifications visant \u00e0 garantir des \u00e9lections justes et ouvertes, tout en accroissant la confiance envers le processus \u00e9lectoral.","text":"<p>En votant, les Albertaines et les Albertains participent activement \u00e0 fa\u00e7onner l\u2019avenir de la province. Les processus de d\u00e9mocratie directe, tels que les r\u00e9f\u00e9rendums, les r\u00e9vocations et les p\u00e9titions d\u2019initiative citoyenne, offrent \u00e0 la population d\u2019autres occasions de se faire entendre et d\u2019exprimer leurs opinions. Le projet de loi Election Statutes Amendment Act, 2025 rendrait les \u00e9lections et les autres processus d\u00e9mocratiques de l\u2019Alberta plus ouverts, plus s\u00fbrs et plus accessibles.</p> <p>\u00ab Je crois que la d\u00e9mocratie prosp\u00e8re lorsque les citoyens font confiance au processus. Ces modifications permettraient d\u2019am\u00e9liorer l\u2019accessibilit\u00e9 et la transparence des \u00e9lections en Alberta, quel que soit le niveau de gouvernement, tout en prot\u00e9geant leur int\u00e9grit\u00e9 et en garantissant la confiance envers les r\u00e9sultats. Nous cr\u00e9ons \u00e9galement davantage d\u2019occasions pour que la population albertaine participe \u00e0 la d\u00e9mocratie directe et puisse s\u2019exprimer sur les enjeux qui la concernent. \u00bb</p> <p>Des \u00e9lections libres et \u00e9quitables sont le fondement de la d\u00e9mocratie, et le gouvernement de l\u2019Alberta prend des mesures pour les prot\u00e9ger. Voici les modifications propos\u00e9es:</p> <ul> <li>interdire l\u2019utilisation de tabulateurs \u00e9lectroniques et d\u2019autres machines de vote automatis\u00e9es, exigeant un d\u00e9pouillement manuel pour pr\u00e9server l\u2019int\u00e9grit\u00e9 du scrutin;</li> <li>abolir le recours \u00e0 un r\u00e9pondant dans les bureaux de vote afin de renforcer les processus d\u2019identification et de v\u00e9rification;</li> <li>exiger de compl\u00e9ter le d\u00e9pouillement non officiel dans les 12 heures suivant la fermeture des bureaux de vote pour garantir des r\u00e9sultats fiables et en temps opportun;</li> <li>exiger que les \u00e9lecteurs votent dans leur propre circonscription ou par bulletin de vote sp\u00e9cial;</li> <li>\u00e9largir l\u2019acc\u00e8s aux bulletins de vote sp\u00e9ciaux, en permettant \u00e0 tout \u00e9lecteur d\u2019en demander un sans avoir \u00e0 fournir de raison, tout en prot\u00e9geant l\u2019int\u00e9grit\u00e9 en exigeant que les \u00e9lecteurs demandent personnellement leur bulletin de vote sp\u00e9cial (des exceptions sont pr\u00e9vues pour les personnes en situation de handicap);</li> <li>mettre \u00e0 jour la Recall Act afin de permettre aux Albertaines et aux Albertains de tenir les \u00e9lus responsables en abaissant le seuil du nombre de signatures et en prolongeant le d\u00e9lai de collecte des signatures;</li> <li>am\u00e9liorer le processus de la Citizen Initiative Act en fixant le seuil pour toutes les p\u00e9titions retenues \u00e0 10 % des \u00e9lecteurs admissibles ayant pris part aux derni\u00e8res \u00e9lections g\u00e9n\u00e9rales.</li> </ul> <p>\u00ab La population albertaine s\u2019attend l\u00e9gitimement \u00e0 ce que le gouvernement garantisse que les processus d\u00e9mocratiques soient justes, transparents, et fournissent des r\u00e9sultats pr\u00e9cis et rapides. Ces modifications propos\u00e9es me permettraient de remplir mon mandat consistant \u00e0 examiner et \u00e0 apporter des changements pour renforcer la confiance du public dans l\u2019int\u00e9grit\u00e9 de nos \u00e9lections. \u00bb</p> <p>Des modifications suppl\u00e9mentaires en vertu de l\u2019 Election Statutes Amendment Act, 2025 permettraient:</p> <ul> <li>d\u2019autoriser les contributions des entreprises et des syndicats aux \u00e9lections provinciales tout en maintenant la transparence et la responsabilit\u00e9 gr\u00e2ce aux exigences actuelles en mati\u00e8re de divulgation financi\u00e8re;</li> <li>d\u2019am\u00e9liorer l\u2019acc\u00e8s au vote pour les Premi\u00e8res Nations et les \u00e9tablissements m\u00e9tis lors des r\u00e9f\u00e9rendums et des \u00e9lections s\u00e9natoriales;</li> <li>de renforcer les dispositions relatives aux interventions d\u2019urgence en cas de perturbations \u00e9lectorales lors des r\u00e9f\u00e9rendums et des \u00e9lections s\u00e9natoriales.</li> </ul> <p>Ces modifications contribueraient \u00e0 garantir que les processus d\u00e9mocratiques de l\u2019Alberta sont ouverts, s\u00fbrs et refl\u00e8tent la volont\u00e9 de la population, tout en cr\u00e9ant de nouvelles occasions de participation publique accrue.</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Strengthening%20democracy%20%20Renforcer%20la%20d%C3%A9mocratie/#faits-en-bref","title":"Faits en bref","text":"<ul> <li>L\u2019 Election Act r\u00e9git le processus des \u00e9lections provinciales, des \u00e9lections partielles et des pl\u00e9biscites en Alberta et cr\u00e9e le poste de directeur g\u00e9n\u00e9ral des \u00e9lections, \u00e0 la t\u00eate d\u2019\u00c9lections Alberta.</li> <li>L\u2019 Election Finances and Contributions Disclosure Act r\u00e9git le financement des \u00e9lections provinciales, des \u00e9lections s\u00e9natoriales et des r\u00e9f\u00e9rendums, y compris les r\u00e8gles applicables aux partis politiques enregistr\u00e9s, aux associations de circonscription, aux candidats, aux candidats \u00e0 la direction et aux tiers.</li> <li>L\u2019 Alberta Senate Election Act r\u00e9git le processus des \u00e9lections s\u00e9natoriales en Alberta.</li> <li>La Referendum Act r\u00e9git le processus des r\u00e9f\u00e9rendums en Alberta.</li> <li>La Recall Act d\u00e9crit le processus permettant aux Albertaines et aux Albertains de mettre en \u0153uvre la r\u00e9vocation d\u2019un d\u00e9put\u00e9 \u00e9lu.</li> <li>La Citizen Initiative Act permet aux \u00e9lecteurs admissibles de l\u2019Alberta de proposer des initiatives l\u00e9gislatives ou politiques, des questions de r\u00e9f\u00e9rendum constitutionnel, et \u00e9tablit des r\u00e8gles en mati\u00e8re de publicit\u00e9 et de d\u00e9penses.</li> </ul>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Strengthening%20democracy%20%20Renforcer%20la%20d%C3%A9mocratie/#renseignements-connexes","title":"Renseignements connexes","text":"<ul> <li>Am\u00e9liorer la coh\u00e9rence et l\u2019\u00e9quit\u00e9 des processus d\u00e9mocratiques de l\u2019Alberta (en anglais seulement)</li> <li>Projet de loi 54: Loi de 2025 modifiant les lois \u00e9lectorales (en anglais seulement)</li> <li>Fiche d\u2019information sur la Loi de 2025 modifiant les lois \u00e9lectorales (en anglais seulement)</li> </ul>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Strengthening%20democracy%20%20Renforcer%20la%20d%C3%A9mocratie/#nouvelles-connexes","title":"Nouvelles connexes","text":"<ul> <li>Renforcer les \u00e9lections municipales en Alberta (25 avril 2024) (en anglais seulement)</li> <li>Des \u00e9lections municipales responsables et transparentes (18 octobre 2024) (en anglais seulement)</li> </ul>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Strengthening%20democracy%20%20Renforcer%20la%20d%C3%A9mocratie/#multimedia_1","title":"Multim\u00e9dia","text":"<ul> <li>Visionnez la conf\u00e9rence de presse (en anglais seulement)</li> <li>\u00c9coutez la conf\u00e9rence de presse (en anglais seulement)</li> </ul>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Strengthening%20democracy%20%20Renforcer%20la%20d%C3%A9mocratie/#translations","title":"Translations","text":"<ul> <li>Arabic</li> <li>Simplified Chinese</li> <li>Traditional Chinese</li> <li>Punjabi</li> <li>Spanish</li> <li>Ukrainian</li> </ul>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/The%20Alberta%20government%20banned%20electronic%20vote%20tabulators.%20Municipalities%20want%20it%20to%20reconsider%20%20CBC%20News/","title":"The Alberta government banned electronic vote tabulators. Municipalities want it to reconsider | CBC News","text":"<p>The Alberta government banned electronic vote tabulators. Municipalities want it to reconsider | CBC News</p> <p>Edmonton</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/The%20Alberta%20government%20banned%20electronic%20vote%20tabulators.%20Municipalities%20want%20it%20to%20reconsider%20%20CBC%20News/#the-alberta-government-banned-electronic-vote-tabulators-municipalities-want-it-to-reconsider","title":"The Alberta government banned electronic vote tabulators. Municipalities want it to reconsider","text":"<p>The Alberta government banned the use of electronic tabulators in municipal elections when it passed Bill 20 in May 2024. It's a method that municipalities have used for decades, saying it has saved them both time and money.</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/The%20Alberta%20government%20banned%20electronic%20vote%20tabulators.%20Municipalities%20want%20it%20to%20reconsider%20%20CBC%20News/#province-says-the-change-is-about-trust-some-municipalities-worry-about-cost","title":"Province says the change is about trust; some municipalities worry about cost","text":"<p>A voter enters his paper ballot into a tabulator machine at an advanced polling station in Sherwood Park in the 2023 provincial election. (CBC)</p> <p>The Alberta government banned the use of electronic tabulators in municipal elections when it passed Bill 20 in May of this year. It's a method that municipalities have used for decades, saying it has saved them time and money.</p> <p>Alberta Municipalities wants the province to reconsider.</p> <p>A resolution to be put forward at the organization's annual convention this week in Red Deer calls for tabulators to be permitted as an option \"to ensure accurate, cost-effective and timely results for Albertan voters.\"</p> <p>St. Albert Mayor Cathy Heron, past-president of Alberta Municipalities, told CBC Radio's Edmonton AM that she can't remember a time when St. Albert wasn't using tabulators.</p> <p>\"They provided really timely, efficient, and quite honestly, accurate counting of our residents' votes,\" Heron said.</p> <p>\"Now we're going to get the exact opposite. We're going to get less timely and less accurate and much more costly counting of the votes.\"</p> <p>WATCH | Municipalities pushing back against ban on electronic vote tabulators:</p> <p>Municipalities pushing back against ban on electronic vote tabulators 8 months ago Duration 1:53</p> <p>In an emailed statement, Heather Jenkins, press secretary for Minister of Municipal Affairs Ric McIver, said the changes were made to give municipalities enough time to prepare for the next municipal general elections, scheduled for Oct. 20, 2025.</p> <p>\"It is important for Albertans to feel they can trust the methods and results of local elections and requiring all ballots to be counted by hand will bolster their trust in the election outcome, which is better for democracy,\" Jenkins wrote.</p> <p>The Alberta Municipalities resolution says in part that some municipalities haven't used manual vote counting in years. Votes counted via a tabulator are subject to a post-election review process that verifies the results.</p> <p>The risk in \"adapting alternative vote-counting processes without precedent or corporate expertise\" increases the likelihood of mistakes, delayed results, and cost escalation, it says.</p> <p>\"I have spoken to Minister McIver... at length about this, and he says that it is mainly because there is a certain part of the population that have spoken to him directly that indicated that they don't trust the machines,\" Heron said.</p> <p>\"He's only going on a few anecdotal suspicions. I would happily support this if there was good, solid data and good, solid surveys of Albertans, but that doesn't exist.\"</p> <ul> <li>Alberta government promises amendments in wake of Bill 20 backlash</li> <li>Tabulators counting votes in Alberta advance polling</li> </ul> <p>The City of Red Deer looked at the financial impact the change might have. In a report, the city's administration found the changes might cost almost $1.5 million for the next election \u2014 around 3\u00bd times more than in past general elections.</p> <p>One section of the Red Deer report, which came out earlier this month, assumed that with 30 per cent voter turnout and one provincial referendum question, there would be about 90,000 ballots to count.</p> <p>\"It will take four workers 37 days (counting 24/7) to hand count 90,000 ballots,\" the report said.</p> <p>\"To complete the count in four hours, it will take 1,200 workers.\"</p> <p>The report indicates that the city would ask the province for that money in the budget.</p> <p>LISTEN | Alberta Municipalities will ask the province to let municipalities use tabulators:</p> <p>In May, the Alberta government passed a bill that bans the use of vote-counting machines in local elections. Now, a motion is being put forward to bring back vote-counting machines. The City of St. Albert is bringing the motion forward. Cathy Heron is St. Albert's mayor.</p> <p>In an email to CBC, McIver said: \"Conducting municipal elections has always been a cost for the municipality to bear. That has not changed.\"</p> <p>Ken Johnston, Red Deer's mayor, told CBC in an interview that the machines are tried and true.</p> <p>\"They have served us well. They have served us efficiently. They've come through testing, they're tested frequently. Each morning of the election, they're tested,\" Johnston said.</p> <p>He said public servants understand the need for transparency.</p> <ul> <li>Elections Alberta says no issue with tabulators despite criticism over slow start to election results</li> </ul> <p>\"The bottom line, however, is if you want to proceed in this direction, please resource us so that we're not out another million dollars in our own budget.\"</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/The%20Dangerous%20Americanization%20of%20Alberta%20Democracy/","title":"The Dangerous Americanization of Alberta Democracy","text":"<p>The Dangerous Americanization of Alberta Democracy</p> <p></p> <p>Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is borrowing from US politics at a time when presidential candidate Donald Trump is attacking democratic norms. Smith photo via Alberta government. Trump photo via Wikimedia.</p> <p>Since her return to provincial politics, elected representatives, opposition leaders, academics and activists have shared their concerns regarding the bills put forward by Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and the United Conservative Party.</p> <p>Legislation such as the Alberta Sovereignty Act and the Provincial Priorities Act have garnered strong opposition, with critics highlighting threats to the constitutional division of powers and rule of law, academic freedom and Indigenous sovereignty.</p> <p>Proposed changes to the Alberta Human Rights Act and anti-trans legislation have sparked additional concerns.</p> <p>Many of these measures were left out of the UCP\u2019s 2023 election platform, raising questions as to their origins. While much has been made about her borrowing pages from the Quebec playbook, Smith\u2019s idealization of Republican policy in the United States may provide additional clues as to the source of the UCP\u2019s policies.</p> <p>In a 2023 speech, Smith praised Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem and projected Alberta as a \u201c little bastion of freedom \u201d in the same vein.</p> <p>This begs the question: To what extent does the Smith government draw inspiration from Republicans in crafting its legislative agenda? And what are the implications of this sort of Americanization of Alberta politics?</p> <p>Our research suggests that Smith\u2019s admiration of Republicans goes beyond rhetoric. The UCP\u2019s approach to legislation aligns well with red-state leaders who advance a vision of \u201cfreedom\u201d that limits pluralism and concentrates power in the executive.</p> <p>At its core, the cross-pollination of these ideas marks a shift with potentially profound consequences for democracy in Alberta.</p> <p>\u2018Policy diffusion\u2019 in action</p> <p>Policy diffusion occurs when ideas, practices or innovations spread from one government or jurisdiction to another. In January, for instance, Republican Gov. Spencer Cox signed the Utah Constitutional Sovereignty Act, a bill that is almost identical to the Alberta Sovereignty Within a United Canada Act (2022). In fact, Utah Sen. Scott Sandall, who drafted the bill, was happy to cite his sources.</p> <p>Policy ideas seem to be travelling north to a far larger extent, however, with Smith\u2019s government introducing legislation that centralizes power in a manner similar to several U.S. states.</p> <p>The Municipal Affairs Statutes Amendment Act (Bill 20) is a prime example, as it gives the provincial cabinet extensive control over municipalities, school boards and post-secondary institutions. In a similar vein, North Carolina\u2019s Senate Bill 36 sought to redraw city council districts and mandate partisan declarations in traditionally non-partisan elections, a concerted effort to manipulate local governance in favour of the governing party.</p> <p>States like Missouri, Arkansas and North Dakota have passed strict voter ID laws and imposed limits on local electoral autonomy under the pretext of protecting \u201celection integrity.\u201d The UCP\u2019s Bill 20 contained similar provisions, outlawing the decades-old practice of vouching alongside the elimination of electronic vote tabulators and the introduction of parties to local election ballots in Edmonton and Calgary. Critics on both sides of the border contend partisan motives and conspiratorial thinking were at play.</p> <p>Bill 20 is not the only instance where policy diffusion has occurred. The Red Tape Reduction Statutes Amendment Act (Bill 16), an amendment which aims to dismantle existing regulations across multiple Alberta ministries, resembles former president Donald Trump\u2019s Executive Order 13771, issued in 2017. Similar to Alberta, Trump imposed annual reporting requirements on the bureaucracy.</p> <p>This focus on reducing red tape has not precluded governments on both sides of the border from imposing new regulations on public sector bodies, including municipalities and universities. In Alberta, the Provincial Priorities Act (Bill 18) places federal research funding at the discretion of the Alberta government. Introducing the bill, Smith argued that it would counter perceived efforts by the federal government to impose ideological priorities by setting provincial research agendas. She also viewed the bill as an opportunity to achieve more ideological balance on Alberta campuses.</p> <p>Among several other anti-university measures, Bill 18 mirrors Republican Rep. Brandon Williams\u2019 Respecting the First Amendment on Campus Act, which would mandate institutions of higher education to adopt and adhere to principles of free speech, potentially undermining academic freedom and constraining diverse viewpoints.</p> <p>The UCP\u2019s ongoing bid to amend the Alberta Human Rights Act betrays similar intentions at Americanization. Enshrining gun rights, alongside a commitment to \u201cLife, Liberty, Property and the Pursuit of Happiness,\u201d borrows directly from the U.S. Declaration of Independence (albeit with the addition of the word \u201cproperty\u201d).</p> <p>The UCP\u2019s proposed measures to further marginalize transgender Albertans and transfer medical decisions out of the hands of patients, parents and doctors when it comes to trans health also have American roots.</p> <p>Given these similarities and the influence of Project 2025 on Republican policy in the United States, Albertans may have a reliable guidebook for their own fall 2024 legislative session, which begins today.</p> <p>Impacts of Americanization</p> <p>The UCP\u2019s Republican-inspired legislative agenda has impacts beyond policy. It represents a broader transformation toward a brand of right-wing populism that undermines liberal democratic norms by reducing local autonomy, curtailing academic freedom and concentrating authority in the political executive.</p> <p>If similar moves at the federal level may be labelled the presidentialization of the prime ministership, Smith\u2019s actions can be considered an attempt to turn her own office into that of a U.S. governor.</p> <p>She has admitted as much. At the tail end of the COVID-19 pandemic, Smith mused about issuing \u201cpardons\u201d to scofflaws. She retracted the proposal once she realized the Canadian system did not confer her such gubernatorial powers.</p> <p>The path Smith is charting for Alberta raises critical questions about the province\u2019s democratic future. By borrowing from the Republican playbook, her government is not only pushing policies that redefine rights and responsibilities in Alberta \u2014 it is blurring the lines between Canadian and American democracy at a time when the latter has reached the point of crisis.</p> <p>Canada\u2019s system of pluralism respects the importance of different viewpoints, beliefs and lifestyles within a society. It\u2019s the idea that a healthy democracy allows diverse groups \u2014 whether based on culture, religion, politics or other factors \u2014 to coexist and have a voice in shaping decisions that affect the entire community. Checks and balances on executive power are crucial to this effort. Instead of one group dominating, pluralism ensures that everyone gets a chance to be heard and contribute to the public debate, leading to a more inclusive and balanced society.</p> <p>As Republicans steer the United States further away from that ideal, attempting to concentrate more power in governors and presidents, Albertans should be weary of similar developments in our own province.</p> <p>Read more: Rights + Justice, Politics, Alberta</p> <p>LATEST STORIES</p> <ul> <li>      #### BC Won\u2019t Require Measles Vaccination for Schools          As outbreaks grow, that\u2019s the wrong strategy against the most infectious disease, one retired doctor says.</li> <li>      #### Slow Trot Policing? The Madu Investigation Drags On          A \u2018fairly straightforward\u2019 RCMP probe of Alberta\u2019s former justice minister hits three years and counting.</li> <li>      #### Is BC\u2019s Education Underfunded and at a \u2018Tipping Point\u2019?          Yes, according to the BC School Trustees Association. They\u2019re sounding the alarm.</li> <li>      #### Canada Joins Trump\u2019s New Ill-Fated \u2018War on Drugs\u2019          Repression of the drug trade always fails and often makes things worse here and abroad.</li> <li>      #### Why Canada\u2019s Vaccine Leadership Matters More than Ever          We\u2019re uniquely positioned to lead a revolution in vaccine technology. Here\u2019s how.</li> <li>      #### How Alberta Gave Measles the Advantage          Danielle Smith promotes and thrives on post-pandemic chaos. It\u2019s putting children at too much risk.</li> </ul>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/The%20Dangerous%20Americanization%20of%20Alberta%20Democracy/#the-barometer","title":"The Barometer","text":"<p>What Writing Do You Do in Your Spare Time?</p> <ul> <li>Journal writing</li> <li>Letters to friends</li> <li>Memoirs</li> <li>Fiction</li> <li> <p>Poetry</p> </li> <li> <p>Tell us more\u2026</p> </li> </ul> <p>Take this week\u2019s poll</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Why%20the%20UCP%20Is%20a%20Threat%20to%20Democracy/","title":"Why the UCP Is a Threat to Democracy","text":"<p>Why the UCP Is a Threat to Democracy</p> <p></p> <p>Alberta has become less democratic and more authoritarian under Jason Kenney and Danielle Smith, writes Jared Wesley. Photo via Alberta government.</p> <p>I\u2019m going to be blunt in this piece. As a resident of Alberta and someone trained to recognize threats to democracy, I have an obligation to be.</p> <p>The United Conservative Party is an authoritarian force in Alberta. Full stop.</p> <p>I don\u2019t come by this argument lightly. It\u2019s based on extensive evidence that I present below, followed by some concrete actions Albertans can take to push back against creeping authoritarianism.</p> <p>Drawing the line</p> <p>There\u2019s no hard-and-fast line between democracy and authoritarianism. Just ask people from autocracies: you don\u2019t simply wake up one day under arbitrary rule.</p> <p>They\u2019re more like opposite sides of a spectrum, ranging from full participation by all citizens in policy-making at one end (democracy) to full control by a leader and their cadre on the other (authoritarianism).</p> <p>Clearly, Alberta politics sit somewhere between these two poles. It is neither an ideal Greek city-state nor a totalitarian hellscape.</p> <p>The question is: How much of a shift toward authoritarianism are we willing to accept? Where do we draw the line between politics as usual and anti-democratic activities?</p> <p>At a bare minimum, we should expect our leaders to respect the rule of law, constitutional checks and balances, electoral integrity and the distribution of power.</p> <p>Unfortunately, the United Conservative Party has shown disregard for these principles. They\u2019ve breached them so many times that citizens can be forgiven for being desensitized. But it is important to take stock so we can determine how far we\u2019ve slid.</p> <p>Here\u2019s a breakdown of those principles.</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Why%20the%20UCP%20Is%20a%20Threat%20to%20Democracy/#1-rule-of-law","title":"1. Rule of Law","text":"<p>In healthy democracies:</p> <ul> <li>no one is above the law\u2019s reach or below the law\u2019s protection;</li> <li>there is due process; and</li> <li>the rules are clear and evenly applied.</li> </ul> <p>By these standards, Alberta is not looking so healthy these days.</p> <ol> <li>Above the law: Members of the UCP government have positioned themselves as being beyond reproach. A premier fired the election commissioner before he could complete an investigation into his own leadership campaign. A justice minister confronted a police chief over a traffic ticket.</li> <li>Legal interference: The same UCP premier crossed the line in the Artur Pawlowski affair, earning a rebuke from the ethics commissioner that \u201cit is a threat to democracy to interfere with the administration of justice.\u201d The episode raised questions about how allies of the premier might receive preferential treatment in the courts.</li> <li>Targeting city dwellers: Vengeance has no place in a province where rule of law ensures everyone is treated fairly. Through Bill 20, the UCP is singling out Alberta\u2019s two biggest cities as sites for an experiment with local political parties. The premier herself noted that partisanship is ill-suited to local politics. She\u2019s spared rural and other urban communities from those dangers, but not Edmonton and Calgary (whose voters elected many city councillors who don\u2019t share the UCP\u2019s viewpoint on public policy or democracy).</li> </ol>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Why%20the%20UCP%20Is%20a%20Threat%20to%20Democracy/#2-checks-and-balances","title":"2. Checks and Balances","text":"<p>Leaders should also abide by the Constitution, including:</p> <ul> <li>the separation of powers among the executive, legislative and judicial branches; and</li> <li>the division of powers between federal and provincial governments.</li> </ul> <p>The UCP government has demonstrated a passing familiarity and respect for these checks on its authority.</p> <ol> <li>Going around the legislature: At the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the UCP government stripped the legislature of its ability to review public health measures taken by the minister of health. They backtracked only after their own allies threatened to sue them.</li> <li>Going around the courts: The first draft of the UCP\u2019s Sovereignty Act would have stolen powers from the federal government, the Alberta legislature and the courts and granted them to the premier. They walked some of it back after public backlash but remain insistent that the provincial cabinet \u2014 not the Supreme Court \u2014 should determine the bounds of federal and provincial authority.</li> </ol>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Why%20the%20UCP%20Is%20a%20Threat%20to%20Democracy/#3-electoral-integrity","title":"3. Electoral Integrity","text":"<p>In democracies, leaders respect the will of the people.</p> <p>That includes:</p> <ul> <li>abiding by internal party rules and election laws;</li> <li>campaigning openly about their policy proposals to seek a mandate from voters during elections; and</li> <li>ensuring that everyone entitled to vote has an opportunity to do so.</li> </ul> <p>Again, the UCP\u2019s record is abysmal.</p> <ol> <li>Tainted race: The party didn\u2019t start off on the right foot. The inaugural UCP leadership race featured over $100,000 in fines levied against various party operatives and contestants. While the RCMP failed to find evidence of voter or identity fraud of a criminal nature, the police and Elections Alberta found \u201c clear evidence \u201d of suspicious votes and that many alleged voters had \u201cno knowledge\u201d of casting ballots. As someone who participated in that vote as a party member, I can attest: the outcome is tarnished for me as a result.</li> <li>Hidden agenda: The UCP has a habit of keeping more promises than they make on the campaign trail. Of the party\u2019s most high-profile policy initiatives \u2014 an Alberta pension plan, an Alberta police service, introducing parties into municipal elections, the Sovereignty Act and the Provincial Priorities Act \u2014 none appeared in the UCP\u2019s lengthy list of campaign planks. This is because most are wildly unpopular. Indeed, the premier denied wanting to pursue several of them altogether, only to introduce them as legislation once in power. This disrespect for voters sows distrust in the democratic system.</li> <li>Fake referendum: The UCP\u2019s disingenuous use of a constitutional referendum on the equalization principle shows their lack of respect for direct democracy. No attempt was made to inform the public about the actual nature of equalization before a provincewide vote was held, and the government capitalized on misperceptions in an effort to grandstand against Ottawa.</li> <li>Voters\u2019 intent: Bill 20 is also an affront to voters\u2019 intent by giving cabinet sweeping new powers to dismiss local elected officials. Routine elections give voters the right to determine who represents them. Bill 20 takes that power away and gives it to two dozen ministers behind closed doors.</li> <li>Voter suppression: Bill 20 goes one step further to require voter ID in local elections. Borrowed from the MAGA playbook, the UCP\u2019s move is designed to restrict the types of people who can vote in elections. It\u2019s about voter suppression, plain and simple. Combined with the conspiracy-driven banning of vote tabulators, the government claims this is making elections fairer. At best, these are solutions in search of a problem. Voter fraud is exceptionally rare in Alberta, and voting machines are safe and secure.</li> </ol>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Why%20the%20UCP%20Is%20a%20Threat%20to%20Democracy/#4-distribution-of-power","title":"4. Distribution of Power","text":"<p>More broadly, our leaders should respect the importance of pluralism, a system where power is dispersed among multiple groups or institutions, ensuring no single entity holds too much control. This includes:</p> <ul> <li>respecting the autonomy of local governments and officials;</li> <li>protecting the independence of arm\u2019s-length agencies, boards and commissions;</li> <li>upholding the public service bargain, which affords civil servants protection and benefits in return for providing fearless advice and loyal implementation; and</li> <li>upholding the principle of academic freedom, whereby academics can pursue lines of inquiry without fear of censorship or persecution.</li> </ul> <p>The UCP has little respect for these principles, either.</p> <ol> <li>Kissing the ring: In the past two weeks, the UCP government introduced Bill 18 and Bill 20, the combined effect of which would be to bend municipal councillors and public bodies to the will of the provincial cabinet and encroach on matters of academic freedom by vetting federally funded research grants.</li> <li>Breaking the bargain: UCP premiers have broken the public service bargain by threatening to investigate and eventually firing individual officials, pledging to roll back wages and benefits and hinting at taking over their pensions. They\u2019ve also cut public servants and stakeholders out of the policy development process, limiting the amount of evidence and number of perspectives being considered.</li> <li>Cronyism and meddling: The party has loaded various arm\u2019s-length agencies with patronage appointments and dismissed or threatened to fire entire boards of others. During a UCP leadership debate, various contenders promised to politicize several fields normally kept at arm\u2019s length from interference \u2014 academia, the police, the judiciary, prosecutions, pensions, tax collection, immigration and sport.</li> </ol> <p>Combined, these measures have steadily concentrated power in the hands of the premier and their entourage. The province has become less democratic and more authoritarian in the process.</p> <p>What we can do about it</p> <p>The first step in pushing back against this creeping authoritarianism is recognizing that this is not politics as usual. Despite the government\u2019s disinformation, these new measures are unprecedented. Alberta\u2019s drift toward authoritarianism has not happened overnight, but we cannot allow ourselves to become desensitized to the shift.</p> <p>We should continue to call out instances of anti-democratic behaviour and tie them to the growing narrative I\u2019ve presented above. Crowing about each individual misdeed doesn\u2019t help if they don\u2019t fit into the broader storyline. Arguing over whether the UCP is acting in authoritarian or fascist ways also isn\u2019t helpful. This isn\u2019t about semantics; it\u2019s about action.</p> <p>This also isn\u2019t a left/right or partisan issue. Conservatives ought to be as concerned about the UCP\u2019s trajectory as progressives. Politicians of all stripes should be speaking out and Albertans should welcome all who do. Opposition to the UCP\u2019s backsliding can\u2019t be monolithic. We need many voices, including those within the government caucus and UCP base.</p> <p>In this sense, it\u2019s important to avoid engaging in whataboutism over which side is more authoritarian. It\u2019s important to acknowledge when any government strays from democratic principles. Finding common ground with folks from across the spectrum about what we expect from our governments is key.</p> <p>Some Albertans are organizing protests related to specific anti-democratic moves by the UCP government, while others are marshalling general resistance events and movements. With numerous public sector unions in negotiations with the government this year, there is a potential for a groundswell of public education and mobilization in the months ahead. Supporting these organizations and movements is an important way to signal your opposition to the UCP government\u2019s democratic backsliding.</p> <p>Show up, amplify their messages, and donate if you can. Protests work, but only if everyday Albertans support the causes.</p> <p>Calling or writing your MLA also helps. Don\u2019t use a form letter or script; those are easily ignored. But staffers I\u2019ve interviewed confirm that for every original phone call they receive, they assume at least a dozen other constituents are just as upset; you can double that for every letter. Inundating UCP MLA offices, in particular, can have a real impact on government caucus discussions. We know that governments make policy U-turns when enough caucus members threaten a revolt. On the flip side, silence from constituents is taken as complicity with the government\u2019s agenda.</p> <p>Talking to friends, family and neighbours about your concerns is equally important. It lets people know that others are also fed up, helping communities break out of the \u201c spiral of silence \u201d that tends to hold citizens back from advocating for their interests. Encouraging them to write or call their MLA, or to join you at a rally, would also help.</p> <p>Elections are the ultimate source of accountability for governments. While Albertans will likely have to wait until May 2027 for another provincial campaign, there are some interim events that allow folks to voice their concerns.</p> <ul> <li>Existing UCP members and people wanting to influence the party from within can participate in this fall\u2019s leadership review.</li> <li>Opponents should support opposition parties and politicians who take these threats seriously.</li> <li>The next federal election is also an opportunity to get politicians on the record about how they feel about the UCP\u2019s democratic backsliding. Ask folks who come to your door about their position on these issues and what they\u2019re prepared to say publicly.</li> <li>The next round of municipal and school board elections in October 2025 offers Albertans another opportunity to weigh in. By introducing political parties into these elections in Edmonton and Calgary, and with Take Back Alberta openly organizing affiliated slates throughout the province, the UCP is inviting Albertans to consider these local elections a referendum on their approach to democracy.</li> </ul> <p>None of what I\u2019ve suggested starts or ends with spouting off on social media. Our digital world is full of slacktivists who talk a good game on Facebook or X but whose actual impact is more performance than action.</p> <p>It\u2019s also not enough to say \u201cthe courts will handle it.\u201d Many of the UCP\u2019s moves sit in a constitutional grey area. Even if the courts were to intervene, they\u2019d be a backstop, at best. Investigations, let alone court cases, take months if not years to conclude. And the standard of proof is high. In the meantime, the damage to individuals, groups and our democratic norms would have been done already.</p> <p>In short, if Albertans want to push back against the UCP\u2019s creeping authoritarianism, they\u2019ll need to get off the couch. Make a commitment and a plan to stand up. Democracy demands that of us, from time to time.</p> <p>Read more: Politics, Alberta</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"archive/Why%20the%20UCP%20Is%20a%20Threat%20to%20Democracy/#the-barometer","title":"The Barometer","text":"<p>What Writing Do You Do in Your Spare Time?</p> <ul> <li>Journal writing</li> <li>Letters to friends</li> <li>Memoirs</li> <li>Fiction</li> <li> <p>Poetry</p> </li> <li> <p>Tell us more\u2026</p> </li> </ul> <p>Take this week\u2019s poll</p>","tags":["clippings"]},{"location":"blog/","title":"Democracy Blog","text":""},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/","title":"Bill 54: A Blueprint for Corporate Control","text":"","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/#how-the-ucp-is-handing-alberta-democracy-to-the-highest-bidder","title":"How the UCP is Handing Alberta Democracy to the Highest Bidder","text":"<p>The passage of Bill 54 represents one of the darkest moments in Alberta's democratic history. Under the guise of \"strengthening democracy,\" the UCP has systematically dismantled the safeguards that protect ordinary Albertans' political voice while opening the floodgates for corporate influence.</p>","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/#the-corporate-takeover","title":"The Corporate Takeover","text":"","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/#corporate-donations-return-with-5000-limit","title":"Corporate Donations Return with $5,000 Limit","text":"<p>The most egregious provision of Bill 54 is the reintroduction of corporate political donations with an aggregate maximum of $5,000 per year. While limited, this represents a significant step backward for democratic equality in Alberta.</p> <p>What this means in practice:</p> <ul> <li>Oil and gas corporations can now donate up to $5,000 to the UCP and affiliated entities</li> <li>Wealthy developers can buy influence over municipal elections within the $5,000 limit</li> <li>Multiple corporate entities from the same industry can each donate the maximum amount</li> <li>Small donors - working families, seniors, students - face organized corporate coordination</li> </ul> <p>This isn't about \"fairness\" as the UCP claims. It's about ensuring that those with the most money have the loudest political voice.</p>","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/#attacking-workers-political-rights","title":"Attacking Workers' Political Rights","text":"<p>While corporations can coordinate multiple $5,000 donations from related entities, Bill 54 maintains equal restrictions on unions. However, the practical effect favors capital due to the number and wealth of corporate donors.</p> <p>The legislation:</p> <ul> <li>Maintains strict limits on union political activity</li> <li>Makes it harder for unions to educate members about political issues</li> <li>Reduces unions' ability to advocate for workers' interests</li> <li>Tilts the playing field decisively toward corporate interests</li> </ul>","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/#voter-suppression-by-design","title":"Voter Suppression by Design","text":"","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/#eliminating-vouching","title":"Eliminating Vouching","text":"<p>Bill 54 eliminates the vouching system that has helped eligible Albertans vote for decades. This system allowed voters to vouch for the identity of other eligible voters who lacked proper ID.</p> <p>Who this hurts most:</p> <ul> <li>Indigenous peoples living on reserves where addresses may not match government records</li> <li>Homeless Albertans who lack fixed addresses</li> <li>Students who may not have updated ID reflecting their current address</li> <li>Recent immigrants still navigating bureaucratic processes</li> <li>Seniors who may have difficulty obtaining current ID</li> </ul> <p>This isn't about election integrity - it's about making it harder for likely opposition voters to cast ballots.</p>","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/#banning-electronic-tabulators","title":"Banning Electronic Tabulators","text":"<p>The prohibition on electronic vote tabulators is perhaps the most irrational provision of Bill 54. These machines:</p> <ul> <li>Increase accuracy by eliminating human counting errors</li> <li>Speed up results allowing faster, more reliable reporting</li> <li>Save money by reducing the need for large counting staff</li> <li>Provide paper backup maintaining full audit capability</li> </ul> <p>The ban forces municipalities to return to slow, error-prone hand counting while increasing costs. There is no legitimate reason for this change except to sow doubt about election results and make voting more difficult.</p>","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/#centralizing-control","title":"Centralizing Control","text":"","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/#partisan-municipal-elections","title":"Partisan Municipal Elections","text":"<p>Bill 54 allows political parties in municipal elections in Edmonton and Calgary for the first time. This represents a fundamental attack on local democracy.</p> <p>Municipal politics has traditionally been non-partisan because:</p> <ul> <li>Local issues don't follow party lines (roads, water, local services)</li> <li>Community needs are best addressed by candidates focused on their neighborhoods</li> <li>Non-partisan elections encourage coalition-building and compromise</li> <li>Local democracy works best when freed from provincial/federal partisan divides</li> </ul> <p>Introducing parties will:</p> <ul> <li>Force artificial divisions on communities</li> <li>Import provincial political conflicts to local issues</li> <li>Give party organizations (funded by corporations) control over candidate selection</li> <li>Undermine the independence of local councillors</li> </ul>","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/#weakening-electoral-oversight","title":"Weakening Electoral Oversight","text":"<p>The legislation also weakens the Chief Electoral Officer's investigative powers, making it:</p> <ul> <li>Harder to investigate election finance violations</li> <li>More difficult to enforce campaign spending rules  </li> <li>Easier for wealthy interests to break rules with impunity</li> <li>Less likely that violations will be discovered or punished</li> </ul>","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/#the-broader-authoritarian-pattern","title":"The Broader Authoritarian Pattern","text":"<p>Bill 54 must be understood as part of the UCP's broader authoritarian agenda:</p>","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/#bill-20-provincial-control-over-municipalities","title":"Bill 20: Provincial Control Over Municipalities","text":"<ul> <li>Gives cabinet power to fire mayors and councillors</li> <li>Allows the province to overturn local bylaws</li> <li>Undermines municipal autonomy and local democracy</li> </ul>","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/#attacks-on-civil-society","title":"Attacks on Civil Society","text":"<ul> <li>Defunding organizations that provide oversight or criticism</li> <li>Restricting environmental activism</li> <li>Undermining independent media and research</li> </ul>","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/#labor-suppression","title":"Labor Suppression","text":"<ul> <li>Weakening collective bargaining rights</li> <li>Restricting union political activity</li> <li>Attacking public sector workers</li> </ul>","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/#concentration-of-power","title":"Concentration of Power","text":"<ul> <li>Centralizing decision-making in the Premier's office</li> <li>Reducing legislative oversight and debate</li> <li>Bypassing normal democratic processes</li> </ul>","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/#the-social-democratic-alternative","title":"The Social Democratic Alternative","text":"<p>We envision a very different approach to democratic reform\u2014one that expands participation rather than restricting it:</p>","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/#getting-money-out-of-politics","title":"Getting Money Out of Politics","text":"<ul> <li>Public financing of campaigns to level the playing field</li> <li>Strict donation limits from individuals only</li> <li>Real-time disclosure of all political donations</li> <li>Enhanced penalties for finance violations</li> </ul>","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/#expanding-voting-access","title":"Expanding Voting Access","text":"<ul> <li>Automatic voter registration for all eligible citizens</li> <li>Extended voting periods including more advance voting days</li> <li>Improved accessibility for voters with disabilities</li> <li>Mobile voting for remote and Indigenous communities</li> </ul>","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/#strengthening-oversight","title":"Strengthening Oversight","text":"<ul> <li>Independent electoral administration free from political interference</li> <li>Enhanced investigative powers for electoral officers</li> <li>Transparent counting using modern, auditable technology</li> <li>Regular democratic audits to identify and fix problems</li> </ul>","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/#protecting-local-democracy","title":"Protecting Local Democracy","text":"<ul> <li>Municipal autonomy protected by law</li> <li>Non-partisan local elections maintained</li> <li>Community control over local decisions</li> <li>Proportional representation to ensure all voices are heard</li> </ul>","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/#whats-at-stake","title":"What's at Stake","text":"<p>The battle over Bill 54 isn't just about election rules\u2014it's about what kind of society we want to live in:</p> <p>The UCP vision:</p> <ul> <li>Politics dominated by wealthy corporations</li> <li>Working people marginalized and silenced  </li> <li>Local communities controlled by provincial parties</li> <li>Democracy as a privilege for the powerful</li> </ul> <p>Our vision:</p> <ul> <li>Politics accessible to all Albertans regardless of wealth</li> <li>Workers' voices heard and respected</li> <li>Local communities controlling their own futures  </li> <li>Democracy as a right for everyone</li> </ul>","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/#fighting-back","title":"Fighting Back","text":"<p>Bill 54 has passed, but the fight for democracy in Alberta is far from over. We can:</p>","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/#immediate-actions","title":"Immediate Actions","text":"<ul> <li>Challenge the legislation in court</li> <li>Organize community resistance to implementation</li> <li>Document the harmful effects as they unfold</li> <li>Build coalitions across affected communities</li> </ul>","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/#long-term-strategy","title":"Long-term Strategy","text":"<ul> <li>Electoral - support candidates committed to reversing Bill 54</li> <li>Grassroots - build democratic capacity in communities</li> <li>Legal - use courts to protect democratic rights</li> <li>Political - pressure government to reverse course</li> </ul>","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/#building-power","title":"Building Power","text":"<ul> <li>Union organizing to strengthen workers' collective voice</li> <li>Community organizing to build local democratic capacity  </li> <li>Electoral organizing to support democratic candidates</li> <li>Coalition building across movements and communities</li> </ul>","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/bill-54-a-blueprint-for-corporate-control/#conclusion","title":"Conclusion","text":"<p>Bill 54 represents a fork in the road for Alberta. We can accept the UCP's vision of democracy for sale to the highest bidder, or we can fight for a democracy that serves all Albertans.</p> <p>The choice is ours, but only if we act. Democracy isn't a spectator sport\u2014it requires all of us to participate, organize, and fight for the kind of society we want to live in.</p> <p>The corporate takeover of Alberta democracy can be stopped, but only if we build the movement to stop it.</p> <p>This analysis is based on the Alberta Democracy Taskforce's review of Bill 54 and its implications for democratic participation in Alberta. For source materials and documentation, see our archive.</p>","tags":["corporate donations","voter suppression","authoritarianism","UCP"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/indigenous-nations-stand-against-ucp-authoritarianism/","title":"Indigenous Nations Stand Against UCP Authoritarianism","text":"","tags":["Treaty rights","sovereignty","First Nations","separation"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/indigenous-nations-stand-against-ucp-authoritarianism/#treaty-rights-under-attack-through-bill-54s-separation-referendum-provisions","title":"Treaty Rights Under Attack Through Bill 54's Separation Referendum Provisions","text":"<p>The voices of Indigenous Nations across Alberta have been clear and unified: Bill 54 represents a direct threat to Treaty rights and Indigenous sovereignty. From the Confederacy of Treaty 6 First Nations to Cold Lake First Nations, Indigenous leaders are sounding the alarm about the UCP's dangerous agenda.</p>","tags":["Treaty rights","sovereignty","First Nations","separation"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/indigenous-nations-stand-against-ucp-authoritarianism/#treaty-rights-are-not-negotiable","title":"Treaty Rights Are Not Negotiable","text":"","tags":["Treaty rights","sovereignty","First Nations","separation"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/indigenous-nations-stand-against-ucp-authoritarianism/#the-indigenous-response","title":"The Indigenous Response","text":"<p>As Chief Kelsey Jacko of Cold Lake First Nations declared: \"Our treaty is not negotiable; it never was and never will be.\"</p> <p>This statement cuts to the heart of why Bill 54's referendum provisions are so dangerous. The legislation makes it easier to put separation questions on the ballot\u2014but Treaties were signed with the Crown, not with individual provinces.</p>","tags":["Treaty rights","sovereignty","First Nations","separation"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/indigenous-nations-stand-against-ucp-authoritarianism/#what-treaties-protect","title":"What Treaties Protect","text":"<p>Indigenous Treaties in Alberta protect:</p> <ul> <li>Inherent sovereignty that predates and supersedes provincial authority</li> <li>Land rights that cannot be extinguished by provincial legislation  </li> <li>Self-governance independent of provincial political whims</li> <li>Federal obligations that provinces cannot override</li> <li>Cultural and spiritual practices protected by constitutional law</li> </ul>","tags":["Treaty rights","sovereignty","First Nations","separation"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/indigenous-nations-stand-against-ucp-authoritarianism/#the-threat-of-separation","title":"The Threat of Separation","text":"<p>Bill 54's lowered threshold for citizen-initiated referendums creates a pathway for separation questions that could:</p> <ul> <li>Undermine federal Treaty obligations by weakening the Crown's capacity to fulfill commitments</li> <li>Create legal uncertainty about Treaty enforcement in a separated Alberta</li> <li>Expose Indigenous Nations to even more aggressive provincial interference</li> <li>Violate the principle that Treaties cannot be altered without Indigenous consent</li> </ul>","tags":["Treaty rights","sovereignty","First Nations","separation"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/indigenous-nations-stand-against-ucp-authoritarianism/#the-broader-pattern-of-ucp-authoritarianism","title":"The Broader Pattern of UCP Authoritarianism","text":"","tags":["Treaty rights","sovereignty","First Nations","separation"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/indigenous-nations-stand-against-ucp-authoritarianism/#historical-context","title":"Historical Context","text":"<p>Indigenous peoples in Alberta have experience with authoritarian governments that:</p> <ul> <li>Imposed residential schools to destroy Indigenous cultures</li> <li>Passed laws restricting Indigenous movement and governance</li> <li>Seized Indigenous lands without consent</li> <li>Used legislation to undermine Treaty rights</li> </ul> <p>The UCP's current approach echoes these historical patterns of colonial control.</p>","tags":["Treaty rights","sovereignty","First Nations","separation"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/indigenous-nations-stand-against-ucp-authoritarianism/#current-attacks","title":"Current Attacks","text":"<p>Beyond Bill 54, the UCP has:</p> <ul> <li>Ignored Indigenous consultation on resource projects</li> <li>Undermined Indigenous education funding and programming</li> <li>Attacked Indigenous environmental activism through anti-protest legislation</li> <li>Failed to implement calls to action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission</li> </ul>","tags":["Treaty rights","sovereignty","First Nations","separation"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/indigenous-nations-stand-against-ucp-authoritarianism/#democratic-solidarity","title":"Democratic Solidarity","text":"","tags":["Treaty rights","sovereignty","First Nations","separation"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/indigenous-nations-stand-against-ucp-authoritarianism/#standing-together","title":"Standing Together","text":"<p>The Indigenous opposition to Bill 54 provides crucial leadership for all Albertans concerned about democracy. Indigenous Nations understand that:</p> <ul> <li>Treaty rights protect not just Indigenous peoples but set important limits on government power</li> <li>Indigenous sovereignty offers a model for community self-determination</li> <li>Collective resistance to authoritarianism benefits everyone</li> <li>Constitutional rights must be defended through unified action</li> </ul>","tags":["Treaty rights","sovereignty","First Nations","separation"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/indigenous-nations-stand-against-ucp-authoritarianism/#learning-from-indigenous-leadership","title":"Learning from Indigenous Leadership","text":"<p>Non-Indigenous Albertans can learn from Indigenous approaches to defending rights:</p> <p>Long-term thinking: Indigenous Nations plan for seven generations, not just election cycles Collective action: Indigenous politics emphasizes community consensus and collective wellbeing Principled resistance: Indigenous movements maintain clear values even under pressure Constitutional awareness: Indigenous leaders understand the legal foundations of rights protection</p>","tags":["Treaty rights","sovereignty","First Nations","separation"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/indigenous-nations-stand-against-ucp-authoritarianism/#the-ucps-dangerous-game","title":"The UCP's Dangerous Game","text":"","tags":["Treaty rights","sovereignty","First Nations","separation"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/indigenous-nations-stand-against-ucp-authoritarianism/#playing-with-separation","title":"Playing with Separation","text":"<p>The UCP's flirtation with separation rhetoric serves multiple authoritarian purposes:</p> <ul> <li>Distracts from failures in healthcare, education, and economic management</li> <li>Mobilizes their base around grievance politics rather than policy solutions</li> <li>Creates crisis that can justify extraordinary measures</li> <li>Undermines federal institutions that provide checks on provincial power</li> </ul>","tags":["Treaty rights","sovereignty","First Nations","separation"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/indigenous-nations-stand-against-ucp-authoritarianism/#threatening-indigenous-nations","title":"Threatening Indigenous Nations","text":"<p>For Indigenous Nations, separation talk represents:</p> <ul> <li>Existential threat to Treaty relationships with the federal Crown</li> <li>Legal uncertainty about the status of Treaties in a separated Alberta</li> <li>Potential exposure to even more aggressive provincial control</li> <li>Violation of the principle that Treaties cannot be altered without consent</li> </ul>","tags":["Treaty rights","sovereignty","First Nations","separation"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/indigenous-nations-stand-against-ucp-authoritarianism/#building-alliances","title":"Building Alliances","text":"","tags":["Treaty rights","sovereignty","First Nations","separation"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/indigenous-nations-stand-against-ucp-authoritarianism/#indigenous-settler-solidarity","title":"Indigenous-Settler Solidarity","text":"<p>The fight against Bill 54 requires authentic alliances between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Albertans based on:</p> <p>Mutual respect for Indigenous sovereignty and Treaty rights</p> <p>Shared opposition to authoritarianism and corporate control</p> <p>Common interest in democratic institutions that serve communities</p> <p>Recognition that Indigenous rights strengthen everyone's rights</p>","tags":["Treaty rights","sovereignty","First Nations","separation"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/indigenous-nations-stand-against-ucp-authoritarianism/#supporting-indigenous-leadership","title":"Supporting Indigenous Leadership","text":"<p>Non-Indigenous allies can support Indigenous-led resistance by:</p> <ul> <li>Amplifying Indigenous voices rather than speaking for Indigenous communities</li> <li>Learning about Treaty history and Indigenous legal traditions</li> <li>Supporting Indigenous organizations financially and politically  </li> <li>Challenging colonial attitudes in their own communities</li> <li>Following Indigenous leadership on issues affecting Indigenous rights</li> </ul>","tags":["Treaty rights","sovereignty","First Nations","separation"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/indigenous-nations-stand-against-ucp-authoritarianism/#the-path-forward","title":"The Path Forward","text":"","tags":["Treaty rights","sovereignty","First Nations","separation"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/indigenous-nations-stand-against-ucp-authoritarianism/#legal-strategies","title":"Legal Strategies","text":"<p>Indigenous Nations have unique legal tools to challenge Bill 54:</p> <ul> <li>Treaty rights that supersede provincial legislation</li> <li>Constitutional protection under Section 35</li> <li>Fiduciary relationship with the federal Crown</li> <li>International law protecting Indigenous rights</li> </ul>","tags":["Treaty rights","sovereignty","First Nations","separation"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/indigenous-nations-stand-against-ucp-authoritarianism/#political-mobilization","title":"Political Mobilization","text":"<p>Indigenous political organization provides a model for broader resistance:</p> <ul> <li>Grassroots organizing rooted in community relationships</li> <li>Clear principles that don't compromise on fundamental rights</li> <li>Coalition building across different Nations and communities</li> <li>Long-term strategy focused on systemic change</li> </ul>","tags":["Treaty rights","sovereignty","First Nations","separation"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/indigenous-nations-stand-against-ucp-authoritarianism/#building-power","title":"Building Power","text":"<p>The Indigenous response to Bill 54 shows how to build real political power:</p> <ul> <li>Cultural grounding in values that can't be bought or sold</li> <li>Institutional knowledge of legal and political systems</li> <li>Community accountability that keeps leaders connected to their base</li> <li>Intergenerational perspective that prioritizes long-term sustainability</li> </ul>","tags":["Treaty rights","sovereignty","First Nations","separation"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/indigenous-nations-stand-against-ucp-authoritarianism/#lessons-for-the-broader-movement","title":"Lessons for the Broader Movement","text":"","tags":["Treaty rights","sovereignty","First Nations","separation"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/indigenous-nations-stand-against-ucp-authoritarianism/#what-we-can-learn","title":"What We Can Learn","text":"<p>The Indigenous opposition to Bill 54 teaches the broader democratic movement:</p> <p>Rights are not gifts from government\u2014they exist independently and must be defended Collective action is more powerful than individual resistance Legal strategy must be combined with political mobilization Long-term vision is essential for sustained resistance Cultural values provide the foundation for political action</p>","tags":["Treaty rights","sovereignty","First Nations","separation"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/indigenous-nations-stand-against-ucp-authoritarianism/#building-solidarity","title":"Building Solidarity","text":"<p>Effective solidarity with Indigenous Nations requires: - Respect for Indigenous sovereignty and leadership - Education about Treaty history and Indigenous law - Action supporting Indigenous-led initiatives - Accountability to Indigenous communities in our work</p>","tags":["Treaty rights","sovereignty","First Nations","separation"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/indigenous-nations-stand-against-ucp-authoritarianism/#conclusion","title":"Conclusion","text":"<p>The unified Indigenous opposition to Bill 54 represents some of the strongest leadership in the fight for democracy in Alberta. Indigenous Nations understand the stakes because they have the most experience with colonial authoritarianism.</p> <p>Their clear stance\u2014that Treaties are not negotiable and that separation threatens Indigenous sovereignty\u2014provides a principled foundation for broader resistance to the UCP's anti-democratic agenda.</p> <p>For non-Indigenous Albertans, supporting Indigenous leadership in this fight isn't just the right thing to do\u2014it's strategically essential. Indigenous Nations have the legal tools, political experience, and moral authority to lead the challenge to Bill 54.</p> <p>When Indigenous Nations lead the fight for rights and democracy, all Albertans benefit.</p> <p>The question for non-Indigenous Albertans is simple: Will we follow Indigenous leadership in defending democracy, or will we allow the UCP to undermine the constitutional foundations that protect all our rights?</p> <p>This analysis draws on public statements from Indigenous Nations across Alberta opposing Bill 54. For full documentation, see our archive.</p>","tags":["Treaty rights","sovereignty","First Nations","separation"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/","title":"Defending Local Democracy Against UCP Centralization","text":"","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#how-the-ucp-is-destroying-community-self-governance","title":"How the UCP is Destroying Community Self-Governance","text":"<p>The UCP's assault on democracy extends far beyond provincial elections. Through Bill 54 and the earlier Bill 20, the Smith government is systematically dismantling local democratic control and centralizing power in the Premier's office. This represents one of the most dangerous aspects of their authoritarian agenda.</p>","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#the-attack-on-municipal-autonomy","title":"The Attack on Municipal Autonomy","text":"","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#bill-20-the-foundation-of-municipal-control","title":"Bill 20: The Foundation of Municipal Control","text":"<p>Before Bill 54, the UCP laid the groundwork for municipal control through Bill 20, which gave cabinet unprecedented power over local governments:</p> <ul> <li>Power to fire mayors and councillors without cause</li> <li>Authority to overturn municipal bylaws that displease the province</li> <li>Control over municipal boundaries and administrative structures</li> <li>Veto power over municipal decisions on any issue</li> </ul>","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#bill-54-completing-the-takeover","title":"Bill 54: Completing the Takeover","text":"<p>Bill 54 builds on this foundation by introducing political parties to municipal elections for the first time in Alberta history. This seemingly small change has enormous implications for local democracy.</p>","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#why-non-partisan-local-elections-matter","title":"Why Non-Partisan Local Elections Matter","text":"","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#the-traditional-alberta-approach","title":"The Traditional Alberta Approach","text":"<p>Municipal elections in Alberta have historically been non-partisan because:</p> <p>Local issues don't follow party lines:</p> <ul> <li>Road maintenance, water systems, and garbage collection aren't \"conservative\" or \"progressive\"</li> <li>Zoning decisions should be based on community needs, not partisan ideology</li> <li>Local budgets require practical solutions, not ideological positions</li> </ul> <p>Community-based representation:</p> <ul> <li>Councillors could focus on their neighborhoods rather than party discipline</li> <li>Voters could evaluate candidates based on local knowledge and commitment</li> <li>Decision-making could be collaborative rather than adversarial</li> </ul> <p>Reduced outside influence:</p> <ul> <li>Candidates relied on local support rather than party fundraising</li> <li>Policy platforms reflected community priorities rather than provincial agendas</li> <li>Local business interests couldn't hide behind party affiliations</li> </ul>","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#what-partisan-elections-will-destroy","title":"What Partisan Elections Will Destroy","text":"<p>Community consensus-building: Instead of working together on local issues, councillors will be divided by party lines imported from provincial and federal politics.</p> <p>Local accountability: Councillors will answer to party leadership rather than their neighborhoods, reducing responsiveness to community concerns.</p> <p>Independent decision-making: Municipal decisions will be influenced by provincial party priorities rather than local needs and circumstances.</p> <p>Grassroots participation: Local politics will become dominated by party organizations rather than community groups and neighborhood associations.</p>","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#the-corporate-connection","title":"The Corporate Connection","text":"","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#how-big-money-invades-local-politics","title":"How Big Money Invades Local Politics","text":"<p>The combination of partisan municipal elections and corporate donations up to $5,000 per entity creates a perfect storm for corporate control:</p> <p>Development Industry Capture:</p> <ul> <li>Real estate developers can donate heavily to pro-development candidates</li> <li>Municipal planning becomes subject to corporate influence rather than community input</li> <li>Environmental protections are weakened by corporate-backed councillors</li> </ul> <p>Resource Industry Influence:</p> <ul> <li>Oil and gas companies can influence municipal decisions on pipelines and facilities</li> <li>Environmental assessments become subject to corporate pressure</li> <li>Community opposition to industrial projects faces well-funded opposition</li> </ul> <p>Chain Store and Big Box Dominance:</p> <ul> <li>Large retailers can influence zoning decisions to favor big box developments</li> <li>Local business interests are overwhelmed by corporate campaign spending</li> <li>Downtown revitalization efforts face opposition from suburban developers</li> </ul>","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#case-study-what-this-looks-like","title":"Case Study: What This Looks Like","text":"<p>Imagine a municipal election in a mid-sized Alberta city:</p> <p>Before Bill 54:</p> <ul> <li>Local candidates run on platforms addressing traffic, housing, and community services</li> <li>A local small business owner runs against a retired teacher and a community volunteer</li> <li>Campaigns focus on door-to-door canvassing and community forums</li> <li>Funding comes from small local donations and volunteer effort</li> </ul> <p>After Bill 54:</p> <ul> <li>Candidates must align with UCP or NDP to access party resources</li> <li>A developer-backed UCP candidate faces an environmentalist NDP candidate</li> <li>Campaigns are funded by corporate donations and run by party organizers</li> <li>Local issues become proxy battles for provincial political conflicts</li> </ul> <p>The community loses local representation and gains partisan division.</p>","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#the-rural-urban-divide-strategy","title":"The Rural-Urban Divide Strategy","text":"","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#dividing-communities-against-each-other","title":"Dividing Communities Against Each Other","text":"<p>The UCP's municipal strategy deliberately exploits and amplifies rural-urban tensions:</p> <p>In Rural Areas:</p> <ul> <li>UCP-affiliated candidates campaign against \"urban elites\" and \"environmental extremists\"</li> <li>Local agricultural concerns are subordinated to resource extraction industry interests</li> <li>Traditional rural independence is replaced by partisan conformity</li> <li>Federal and provincial grievances are imported into local elections</li> </ul> <p>In Urban Areas:</p> <ul> <li>Corporate-backed candidates oppose transit, affordable housing, and environmental initiatives</li> <li>Suburban development interests are pitted against urban intensification</li> <li>Municipal climate action becomes a partisan issue rather than practical planning</li> <li>Progressive policies face coordinated opposition funded by corporate interests</li> </ul>","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#the-real-winners-and-losers","title":"The Real Winners and Losers","text":"<p>Winners:</p> <ul> <li>Corporate donors who can buy influence at the local level</li> <li>Provincial party organizers who gain control over municipal agendas</li> <li>Development industry facing less community resistance to projects</li> <li>Resource extraction companies with municipal allies against environmental regulation</li> </ul> <p>Losers:</p> <ul> <li>Local communities losing control over their own governance</li> <li>Small businesses unable to compete with corporate-backed candidates</li> <li>Environmental groups facing well-funded opposition at every level</li> <li>Working families whose neighborhood concerns are ignored in favor of donor interests</li> </ul>","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#historical-context-the-importance-of-local-democracy","title":"Historical Context: The Importance of Local Democracy","text":"","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#learning-from-history","title":"Learning from History","text":"<p>Strong local democracy has historically been crucial for:</p> <p>Economic Development:</p> <ul> <li>Community-controlled development that benefits local residents</li> <li>Support for local businesses and cooperative enterprises</li> <li>Investment in infrastructure that serves community needs</li> </ul> <p>Social Progress:</p> <ul> <li>Municipal leadership on issues like public health and education</li> <li>Local innovation in social programs and community services</li> <li>Protection of marginalized communities through local policy</li> </ul> <p>Environmental Protection:</p> <ul> <li>Community-based environmental stewardship</li> <li>Local resistance to harmful industrial projects</li> <li>Municipal climate action and sustainability initiatives</li> </ul> <p>Democratic Participation:</p> <ul> <li>Training ground for civic engagement and political participation</li> <li>Accessible entry point for working-class and marginalized candidates</li> <li>Laboratory for democratic innovation and community organizing</li> </ul>","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#international-examples","title":"International Examples","text":"<p>Around the world, strong local democracy has been essential for:</p> <ul> <li>Participatory budgeting in Brazil and Spain</li> <li>Community land trusts in the UK and US</li> <li>Municipal socialism in cities like Preston, Barcelona, and Jackson</li> <li>Indigenous self-governance in communities worldwide</li> </ul>","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#the-social-democratic-alternative","title":"The Social Democratic Alternative","text":"","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#what-democratic-municipal-reform-looks-like","title":"What Democratic Municipal Reform Looks Like","text":"<p>Protecting Municipal Autonomy:</p> <ul> <li>Constitutional protection for municipal self-governance</li> <li>Limits on provincial interference in local decisions</li> <li>Guaranteed municipal revenue sources independent of provincial control</li> </ul> <p>Expanding Democratic Participation:</p> <ul> <li>Proportional representation in municipal elections</li> <li>Participatory budgeting for community priorities</li> <li>Citizens' assemblies on major local issues</li> <li>Neighborhood councils with real decision-making power</li> </ul> <p>Getting Money Out of Local Politics:</p> <ul> <li>Public financing of municipal campaigns</li> <li>Strict limits on donations from any source</li> <li>Real-time disclosure of campaign contributions</li> <li>Strong enforcement of campaign finance rules</li> </ul> <p>Community-Controlled Development:</p> <ul> <li>Community land trusts to prevent speculation</li> <li>Inclusionary zoning for affordable housing</li> <li>Local procurement policies supporting community businesses</li> <li>Environmental assessment with meaningful community input</li> </ul>","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#examples-of-democratic-municipal-innovation","title":"Examples of Democratic Municipal Innovation","text":"<p>Porto Alegre, Brazil: Participatory budgeting allows residents to directly decide municipal spending priorities through neighborhood assemblies and city-wide votes.</p> <p>Barcelona, Spain: \"Barcelona en Com\u00fa\" created a municipal platform that combines neighborhood activism with city-wide governance, prioritizing housing rights and environmental justice.</p> <p>Preston, England: \"Community wealth building\" policies redirect municipal spending to local cooperatives and social enterprises, keeping money circulating in the community.</p> <p>Jackson, Mississippi: The \"Jackson Plan\" combines electoral organizing with cooperative economic development and community land trusts.</p>","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#fighting-back-strategies-for-local-democracy","title":"Fighting Back: Strategies for Local Democracy","text":"","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#legal-resistance","title":"Legal Resistance","text":"<ul> <li>Constitutional challenges to Bills 20 and 54</li> <li>Court injunctions against provincial interference in municipal decisions</li> <li>Support for municipalities defending their autonomy through legal action</li> </ul>","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#electoral-strategy","title":"Electoral Strategy","text":"<ul> <li>Support non-partisan candidates committed to community representation</li> <li>Run candidates who prioritize local concerns over party politics</li> <li>Build local coalitions that transcend provincial party lines</li> <li>Organize voter education about the importance of local democracy</li> </ul>","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#community-organizing","title":"Community Organizing","text":"<ul> <li>Strengthen neighborhood associations and community groups</li> <li>Create participatory processes for municipal decision-making</li> <li>Build local coalitions around specific community issues</li> <li>Develop alternative economic institutions like cooperatives and land trusts</li> </ul>","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#policy-advocacy","title":"Policy Advocacy","text":"<ul> <li>Demand municipal autonomy protection in provincial legislation</li> <li>Support proportional representation and other democratic reforms</li> <li>Advocate for campaign finance reform at the municipal level</li> <li>Push for participatory budgeting and other community engagement tools</li> </ul>","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#building-the-movement","title":"Building the Movement","text":"","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#coalition-building","title":"Coalition Building","text":"<p>The fight for local democracy requires unity among:</p> <ul> <li>Neighborhood associations defending community character</li> <li>Environmental groups protecting local ecosystems</li> <li>Small businesses opposing corporate dominance</li> <li>Housing advocates fighting for affordable communities</li> <li>Workers' organizations supporting democratic participation</li> </ul>","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#community-education","title":"Community Education","text":"<ul> <li>Workshops on municipal government and how to get involved</li> <li>Forums connecting local issues to broader democratic concerns</li> <li>Training in community organizing and political engagement</li> <li>Media highlighting the importance of local democracy</li> </ul>","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#direct-action","title":"Direct Action","text":"<ul> <li>Attending council meetings and participating in public comment</li> <li>Organizing petitions and community campaigns on local issues</li> <li>Peaceful protests against anti-democratic provincial interference</li> <li>Community forums creating space for democratic participation</li> </ul>","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#the-stakes-for-communities","title":"The Stakes for Communities","text":"","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#what-we-stand-to-lose","title":"What We Stand to Lose","text":"<ul> <li>Community control over development and growth</li> <li>Environmental protection based on local knowledge and values</li> <li>Affordable housing and supports for working families</li> <li>Local business and cooperative economic development</li> <li>Democratic participation accessible to ordinary residents</li> </ul>","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#what-we-can-win","title":"What We Can Win","text":"<ul> <li>Real community power over local decisions</li> <li>Sustainable development that serves residents rather than developers</li> <li>Economic democracy through cooperatives and community ownership</li> <li>Environmental justice protecting local ecosystems and public health</li> <li>Inclusive governance that centers marginalized voices</li> </ul>","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"blog/2025/05/29/defending-local-democracy-against-ucp-centralization/#conclusion","title":"Conclusion","text":"<p>The UCP's attack on local democracy through Bills 20 and 54 represents an existential threat to community self-governance in Alberta. By centralizing power and introducing corporate money into municipal politics, they are destroying the foundations of democratic participation at the most accessible level.</p> <p>But communities across Alberta are fighting back. From Indigenous Nations asserting sovereignty to municipalities defending autonomy to neighborhood groups organizing for community control, the movement for local democracy is growing.</p> <p>The future of our communities depends on defending local democracy today.</p> <p>Municipal elections may seem small compared to provincial and federal politics, but they're where democracy is most real and immediate for most people. They're where we decide how our neighborhoods grow, how our tax dollars are spent, and what kind of communities we want to live in.</p> <p>The UCP wants to take that power away from communities and give it to corporations and party organizations. We can't let that happen.</p> <p>Local democracy is the foundation of all democracy. If we lose it at the community level, we lose it everywhere.</p> <p>This analysis draws on municipal democracy research and the documented impacts of Bills 20 and 54. For more information, see our resources page and archive.</p>","tags":["local democracy","municipal autonomy","centralization","community control"]},{"location":"cm-lite/","title":"Welcome to Changemaker Lite","text":"<p>A streamlined, self-hosted platform for documentation and development.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/#quick-start","title":"Quick Start","text":"<p>Get up and running in minutes:</p> <pre><code># Clone the repository\ngit clone https://gitea.bnkhome.org/admin/changemaker.lite.git\ncd changemaker.lite\n\n# Configure environment\n./config.sh\n\n# Start all services\ndocker compose up -d\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"cm-lite/#contributing-to-this-platform","title":"Contributing to This Platform","text":"<p>This Changemaker Lite setup is actively used by the Alberta Democracy Taskforce and welcomes contributions from the community. Whether you want to improve the platform itself or use it for your own organization's needs, we'd love your input.</p> <p>Get involved: - Report issues or suggest improvements - Contribute code enhancements  - Share how you've adapted it for your needs - Help make collaborative documentation easier for everyone</p> <p>See our contributing guide to get started, or dive directly into the repository.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/#services","title":"Services","text":"<p>Changemaker Lite includes these essential services:</p> <ul> <li>Homepage (Port 3010) - Service dashboard and monitoring</li> <li>Code Server (Port 8888) - VS Code in your browser</li> <li>MkDocs (Port 4000) - Documentation with live preview  </li> <li>Static Server (Port 4001) - Built site hosting</li> <li>Listmonk (Port 9000) - Newsletter management</li> <li>PostgreSQL (Port 5432) - Database backend</li> <li>n8n (Port 5678) - Workflow automation</li> <li>NocoDB (Port 8090) - No-code database platform</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/#getting-started","title":"Getting Started","text":"<ol> <li>Documentation: Start writing in Code Server</li> <li>Preview: See live changes at MkDocs</li> <li>Production: View built site at Static Server</li> <li>Email: Set up campaigns with Listmonk</li> <li>Automation: Create workflows in n8n</li> </ol>"},{"location":"cm-lite/#project-structure","title":"Project Structure","text":"<pre><code>changemaker.lite/\n\u251c\u2500\u2500 docker-compose.yml    # Service definitions\n\u251c\u2500\u2500 config.sh            # Setup script\n\u251c\u2500\u2500 mkdocs/              # Documentation source\n\u2502   \u251c\u2500\u2500 docs/            # Markdown files\n\u2502   \u2514\u2500\u2500 mkdocs.yml       # Configuration\n\u251c\u2500\u2500 configs/             # Service configurations\n\u2514\u2500\u2500 assets/              # Shared assets\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"cm-lite/#learn-more","title":"Learn More","text":"<ul> <li>Services Overview - Detailed service documentation</li> <li>Blog - Updates and tutorials</li> <li>Git Repository - Source code and issues</li> <li>Contributing Guide - How to get involved</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/","title":"Services","text":"<p>Changemaker Lite includes several powerful services that work together to provide a complete documentation and development platform. Each service is containerized and can be accessed through its dedicated port.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/#available-services","title":"Available Services","text":""},{"location":"cm-lite/services/#code-server","title":"Code Server","text":"<p>Port: 8888 | Visual Studio Code in your browser for remote development - Full IDE experience - Extensions support - Git integration - Terminal access</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/#listmonk","title":"Listmonk","text":"<p>Port: 9000 | Self-hosted newsletter and mailing list manager - Email campaigns - Subscriber management - Analytics - Template system</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/#postgresql","title":"PostgreSQL","text":"<p>Port: 5432 | Reliable database backend - Data persistence for Listmonk - ACID compliance - High performance - Backup and restore capabilities</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/#mkdocs-material","title":"MkDocs Material","text":"<p>Port: 4000 | Documentation site generator with live preview - Material Design theme - Live reload - Search functionality - Markdown support</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/#static-site-server","title":"Static Site Server","text":"<p>Port: 4001 | Nginx-powered static site hosting - High-performance serving - Built documentation hosting - Caching and compression - Security headers</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/#n8n","title":"n8n","text":"<p>Port: 5678 | Workflow automation tool - Visual workflow editor - 400+ integrations - Custom code execution - Webhook support</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/#nocodb","title":"NocoDB","text":"<p>Port: 8090 | No-code database platform - Smart spreadsheet interface - Form builder and API generation - Real-time collaboration - Multi-database support</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/#homepage","title":"Homepage","text":"<p>Port: 3010 | Modern dashboard for all services - Service dashboard and monitoring - Docker integration - Customizable layout - Quick search and bookmarks</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/#service-architecture","title":"Service Architecture","text":"<pre><code>\u250c\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2510    \u250c\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2510    \u250c\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2510\n\u2502   Homepage      \u2502    \u2502   Code Server   \u2502    \u2502     MkDocs      \u2502\n\u2502     :3010       \u2502    \u2502     :8888       \u2502    \u2502     :4000       \u2502\n\u2514\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2518    \u2514\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2518    \u2514\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2518\n\n\u250c\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2510    \u250c\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2510    \u250c\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2510\n\u2502 Static Server   \u2502    \u2502    Listmonk     \u2502    \u2502      n8n        \u2502\n\u2502     :4001       \u2502    \u2502     :9000       \u2502    \u2502     :5678       \u2502\n\u2514\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2518    \u2514\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2518    \u2514\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2518\n\n\u250c\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2510    \u250c\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2510    \u250c\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2510\n\u2502     NocoDB      \u2502    \u2502 PostgreSQL      \u2502    \u2502 PostgreSQL      \u2502\n\u2502     :8090       \u2502    \u2502 (listmonk-db)   \u2502    \u2502 (root_db)       \u2502\n\u2514\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2518    \u2502     :5432       \u2502    \u2502     :5432       \u2502\n         \u2502              \u2514\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2518    \u2514\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2518\n         \u2514\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2500\u2518\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/#getting-started","title":"Getting Started","text":"<ol> <li>Start all services: <code>docker compose up -d</code></li> <li>Check service status: <code>docker compose ps</code></li> <li>View logs: <code>docker compose logs [service-name]</code></li> <li>Stop services: <code>docker compose down</code></li> </ol>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/#service-dependencies","title":"Service Dependencies","text":"<ul> <li>Listmonk depends on PostgreSQL (listmonk-db)</li> <li>NocoDB depends on PostgreSQL (root_db)</li> <li>Static Server serves content built by MkDocs</li> <li>n8n can integrate with all other services</li> <li>All services share the <code>changemaker</code> network</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/#environment-configuration","title":"Environment Configuration","text":"<p>Services are configured through environment variables in your <code>.env</code> file:</p> <pre><code># Port configurations\nCODE_SERVER_PORT=8888\nLISTMONK_PORT=9000\nLISTMONK_DB_PORT=5432\nMKDOCS_PORT=4000\nMKDOCS_SITE_SERVER_PORT=4001\nN8N_PORT=5678\n\n# User and group IDs\nUSER_ID=1000\nGROUP_ID=1000\n\n# Database configuration\nPOSTGRES_USER=listmonk\nPOSTGRES_PASSWORD=your_password\nPOSTGRES_DB=listmonk\n\n# n8n configuration\nN8N_ENCRYPTION_KEY=your_encryption_key\nN8N_USER_EMAIL=admin@example.com\nN8N_USER_PASSWORD=your_password\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/#monitoring-and-maintenance","title":"Monitoring and Maintenance","text":""},{"location":"cm-lite/services/#health-checks","title":"Health Checks","text":"<pre><code># Check all services\ndocker compose ps\n\n# Check specific service logs\ndocker compose logs listmonk-app\ndocker compose logs code-server\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/#updates","title":"Updates","text":"<pre><code># Pull latest images\ndocker compose pull\n\n# Restart with new images\ndocker compose down &amp;&amp; docker compose up -d\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/#backups","title":"Backups","text":"<ul> <li>PostgreSQL: Regular database backups</li> <li>n8n: Export workflows and credentials</li> <li>Code Server: Backup configuration and workspace</li> <li>MkDocs: Version control your documentation</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/#troubleshooting","title":"Troubleshooting","text":""},{"location":"cm-lite/services/#common-issues","title":"Common Issues","text":"<ol> <li>Port Conflicts: Ensure ports are not used by other applications</li> <li>Permission Issues: Check <code>USER_ID</code> and <code>GROUP_ID</code> settings</li> <li>Network Issues: Verify services can communicate through the <code>changemaker</code> network</li> <li>Data Persistence: Ensure volumes are properly mounted</li> </ol>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/#getting-help","title":"Getting Help","text":"<ul> <li>Check individual service documentation</li> <li>Review container logs for error messages</li> <li>Verify environment variable configuration</li> <li>Test network connectivity between services</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/code-server/","title":"Code Server","text":"<p>Visual Studio Code in your browser for remote development.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/code-server/#overview","title":"Overview","text":"<p>Code Server provides a full Visual Studio Code experience in your web browser, allowing you to develop from any device. It runs on your server and provides access to your development environment through a web interface.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/code-server/#features","title":"Features","text":"<ul> <li>Full VS Code experience in the browser</li> <li>Extensions support</li> <li>Terminal access</li> <li>Git integration</li> <li>File editing and management</li> <li>Multi-language support</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/code-server/#access","title":"Access","text":"<ul> <li>Default Port: 8888</li> <li>URL: <code>http://localhost:8888</code></li> <li>Default Workspace: <code>/home/coder/mkdocs/</code></li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/code-server/#configuration","title":"Configuration","text":""},{"location":"cm-lite/services/code-server/#environment-variables","title":"Environment Variables","text":"<ul> <li><code>DOCKER_USER</code>: The user to run code-server as (default: <code>coder</code>)</li> <li><code>DEFAULT_WORKSPACE</code>: Default workspace directory</li> <li><code>USER_ID</code>: User ID for file permissions</li> <li><code>GROUP_ID</code>: Group ID for file permissions</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/code-server/#volumes","title":"Volumes","text":"<ul> <li><code>./configs/code-server/.config</code>: VS Code configuration</li> <li><code>./configs/code-server/.local</code>: Local data</li> <li><code>./mkdocs</code>: Main workspace directory</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/code-server/#usage","title":"Usage","text":"<ol> <li>Access Code Server at <code>http://localhost:8888</code></li> <li>Open the <code>/home/coder/mkdocs/</code> workspace</li> <li>Start editing your documentation files</li> <li>Install extensions as needed</li> <li>Use the integrated terminal for commands</li> </ol>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/code-server/#useful-extensions","title":"Useful Extensions","text":"<p>Consider installing these extensions for better documentation work:</p> <ul> <li>Markdown All in One</li> <li>Material Design Icons</li> <li>GitLens</li> <li>Docker</li> <li>YAML</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/code-server/#official-documentation","title":"Official Documentation","text":"<p>For more detailed information, visit the official Code Server documentation.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/homepage/","title":"Homepage","text":"<p>Modern dashboard for accessing all your self-hosted services.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/homepage/#overview","title":"Overview","text":"<p>Homepage is a modern, fully static, fast, secure fully configurable application dashboard with integrations for over 100 services. It provides a beautiful and customizable interface to access all your Changemaker Lite services from a single location.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/homepage/#features","title":"Features","text":"<ul> <li>Service Dashboard: Central hub for all your applications</li> <li>Docker Integration: Automatic service discovery and monitoring</li> <li>Customizable Layout: Flexible grid-based layout system</li> <li>Service Widgets: Live status and metrics for services</li> <li>Quick Search: Fast navigation with built-in search</li> <li>Bookmarks: Organize frequently used links</li> <li>Dark/Light Themes: Multiple color schemes available</li> <li>Responsive Design: Works on desktop and mobile devices</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/homepage/#access","title":"Access","text":"<ul> <li>Default Port: 3010</li> <li>URL: <code>http://localhost:3010</code></li> <li>Configuration: YAML-based configuration files</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/homepage/#configuration","title":"Configuration","text":""},{"location":"cm-lite/services/homepage/#environment-variables","title":"Environment Variables","text":"<ul> <li><code>HOMEPAGE_PORT</code>: External port mapping (default: 3010)</li> <li><code>PUID</code>: User ID for file permissions (default: 1000)</li> <li><code>PGID</code>: Group ID for file permissions (default: 1000)</li> <li><code>TZ</code>: Timezone setting (default: Etc/UTC)</li> <li><code>HOMEPAGE_ALLOWED_HOSTS</code>: Allowed hosts for the dashboard</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/homepage/#configuration-files","title":"Configuration Files","text":"<p>Homepage uses YAML configuration files located in <code>./configs/homepage/</code>:</p> <ul> <li><code>settings.yaml</code>: Global settings and theme configuration</li> <li><code>services.yaml</code>: Service definitions and widgets</li> <li><code>bookmarks.yaml</code>: Bookmark categories and links</li> <li><code>widgets.yaml</code>: Dashboard widgets configuration</li> <li><code>docker.yaml</code>: Docker integration settings</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/homepage/#volumes","title":"Volumes","text":"<ul> <li><code>./configs/homepage:/app/config</code>: Configuration files</li> <li><code>./assets/icons:/app/public/icons</code>: Custom service icons</li> <li><code>./assets/images:/app/public/images</code>: Background images and assets</li> <li><code>/var/run/docker.sock:/var/run/docker.sock</code>: Docker socket for container monitoring</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/homepage/#changemaker-lite-services","title":"Changemaker Lite Services","text":"<p>Homepage is pre-configured with all Changemaker Lite services:</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/homepage/#essential-tools","title":"Essential Tools","text":"<ul> <li>Code Server (Port 8888): VS Code in the browser</li> <li>Listmonk (Port 9000): Newsletter &amp; mailing list manager</li> <li>NocoDB (Port 8090): No-code database platform</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/homepage/#content-documentation","title":"Content &amp; Documentation","text":"<ul> <li>MkDocs (Port 4000): Live documentation server</li> <li>Static Site (Port 4001): Built documentation hosting</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/homepage/#automation-data","title":"Automation &amp; Data","text":"<ul> <li>n8n (Port 5678): Workflow automation platform</li> <li>PostgreSQL (Port 5432): Database backends</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/homepage/#customization","title":"Customization","text":""},{"location":"cm-lite/services/homepage/#adding-custom-services","title":"Adding Custom Services","text":"<p>Edit <code>configs/homepage/services.yaml</code> to add new services:</p> <pre><code>- Custom Category:\n    - My Service:\n        href: http://localhost:8080\n        description: Custom service description\n        icon: mdi-application\n        widget:\n          type: ping\n          url: http://localhost:8080\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/homepage/#custom-icons","title":"Custom Icons","text":"<p>Add custom icons to <code>./assets/icons/</code> directory and reference them in services.yaml:</p> <pre><code>icon: /icons/my-custom-icon.png\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/homepage/#themes-and-styling","title":"Themes and Styling","text":"<p>Modify <code>configs/homepage/settings.yaml</code> to customize appearance:</p> <pre><code>theme: dark  # or light\ncolor: purple  # slate, gray, zinc, neutral, stone, red, orange, amber, yellow, lime, green, emerald, teal, cyan, sky, blue, indigo, violet, purple, fuchsia, pink, rose\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/homepage/#widgets","title":"Widgets","text":"<p>Enable live monitoring widgets in <code>configs/homepage/services.yaml</code>:</p> <pre><code>- Service Name:\n    widget:\n      type: docker\n      container: container-name\n      server: my-docker\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/homepage/#service-monitoring","title":"Service Monitoring","text":"<p>Homepage can display real-time status information for your services:</p> <ul> <li>Docker Integration: Container status and resource usage</li> <li>HTTP Ping: Service availability monitoring</li> <li>Custom APIs: Integration with service-specific APIs</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/homepage/#docker-integration","title":"Docker Integration","text":"<p>Homepage monitors Docker containers automatically when configured:</p> <ol> <li>Ensure Docker socket is mounted (<code>/var/run/docker.sock</code>)</li> <li>Configure container mappings in <code>docker.yaml</code></li> <li>Add widget configurations to <code>services.yaml</code></li> </ol>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/homepage/#security-considerations","title":"Security Considerations","text":"<ul> <li>Homepage runs with limited privileges</li> <li>Configuration files should have appropriate permissions</li> <li>Consider network isolation for production deployments</li> <li>Use HTTPS for external access</li> <li>Regularly update the Homepage image</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/homepage/#troubleshooting","title":"Troubleshooting","text":""},{"location":"cm-lite/services/homepage/#common-issues","title":"Common Issues","text":"<p>Configuration not loading: Check YAML syntax in configuration files <pre><code>docker logs homepage-changemaker\n</code></pre></p> <p>Icons not displaying: Verify icon paths and file permissions <pre><code>ls -la ./assets/icons/\n</code></pre></p> <p>Services not reachable: Verify network connectivity between containers <pre><code>docker exec homepage-changemaker ping service-name\n</code></pre></p> <p>Widget data not updating: Check Docker socket permissions and container access <pre><code>docker exec homepage-changemaker ls -la /var/run/docker.sock\n</code></pre></p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/homepage/#configuration-examples","title":"Configuration Examples","text":""},{"location":"cm-lite/services/homepage/#basic-service-widget","title":"Basic Service Widget","text":"<pre><code>- Code Server:\n    href: http://localhost:8888\n    description: VS Code in the browser\n    icon: code-server\n    widget:\n      type: docker\n      container: code-server-changemaker\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/homepage/#custom-dashboard-layout","title":"Custom Dashboard Layout","text":"<pre><code># settings.yaml\nlayout:\n  style: columns\n  columns: 3\n\n# Responsive breakpoints\nresponsive:\n  mobile: 1\n  tablet: 2\n  desktop: 3\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/homepage/#official-documentation","title":"Official Documentation","text":"<p>For comprehensive configuration guides and advanced features: - Homepage Documentation - GitHub Repository - Configuration Examples - Widget Integrations</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/listmonk/","title":"Listmonk","text":"<p>Self-hosted newsletter and mailing list manager.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/listmonk/#overview","title":"Overview","text":"<p>Listmonk is a modern, feature-rich newsletter and mailing list manager designed for high performance and easy management. It provides a complete solution for email campaigns, subscriber management, and analytics.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/listmonk/#features","title":"Features","text":"<ul> <li>Newsletter and email campaign management</li> <li>Subscriber list management</li> <li>Template system with HTML/markdown support</li> <li>Campaign analytics and tracking</li> <li>API for integration</li> <li>Multi-list support</li> <li>Bounce handling</li> <li>Privacy-focused design</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/listmonk/#access","title":"Access","text":"<ul> <li>Default Port: 9000</li> <li>URL: <code>http://localhost:9000</code></li> <li>Admin User: Set via <code>LISTMONK_ADMIN_USER</code> environment variable</li> <li>Admin Password: Set via <code>LISTMONK_ADMIN_PASSWORD</code> environment variable</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/listmonk/#configuration","title":"Configuration","text":""},{"location":"cm-lite/services/listmonk/#environment-variables","title":"Environment Variables","text":"<ul> <li><code>LISTMONK_ADMIN_USER</code>: Admin username</li> <li><code>LISTMONK_ADMIN_PASSWORD</code>: Admin password</li> <li><code>POSTGRES_USER</code>: Database username</li> <li><code>POSTGRES_PASSWORD</code>: Database password</li> <li><code>POSTGRES_DB</code>: Database name</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/listmonk/#database","title":"Database","text":"<p>Listmonk uses PostgreSQL as its backend database. The database is automatically configured through the docker-compose setup.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/listmonk/#uploads","title":"Uploads","text":"<ul> <li>Upload directory: <code>./assets/uploads</code></li> <li>Used for media files, templates, and attachments</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/listmonk/#getting-started","title":"Getting Started","text":"<ol> <li>Access Listmonk at <code>http://localhost:9000</code></li> <li>Log in with your admin credentials</li> <li>Set up your first mailing list</li> <li>Configure SMTP settings for sending emails</li> <li>Import subscribers or create subscription forms</li> <li>Create your first campaign</li> </ol>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/listmonk/#important-notes","title":"Important Notes","text":"<ul> <li>Configure SMTP settings before sending emails</li> <li>Set up proper domain authentication (SPF, DKIM) for better deliverability</li> <li>Regularly backup your subscriber data and campaigns</li> <li>Monitor bounce rates and maintain list hygiene</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/listmonk/#official-documentation","title":"Official Documentation","text":"<p>For comprehensive guides and API documentation, visit: - Listmonk Documentation - GitHub Repository</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/mkdocs/","title":"MkDocs Material","text":"<p>Modern documentation site generator with live preview.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/mkdocs/#overview","title":"Overview","text":"<p>MkDocs Material is a powerful documentation framework built on top of MkDocs, providing a beautiful Material Design theme and advanced features for creating professional documentation sites.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/mkdocs/#features","title":"Features","text":"<ul> <li>Material Design theme</li> <li>Live preview during development</li> <li>Search functionality</li> <li>Navigation and organization</li> <li>Code syntax highlighting</li> <li>Mathematical expressions support</li> <li>Responsive design</li> <li>Customizable themes and colors</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/mkdocs/#access","title":"Access","text":"<ul> <li>Development Port: 4000</li> <li>Development URL: <code>http://localhost:4000</code></li> <li>Live Reload: Automatically refreshes on file changes</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/mkdocs/#configuration","title":"Configuration","text":""},{"location":"cm-lite/services/mkdocs/#main-configuration","title":"Main Configuration","text":"<p>Configuration is managed through <code>mkdocs.yml</code> in the project root.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/mkdocs/#volumes","title":"Volumes","text":"<ul> <li><code>./mkdocs</code>: Documentation source files</li> <li><code>./assets/images</code>: Shared images directory</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/mkdocs/#environment-variables","title":"Environment Variables","text":"<ul> <li><code>SITE_URL</code>: Base domain for the site</li> <li><code>USER_ID</code>: User ID for file permissions</li> <li><code>GROUP_ID</code>: Group ID for file permissions</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/mkdocs/#directory-structure","title":"Directory Structure","text":"<pre><code>mkdocs/\n\u251c\u2500\u2500 mkdocs.yml          # Configuration file\n\u251c\u2500\u2500 docs/               # Documentation source\n\u2502   \u251c\u2500\u2500 index.md       # Homepage\n\u2502   \u251c\u2500\u2500 services/      # Service documentation\n\u2502   \u251c\u2500\u2500 blog/          # Blog posts\n\u2502   \u2514\u2500\u2500 overrides/     # Template overrides\n\u2514\u2500\u2500 site/              # Built static site\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/mkdocs/#writing-documentation","title":"Writing Documentation","text":""},{"location":"cm-lite/services/mkdocs/#markdown-basics","title":"Markdown Basics","text":"<ul> <li>Use standard Markdown syntax</li> <li>Support for tables, code blocks, and links</li> <li>Mathematical expressions with MathJax</li> <li>Admonitions for notes and warnings</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/mkdocs/#example-page","title":"Example Page","text":"<pre><code># Page Title\n\nThis is a sample documentation page.\n\n## Section\n\nContent goes here with **bold** and *italic* text.\n\n### Code Example\n\n```python\ndef hello_world():\n    print(\"Hello, World!\")\n</code></pre> <p>Note</p> <p>This is an informational note.</p> <pre><code>## Building and Deployment\n\n### Development\n\nThe development server runs automatically with live reload.\n\n### Building Static Site\n\n```bash\ndocker exec mkdocs-changemaker mkdocs build\n</code></pre> <p>The built site will be available in the <code>mkdocs/site/</code> directory.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/mkdocs/#customization","title":"Customization","text":""},{"location":"cm-lite/services/mkdocs/#themes-and-colors","title":"Themes and Colors","text":"<p>Customize appearance in <code>mkdocs.yml</code>:</p> <pre><code>theme:\n  name: material\n  palette:\n    primary: blue\n    accent: indigo\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/mkdocs/#custom-css","title":"Custom CSS","text":"<p>Add custom styles in <code>docs/stylesheets/extra.css</code>.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/mkdocs/#official-documentation","title":"Official Documentation","text":"<p>For comprehensive MkDocs Material documentation: - MkDocs Material - MkDocs Documentation - Markdown Guide</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/n8n/","title":"n8n","text":"<p>Workflow automation tool for connecting services and automating tasks.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/n8n/#overview","title":"Overview","text":"<p>n8n is a powerful workflow automation tool that allows you to connect various apps and services together. It provides a visual interface for creating automated workflows, making it easy to integrate different systems and automate repetitive tasks.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/n8n/#features","title":"Features","text":"<ul> <li>Visual workflow editor</li> <li>400+ integrations</li> <li>Custom code execution (JavaScript/Python)</li> <li>Webhook support</li> <li>Scheduled workflows</li> <li>Error handling and retries</li> <li>User management</li> <li>API access</li> <li>Self-hosted and privacy-focused</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/n8n/#access","title":"Access","text":"<ul> <li>Default Port: 5678</li> <li>URL: <code>http://localhost:5678</code></li> <li>Default User Email: Set via <code>N8N_DEFAULT_USER_EMAIL</code></li> <li>Default User Password: Set via <code>N8N_DEFAULT_USER_PASSWORD</code></li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/n8n/#configuration","title":"Configuration","text":""},{"location":"cm-lite/services/n8n/#environment-variables","title":"Environment Variables","text":"<ul> <li><code>N8N_HOST</code>: Hostname for n8n (default: <code>n8n.${DOMAIN}</code>)</li> <li><code>N8N_PORT</code>: Internal port (5678)</li> <li><code>N8N_PROTOCOL</code>: Protocol for webhooks (https)</li> <li><code>NODE_ENV</code>: Environment (production)</li> <li><code>WEBHOOK_URL</code>: Base URL for webhooks</li> <li><code>GENERIC_TIMEZONE</code>: Timezone setting</li> <li><code>N8N_ENCRYPTION_KEY</code>: Encryption key for credentials</li> <li><code>N8N_USER_MANAGEMENT_DISABLED</code>: Enable/disable user management</li> <li><code>N8N_DEFAULT_USER_EMAIL</code>: Default admin email</li> <li><code>N8N_DEFAULT_USER_PASSWORD</code>: Default admin password</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/n8n/#volumes","title":"Volumes","text":"<ul> <li><code>n8n_data</code>: Persistent data storage</li> <li><code>./local-files</code>: Local file access for workflows</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/n8n/#getting-started","title":"Getting Started","text":"<ol> <li>Access n8n at <code>http://localhost:5678</code></li> <li>Log in with your admin credentials</li> <li>Create your first workflow</li> <li>Add nodes for different services</li> <li>Configure connections between nodes</li> <li>Test and activate your workflow</li> </ol>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/n8n/#common-use-cases","title":"Common Use Cases","text":""},{"location":"cm-lite/services/n8n/#documentation-automation","title":"Documentation Automation","text":"<ul> <li>Auto-generate documentation from code comments</li> <li>Sync documentation between different platforms</li> <li>Notify team when documentation is updated</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/n8n/#email-campaign-integration","title":"Email Campaign Integration","text":"<ul> <li>Connect Listmonk with external data sources</li> <li>Automate subscriber management</li> <li>Trigger campaigns based on events</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/n8n/#database-management-with-nocodb","title":"Database Management with NocoDB","text":"<ul> <li>Sync data between NocoDB and external APIs</li> <li>Automate data entry and validation</li> <li>Create backup workflows for database content</li> <li>Generate reports from NocoDB data</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/n8n/#development-workflows","title":"Development Workflows","text":"<ul> <li>Auto-deploy documentation on git push</li> <li>Sync code changes with documentation</li> <li>Backup automation</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/n8n/#data-processing","title":"Data Processing","text":"<ul> <li>Process CSV files and import to databases</li> <li>Transform data between different formats</li> <li>Schedule regular data updates</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/n8n/#example-workflows","title":"Example Workflows","text":""},{"location":"cm-lite/services/n8n/#simple-webhook-to-email","title":"Simple Webhook to Email","text":"<pre><code>Webhook \u2192 Email\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/n8n/#scheduled-documentation-backup","title":"Scheduled Documentation Backup","text":"<pre><code>Schedule \u2192 Read Files \u2192 Compress \u2192 Upload to Storage\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/n8n/#git-integration","title":"Git Integration","text":"<pre><code>Git Webhook \u2192 Process Changes \u2192 Update Documentation \u2192 Notify Team\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/n8n/#security-considerations","title":"Security Considerations","text":"<ul> <li>Use strong encryption keys</li> <li>Secure webhook URLs</li> <li>Regularly update credentials</li> <li>Monitor workflow executions</li> <li>Implement proper error handling</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/n8n/#integration-with-other-services","title":"Integration with Other Services","text":"<p>n8n can integrate with all services in your Changemaker Lite setup: - Listmonk: Manage subscribers and campaigns - PostgreSQL: Read/write database operations - Code Server: File operations and git integration - MkDocs: Documentation generation and updates</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/n8n/#troubleshooting","title":"Troubleshooting","text":""},{"location":"cm-lite/services/n8n/#common-issues","title":"Common Issues","text":"<ul> <li>Workflow Execution Errors: Check node configurations and credentials</li> <li>Webhook Issues: Verify URLs and authentication</li> <li>Connection Problems: Check network connectivity between services</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/n8n/#debugging","title":"Debugging","text":"<pre><code># Check container logs\ndocker logs n8n-changemaker\n\n# Access container shell\ndocker exec -it n8n-changemaker sh\n\n# Check workflow executions in the UI\n# Visit http://localhost:5678 \u2192 Executions\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/n8n/#official-documentation","title":"Official Documentation","text":"<p>For comprehensive n8n documentation: - n8n Documentation - Community Workflows - Node Reference - GitHub Repository</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/nocodb/","title":"NocoDB","text":"<p>No-code database platform that turns any database into a smart spreadsheet.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/nocodb/#overview","title":"Overview","text":"<p>NocoDB is an open-source no-code platform that transforms any database into a smart spreadsheet interface. It provides a user-friendly way to manage data, create forms, build APIs, and collaborate on database operations without requiring extensive technical knowledge.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/nocodb/#features","title":"Features","text":"<ul> <li>Smart Spreadsheet Interface: Transform databases into intuitive spreadsheets</li> <li>Form Builder: Create custom forms for data entry</li> <li>API Generation: Auto-generated REST APIs for all tables</li> <li>Collaboration: Real-time collaboration with team members</li> <li>Access Control: Role-based permissions and sharing</li> <li>Data Visualization: Charts and dashboard creation</li> <li>Webhooks: Integration with external services</li> <li>Import/Export: Support for CSV, Excel, and other formats</li> <li>Multi-Database Support: Works with PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQLite, and more</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/nocodb/#access","title":"Access","text":"<ul> <li>Default Port: 8090</li> <li>URL: <code>http://localhost:8090</code></li> <li>Database: PostgreSQL (dedicated <code>root_db</code> instance)</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/nocodb/#configuration","title":"Configuration","text":""},{"location":"cm-lite/services/nocodb/#environment-variables","title":"Environment Variables","text":"<ul> <li><code>NOCODB_PORT</code>: External port mapping (default: 8090)</li> <li><code>NC_DB</code>: Database connection string for PostgreSQL backend</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/nocodb/#database-backend","title":"Database Backend","text":"<p>NocoDB uses a dedicated PostgreSQL instance (<code>root_db</code>) with the following configuration: - Database Name: <code>root_db</code> - Username: <code>postgres</code> - Password: <code>password</code> - Host: <code>root_db</code> (internal container name)</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/nocodb/#volumes","title":"Volumes","text":"<ul> <li><code>nc_data</code>: Application data and configuration storage</li> <li><code>db_data</code>: PostgreSQL database files</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/nocodb/#getting-started","title":"Getting Started","text":"<ol> <li>Access NocoDB: Navigate to <code>http://localhost:8090</code></li> <li>Initial Setup: Complete the onboarding process</li> <li>Create Project: Start with a new project or connect existing databases</li> <li>Add Tables: Import data or create new tables</li> <li>Configure Views: Set up different views (Grid, Form, Gallery, etc.)</li> <li>Set Permissions: Configure user access and sharing settings</li> </ol>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/nocodb/#common-use-cases","title":"Common Use Cases","text":""},{"location":"cm-lite/services/nocodb/#content-management","title":"Content Management","text":"<ul> <li>Create content databases for blogs and websites</li> <li>Manage product catalogs and inventories</li> <li>Track customer information and interactions</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/nocodb/#project-management","title":"Project Management","text":"<ul> <li>Task and project tracking systems</li> <li>Team collaboration workspaces</li> <li>Resource and timeline management</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/nocodb/#data-collection","title":"Data Collection","text":"<ul> <li>Custom forms for surveys and feedback</li> <li>Event registration and management</li> <li>Lead capture and CRM systems</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/nocodb/#integration-with-other-services","title":"Integration with Other Services","text":"<p>NocoDB can integrate well with other Changemaker Lite services:</p> <ul> <li>n8n Integration: Use NocoDB as a data source/destination in automation workflows</li> <li>Listmonk Integration: Manage subscriber lists and campaign data</li> <li>Documentation: Store and manage documentation metadata</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/nocodb/#api-usage","title":"API Usage","text":"<p>NocoDB automatically generates REST APIs for all your tables:</p> <pre><code># Get all records from a table\nGET http://localhost:8090/api/v1/db/data/v1/{project}/table/{table}\n\n# Create a new record\nPOST http://localhost:8090/api/v1/db/data/v1/{project}/table/{table}\n\n# Update a record\nPATCH http://localhost:8090/api/v1/db/data/v1/{project}/table/{table}/{id}\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/nocodb/#backup-and-data-management","title":"Backup and Data Management","text":""},{"location":"cm-lite/services/nocodb/#database-backup","title":"Database Backup","text":"<p>Since NocoDB uses PostgreSQL, you can backup the database:</p> <pre><code># Backup NocoDB database\ndocker exec root_db pg_dump -U postgres root_db &gt; nocodb_backup.sql\n\n# Restore from backup\ndocker exec -i root_db psql -U postgres root_db &lt; nocodb_backup.sql\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/nocodb/#application-data","title":"Application Data","text":"<p>Application settings and metadata are stored in the <code>nc_data</code> volume.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/nocodb/#security-considerations","title":"Security Considerations","text":"<ul> <li>Change default database credentials in production</li> <li>Configure proper access controls within NocoDB</li> <li>Use HTTPS for production deployments</li> <li>Regularly backup both database and application data</li> <li>Monitor access logs and user activities</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/nocodb/#performance-tips","title":"Performance Tips","text":"<ul> <li>Regular database maintenance and optimization</li> <li>Monitor memory usage for large datasets</li> <li>Use appropriate indexing for frequently queried fields</li> <li>Consider database connection pooling for high-traffic scenarios</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/nocodb/#troubleshooting","title":"Troubleshooting","text":""},{"location":"cm-lite/services/nocodb/#common-issues","title":"Common Issues","text":"<p>Service won't start: Check if the PostgreSQL database is healthy <pre><code>docker logs root_db\n</code></pre></p> <p>Database connection errors: Verify database credentials and network connectivity <pre><code>docker exec nocodb nc_data nc\n</code></pre></p> <p>Performance issues: Monitor resource usage and optimize queries <pre><code>docker stats nocodb root_db\n</code></pre></p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/nocodb/#official-documentation","title":"Official Documentation","text":"<p>For comprehensive guides and advanced features: - NocoDB Documentation - GitHub Repository - Community Forum</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/postgresql/","title":"PostgreSQL Database","text":"<p>Reliable database backend for applications.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/postgresql/#overview","title":"Overview","text":"<p>PostgreSQL is a powerful, open-source relational database system. In Changemaker Lite, it serves as the backend database for Listmonk and can be used by other applications requiring persistent data storage.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/postgresql/#features","title":"Features","text":"<ul> <li>ACID compliance</li> <li>Advanced SQL features</li> <li>JSON/JSONB support</li> <li>Full-text search</li> <li>Extensibility</li> <li>High performance</li> <li>Reliability and data integrity</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/postgresql/#access","title":"Access","text":"<ul> <li>Default Port: 5432</li> <li>Host: <code>listmonk-db</code> (internal container name)</li> <li>Database: Set via <code>POSTGRES_DB</code> environment variable</li> <li>Username: Set via <code>POSTGRES_USER</code> environment variable</li> <li>Password: Set via <code>POSTGRES_PASSWORD</code> environment variable</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/postgresql/#configuration","title":"Configuration","text":""},{"location":"cm-lite/services/postgresql/#environment-variables","title":"Environment Variables","text":"<ul> <li><code>POSTGRES_USER</code>: Database username</li> <li><code>POSTGRES_PASSWORD</code>: Database password  </li> <li><code>POSTGRES_DB</code>: Database name</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/postgresql/#health-checks","title":"Health Checks","text":"<p>The PostgreSQL container includes health checks to ensure the database is ready before dependent services start.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/postgresql/#data-persistence","title":"Data Persistence","text":"<p>Database data is stored in a Docker volume (<code>listmonk-data</code>) to ensure persistence across container restarts.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/postgresql/#connecting-to-the-database","title":"Connecting to the Database","text":""},{"location":"cm-lite/services/postgresql/#from-host-machine","title":"From Host Machine","text":"<p>You can connect to PostgreSQL from your host machine using:</p> <pre><code>psql -h localhost -p 5432 -U [username] -d [database]\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/postgresql/#from-other-containers","title":"From Other Containers","text":"<p>Other containers can connect using the internal hostname <code>listmonk-db</code> on port 5432.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/postgresql/#backup-and-restore","title":"Backup and Restore","text":""},{"location":"cm-lite/services/postgresql/#backup","title":"Backup","text":"<pre><code>docker exec listmonk-db pg_dump -U [username] [database] &gt; backup.sql\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/postgresql/#restore","title":"Restore","text":"<pre><code>docker exec -i listmonk-db psql -U [username] [database] &lt; backup.sql\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/postgresql/#monitoring","title":"Monitoring","text":"<p>Monitor database health and performance through: - Container logs: <code>docker logs listmonk-db</code> - Database metrics and queries - Connection monitoring</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/postgresql/#security-considerations","title":"Security Considerations","text":"<ul> <li>Use strong passwords</li> <li>Regularly update PostgreSQL version</li> <li>Monitor access logs</li> <li>Implement regular backups</li> <li>Consider network isolation</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/postgresql/#official-documentation","title":"Official Documentation","text":"<p>For comprehensive PostgreSQL documentation: - PostgreSQL Documentation - Docker PostgreSQL Image</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/static-server/","title":"Static Site Server","text":"<p>Nginx-powered static site server for hosting built documentation and websites.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/static-server/#overview","title":"Overview","text":"<p>The Static Site Server uses Nginx to serve your built documentation and static websites. It's configured to serve the built MkDocs site and other static content with high performance and reliability.</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/static-server/#features","title":"Features","text":"<ul> <li>High-performance static file serving</li> <li>Automatic index file handling</li> <li>Gzip compression</li> <li>Caching headers</li> <li>Security headers</li> <li>Custom error pages</li> <li>URL rewriting support</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/static-server/#access","title":"Access","text":"<ul> <li>Default Port: 4001</li> <li>URL: <code>http://localhost:4001</code></li> <li>Document Root: <code>/config/www</code> (mounted from <code>./mkdocs/site</code>)</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/static-server/#configuration","title":"Configuration","text":""},{"location":"cm-lite/services/static-server/#environment-variables","title":"Environment Variables","text":"<ul> <li><code>PUID</code>: User ID for file permissions (default: 1000)</li> <li><code>PGID</code>: Group ID for file permissions (default: 1000)</li> <li><code>TZ</code>: Timezone setting (default: Etc/UTC)</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/static-server/#volumes","title":"Volumes","text":"<ul> <li><code>./mkdocs/site:/config/www</code>: Static site files</li> <li>Built MkDocs site is automatically served</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/static-server/#usage","title":"Usage","text":"<ol> <li>Build your MkDocs site: <code>docker exec mkdocs-changemaker mkdocs build</code></li> <li>The built site is automatically available at <code>http://localhost:4001</code></li> <li>Any files in <code>./mkdocs/site/</code> will be served statically</li> </ol>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/static-server/#file-structure","title":"File Structure","text":"<pre><code>mkdocs/site/           # Served at /\n\u251c\u2500\u2500 index.html         # Homepage\n\u251c\u2500\u2500 assets/           # CSS, JS, images\n\u251c\u2500\u2500 services/         # Service documentation\n\u2514\u2500\u2500 search/           # Search functionality\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/static-server/#performance-features","title":"Performance Features","text":"<ul> <li>Gzip Compression: Automatic compression for text files</li> <li>Browser Caching: Optimized cache headers</li> <li>Fast Static Serving: Nginx optimized for static content</li> <li>Security Headers: Basic security header configuration</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/static-server/#custom-configuration","title":"Custom Configuration","text":"<p>For advanced Nginx configuration, you can: 1. Create custom Nginx config files 2. Mount them as volumes 3. Restart the container</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/static-server/#monitoring","title":"Monitoring","text":"<p>Monitor the static site server through: - Container logs: <code>docker logs mkdocs-site-server-changemaker</code> - Access logs for traffic analysis - Performance metrics</p>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/static-server/#troubleshooting","title":"Troubleshooting","text":""},{"location":"cm-lite/services/static-server/#common-issues","title":"Common Issues","text":"<ul> <li>404 Errors: Ensure MkDocs site is built and files exist in <code>./mkdocs/site/</code></li> <li>Permission Issues: Check <code>PUID</code> and <code>PGID</code> settings</li> <li>File Not Found: Verify file paths and case sensitivity</li> </ul>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/static-server/#debugging","title":"Debugging","text":"<pre><code># Check container logs\ndocker logs mkdocs-site-server-changemaker\n\n# Verify files are present\ndocker exec mkdocs-site-server-changemaker ls -la /config/www\n\n# Test file serving\ncurl -I http://localhost:4001\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"cm-lite/services/static-server/#official-documentation","title":"Official Documentation","text":"<p>For more information about the underlying Nginx server: - LinuxServer.io Nginx - Nginx Documentation</p>"},{"location":"contributing/","title":"Contributing to the Alberta Democracy Taskforce Website","text":"<p>Welcome! We're excited that you want to help improve our website and contribute to defending democracy in Alberta. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, step by step.</p>"},{"location":"contributing/#what-youll-learn","title":"What You'll Learn","text":"<p>This guide is designed for complete beginners. By the end, you'll know how to:</p> <ol> <li>Get Started - Set up your account and understand the basics</li> <li>Navigate Gitea - Learn our Git hosting platform</li> <li>Make Your First Edit - Edit content directly in your browser</li> <li>Use Git Basics - Understanding version control</li> <li>Clone and Edit Locally - Work on your own computer</li> <li>Submit Changes - Share your improvements with the team</li> <li>Collaborate Effectively - Work with others and handle feedback</li> </ol>"},{"location":"contributing/#our-git-server","title":"Our Git Server","text":"<p>We use Gitea, hosted at git.albertademocracytaskforce.org, to manage our website's source code and collaborate on changes.</p>"},{"location":"contributing/#about-this-website","title":"About This Website","text":"<p>This website is built using Changemaker Lite, an open-source platform that makes it easy for organizations to create collaborative documentation sites. The entire site - including all content, configuration, and this contribution system - can be downloaded and rebuilt on any computer.</p> <p>Want to use this for your own organization? You can clone the complete setup from our repository at git.albertademocracytaskforce.org/admin/ab.dem.tf.changemaker.git. This includes everything needed to create a similar site for your cause, complete with documentation tools, email campaigns, and workflow automation.</p>"},{"location":"contributing/#no-experience-required","title":"No Experience Required","text":"<p>Don't worry if terms like \"Git\", \"repository\", or \"pull request\" are unfamiliar. We'll explain everything as we go, and each page focuses on just a few simple steps you can master before moving on.</p>"},{"location":"contributing/#video-tutorials","title":"Video Tutorials","text":"<p>[Administrator: Add video embeds or links to video tutorials for each section here]</p>"},{"location":"contributing/#getting-help","title":"Getting Help","text":"<p>If you get stuck at any point:</p> <ul> <li>Check the specific page for that step in this guide</li> <li>Ask questions in our community chat</li> <li>Email us at [contact email]</li> </ul> <p>Ready to get started? Let's begin with Getting Started!</p>"},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/","title":"Collaboration Best Practices","text":"<p>Working effectively with others is key to successful project contribution. This guide covers how to collaborate smoothly, handle conflicts, and be a positive community member.</p>"},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/#being-a-good-collaborator","title":"Being a Good Collaborator","text":""},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/#communicate-clearly","title":"Communicate Clearly","text":"<ul> <li>Be specific in your questions and descriptions</li> <li>Use examples when explaining problems or suggestions</li> <li>Be patient - people have different schedules and time zones</li> <li>Ask for help when you're stuck - it's better than struggling alone</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/#respect-others-work","title":"Respect Others' Work","text":"<ul> <li>Read existing content before making changes to understand the current approach</li> <li>Build on others' contributions rather than completely replacing them</li> <li>Give credit when you're building on someone else's ideas</li> <li>Discuss major changes before implementing them</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/#stay-focused-on-the-mission","title":"Stay Focused on the Mission","text":"<p>Remember we're all working toward the same goal: defending democracy in Alberta. Keep discussions:</p> <ul> <li>Constructive rather than critical</li> <li>Focused on the work rather than personal preferences  </li> <li>Aligned with our values of democratic participation and transparency</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/#working-with-issues","title":"Working with Issues","text":""},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/#finding-work-to-do","title":"Finding Work to Do","text":"<ol> <li>Check the Issues tab for tasks marked \"good first issue\" or \"help wanted\"</li> <li>Read through the description to understand what's needed</li> <li>Comment on the issue to let others know you're working on it</li> <li>Ask questions if anything is unclear</li> </ol>"},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/#reporting-problems","title":"Reporting Problems","text":"<p>When you find a bug or have a suggestion:</p> <ol> <li>Check existing issues first to avoid duplicates</li> <li>Use a clear title like \"Mobile menu doesn't work on iPhone\" </li> <li>Provide details:</li> <li>What you expected to happen</li> <li>What actually happened</li> <li>Steps to reproduce the problem</li> <li> <p>What browser/device you're using</p> </li> <li> <p>Add labels if you have permission (bug, enhancement, etc.)</p> </li> </ol>"},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/#handling-disagreements","title":"Handling Disagreements","text":""},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/#when-you-disagree-with-feedback","title":"When You Disagree with Feedback","text":"<p>Sometimes you might disagree with a reviewer's suggestions:</p> <p>Step 1: Understand their perspective - Ask clarifying questions - Consider that they might have context you don't - Look at how similar issues were handled before</p> <p>Step 2: Explain your reasoning - Share why you made the choice you did - Provide evidence or examples if relevant - Be open to finding a compromise solution</p> <p>Step 3: Involve others if needed - If you can't reach agreement, ask other team members for input - Tag project maintainers for guidance - Remember the goal is the best outcome for the project</p>"},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/#when-others-disagree-with-you","title":"When Others Disagree with You","text":"<p>If someone challenges your review or suggestion:</p> <ul> <li>Stay calm and professional</li> <li>Re-examine your position - you might have missed something</li> <li>Focus on the project's needs rather than being \"right\"</li> <li>Be willing to change your mind when presented with good reasoning</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/#managing-merge-conflicts","title":"Managing Merge Conflicts","text":"<p>Sometimes Git can't automatically combine changes - this creates a \"merge conflict.\"</p>"},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/#why-conflicts-happen","title":"Why Conflicts Happen","text":"<ul> <li>Two people edited the same lines in a file</li> <li>Someone deleted a file that another person modified</li> <li>Changes were made to the same section but in different ways</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/#resolving-simple-conflicts","title":"Resolving Simple Conflicts","text":"<ol> <li>Don't panic - conflicts are normal and fixable</li> <li>Look at the conflicted sections - Git marks them clearly</li> <li>Decide which version to keep or how to combine them</li> <li>Remove the conflict markers (<code>&lt;&lt;&lt;&lt;&lt;&lt;&lt;</code>, <code>=======</code>, <code>&gt;&gt;&gt;&gt;&gt;&gt;&gt;</code>)</li> <li>Test that everything still works</li> <li>Commit the resolution</li> </ol>"},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/#when-to-ask-for-help","title":"When to Ask for Help","text":"<ul> <li>If you're not sure which version to keep</li> <li>If the conflict involves code you didn't write</li> <li>If there are many conflicts or they seem complex</li> <li>If you're new to Git and feeling overwhelmed</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/#communication-channels","title":"Communication Channels","text":""},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/#where-to-discuss-what","title":"Where to Discuss What","text":"<p>Pull Request Comments: For discussing specific changes in your submission</p> <p>Issue Comments: For general discussion about problems or improvements</p> <p>Project Chat/Forum: For real-time questions and community discussion</p> <p>Email: For private matters or when you need direct help</p>"},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/#response-time-expectations","title":"Response Time Expectations","text":"<ul> <li>Pull request reviews: Usually within 2-3 business days</li> <li>Issue responses: Within a week for non-urgent matters</li> <li>Chat messages: Best effort during business hours</li> <li>Emergency fixes: Tag maintainers for faster response</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/#building-community","title":"Building Community","text":""},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/#help-other-contributors","title":"Help Other Contributors","text":"<ul> <li>Answer questions when you can help</li> <li>Review others' pull requests if you feel confident</li> <li>Share resources you've found helpful</li> <li>Welcome new contributors and help them get started</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/#stay-engaged","title":"Stay Engaged","text":"<ul> <li>Follow project updates to stay informed about changes</li> <li>Participate in discussions about the project's direction</li> <li>Attend community meetings if they're held</li> <li>Share the project with others who might want to contribute</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/#red-flags-to-avoid","title":"Red Flags to Avoid","text":"<p>These behaviors can harm the collaborative environment:</p> <ul> <li>Personal attacks or hostile language</li> <li>Dismissing others' contributions without constructive feedback</li> <li>Making unilateral decisions about major changes</li> <li>Ignoring established processes without discussion</li> <li>Taking credit for others' work</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/#video-tutorial","title":"Video Tutorial","text":"<p>[Administrator: Add a video tutorial showing examples of good collaboration, how to handle feedback constructively, and conflict resolution strategies]</p>"},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/#quick-dos-and-donts","title":"Quick Do's and Don'ts","text":""},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/#do","title":"Do:","text":"<ul> <li>\u2705 Ask questions when unsure</li> <li>\u2705 Give specific, helpful feedback  </li> <li>\u2705 Test your changes before submitting</li> <li>\u2705 Respond to feedback promptly</li> <li>\u2705 Help others when you can</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/#dont","title":"Don't:","text":"<ul> <li>\u274c Make personal attacks or hostile comments</li> <li>\u274c Ignore project conventions without discussion</li> <li>\u274c Submit untested changes</li> <li>\u274c Take feedback personally</li> <li>\u274c Work in isolation on major changes</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/collaboration/#remember","title":"Remember","text":"<p>Good collaboration makes everyone more effective and creates a positive environment where people want to contribute. By following these practices, you're not just improving the website - you're helping build a stronger community committed to defending democracy in Alberta.</p>"},{"location":"contributing/first-edit/","title":"Make Your First Edit","text":"<p>Ready to make your first contribution? This guide will walk you through editing a file directly in your web browser - no special software needed!</p>"},{"location":"contributing/first-edit/#what-youll-do","title":"What You'll Do","text":"<p>We'll make a simple change to practice the process. Don't worry about breaking anything - there are safeguards in place.</p>"},{"location":"contributing/first-edit/#step-1-choose-a-file-to-edit","title":"Step 1: Choose a File to Edit","text":"<p>For your first edit, let's improve a page that already exists:</p> <ol> <li>Go to the project homepage on Gitea</li> <li>Navigate to <code>mkdocs</code> \u2192 <code>docs</code></li> <li>Find a page you'd like to improve (maybe <code>faq.md</code> or create a small edit to any <code>.md</code> file)</li> </ol>"},{"location":"contributing/first-edit/#step-2-open-the-editor","title":"Step 2: Open the Editor","text":"<ol> <li>Click on the file you want to edit</li> <li>Look for the pencil icon (\u270f\ufe0f) and click it</li> <li>You're now in the web editor!</li> </ol>"},{"location":"contributing/first-edit/#step-3-understand-markdown","title":"Step 3: Understand Markdown","text":"<p>The files use \"Markdown\" - a simple way to format text. Here are the basics:</p> <pre><code># This is a big heading\n## This is a smaller heading\n**This text is bold**\n*This text is italic*\n- This is a bullet point\n[This is a link](https://example.com)\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"contributing/first-edit/#step-4-make-your-edit","title":"Step 4: Make Your Edit","text":"<p>Let's practice with a small change:</p> <ol> <li>Find a paragraph you want to improve</li> <li>Make a simple edit like:</li> <li>Fix a typo</li> <li>Add a sentence</li> <li>Improve wording</li> <li>Don't make huge changes for your first edit - keep it simple!</li> </ol>"},{"location":"contributing/first-edit/#step-5-preview-your-changes","title":"Step 5: Preview Your Changes","text":"<ol> <li>Click the \"Preview\" tab to see how your changes will look</li> <li>Switch back to \"Edit\" if you want to make more changes</li> <li>Review your work carefully</li> </ol>"},{"location":"contributing/first-edit/#step-6-save-your-changes","title":"Step 6: Save Your Changes","text":"<p>At the bottom of the page, you'll see a \"Commit Changes\" section:</p> <ol> <li>Commit message: Write a brief description of what you changed</li> <li>Good: \"Fixed typo in FAQ section\"</li> <li>Good: \"Added information about voting rights\"</li> <li> <p>Not helpful: \"Updated file\"</p> </li> <li> <p>Choose commit type:</p> </li> <li>Select \"Create a new branch for this commit and start a pull request\"</li> <li> <p>This lets others review your changes before they go live</p> </li> <li> <p>Click \"Propose Changes\"</p> </li> </ol>"},{"location":"contributing/first-edit/#step-7-create-your-pull-request","title":"Step 7: Create Your Pull Request","text":"<p>After clicking \"Propose Changes\":</p> <ol> <li>You'll see a \"Pull Request\" form</li> <li>Add a title that describes your change</li> <li>In the description, explain why you made the change</li> <li>Click \"Create Pull Request\"</li> </ol> <p>Congratulations! You've submitted your first contribution!</p>"},{"location":"contributing/first-edit/#what-happens-next","title":"What Happens Next?","text":"<ul> <li>A team member will review your changes</li> <li>They might suggest improvements or ask questions</li> <li>Once approved, your changes will appear on the live website</li> <li>You'll get notified by email about any updates</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/first-edit/#whats-next","title":"What's Next?","text":"<p>Now that you've made your first edit, learn more about Git Basics to understand what just happened behind the scenes.</p>"},{"location":"contributing/first-edit/#video-tutorial","title":"Video Tutorial","text":"<p>[Administrator: Add a video tutorial showing the complete process of making an edit through the web interface]</p>"},{"location":"contributing/first-edit/#troubleshooting","title":"Troubleshooting","text":"<p>Can't find the pencil icon? Make sure you're viewing a file (not a folder) and that you're logged in.</p> <p>Preview looks wrong? Check your Markdown syntax - missing spaces or symbols can cause formatting issues.</p> <p>Nervous about breaking something? Don't worry! Your changes won't go live until they're reviewed and approved.</p>"},{"location":"contributing/getting-started/","title":"Getting Started with Contributing","text":"<p>Welcome to your first step in contributing to our website! This page will help you get set up with an account and understand what we're working with.</p>"},{"location":"contributing/getting-started/#what-is-git-and-gitea","title":"What is Git and Gitea?","text":"<p>Git is a tool that helps people work together on projects by tracking changes to files. Think of it like \"track changes\" in Microsoft Word, but much more powerful.</p> <p>Gitea is a website that hosts Git projects, making it easy to share and collaborate. It's like Google Drive, but specifically designed for code and documentation projects.</p>"},{"location":"contributing/getting-started/#step-1-create-your-account","title":"Step 1: Create Your Account","text":"<ol> <li>Go to git.albertademocracytaskforce.org</li> <li>Click the \"Sign Up\" button (usually in the top right corner)</li> <li>Fill out the registration form with:</li> <li>Username (choose something professional, you'll use this for contributions)</li> <li>Email address</li> <li>Password</li> <li>Click \"Create Account\"</li> <li>Check your email for a confirmation message and click the link</li> </ol>"},{"location":"contributing/getting-started/#step-2-find-our-project","title":"Step 2: Find Our Project","text":"<ol> <li>Once logged in, use the search bar to find \"Alberta Democracy Taskforce\" or the specific repository name</li> <li>Click on the project to open it</li> <li>Bookmark this page - you'll be coming back often!</li> </ol>"},{"location":"contributing/getting-started/#step-3-understand-the-project-structure","title":"Step 3: Understand the Project Structure","text":"<p>Our website's files are organized like this: - <code>mkdocs/docs/</code> - This is where all the website content lives - <code>*.md</code> files - These are \"Markdown\" files that contain the text you see on the website - Images and other files are in their own folders</p>"},{"location":"contributing/getting-started/#whats-next","title":"What's Next?","text":"<p>Now that you have an account, let's learn how to navigate around Gitea in the next section: Navigating Gitea.</p>"},{"location":"contributing/getting-started/#video-tutorial","title":"Video Tutorial","text":"<p>[Administrator: Add a video tutorial showing the account creation and project navigation process]</p>"},{"location":"contributing/getting-started/#troubleshooting","title":"Troubleshooting","text":"<p>Can't find the sign-up button? Look for \"Register\" or \"Join\" instead.</p> <p>Didn't receive a confirmation email? Check your spam folder, or contact us for help.</p> <p>Can't find our project? Make sure you're logged in, and try searching for \"democracy\" or \"taskforce\".</p>"},{"location":"contributing/git-basics/","title":"Git Basics","text":"<p>Now that you've made your first edit, let's understand what Git actually does and why it's so helpful for collaborative work.</p>"},{"location":"contributing/git-basics/#what-is-git","title":"What is Git?","text":"<p>Think of Git as a sophisticated \"undo\" system that:</p> <ul> <li>Tracks every change to every file</li> <li>Remembers who made each change and when</li> <li>Allows multiple people to work on the same project without conflicts</li> <li>Keeps a complete history so nothing is ever truly lost</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/git-basics/#key-concepts-simplified","title":"Key Concepts (Simplified)","text":""},{"location":"contributing/git-basics/#repository-repo","title":"Repository (\"Repo\")","text":"<p>A repository is like a project folder that Git watches. Our website is one repository.</p>"},{"location":"contributing/git-basics/#commit","title":"Commit","text":"<p>A commit is like saving a snapshot of your work. Each commit includes:</p> <ul> <li>What files were changed</li> <li>Who made the changes</li> <li>When the changes were made</li> <li>A message describing the changes</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/git-basics/#branch","title":"Branch","text":"<p>A branch is like a parallel version of the project where you can make changes safely. Think of it as making a copy, editing the copy, then merging the good changes back to the original.</p>"},{"location":"contributing/git-basics/#pull-request","title":"Pull Request","text":"<p>A pull request is like saying \"Hey, I made some improvements - would you like to include them?\" It's a way to propose changes and discuss them before they become part of the main project.</p>"},{"location":"contributing/git-basics/#the-git-workflow-what-you-just-did","title":"The Git Workflow (What You Just Did)","text":"<p>When you made your first edit, here's what happened:</p> <ol> <li>You created a branch - A safe copy to work on</li> <li>You made changes - Edited the file</li> <li>You committed - Saved a snapshot with a description</li> <li>You created a pull request - Asked for your changes to be reviewed</li> <li>Someone will review - A team member checks your work</li> <li>Changes get merged - If approved, your changes join the main project</li> </ol>"},{"location":"contributing/git-basics/#why-this-system-works","title":"Why This System Works","text":""},{"location":"contributing/git-basics/#safety","title":"Safety","text":"<ul> <li>Multiple people can work simultaneously without breaking each other's work</li> <li>Every change is tracked, so mistakes can be undone</li> <li>Changes are reviewed before going live</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/git-basics/#transparency","title":"Transparency","text":"<ul> <li>Anyone can see what changed and why</li> <li>The history shows how the project evolved</li> <li>Credit is given to each contributor</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/git-basics/#collaboration","title":"Collaboration","text":"<ul> <li>Team members can suggest improvements to your changes</li> <li>Discussions happen around specific edits</li> <li>Knowledge is shared through the review process</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/git-basics/#common-git-terms","title":"Common Git Terms","text":"Term Simple Explanation Clone Make a copy of the entire project on your computer Fork Make your own copy of someone else's project Push Send your changes from your computer to the server Pull Get the latest changes from the server to your computer Merge Combine changes from one branch into another Conflict When two people changed the same thing - needs manual fixing"},{"location":"contributing/git-basics/#whats-next","title":"What's Next?","text":"<p>Now that you understand the basics, you can either: - Continue making edits through the web interface (easiest) - Learn to Clone and Edit Locally for more advanced work</p>"},{"location":"contributing/git-basics/#video-tutorial","title":"Video Tutorial","text":"<p>[Administrator: Add a video tutorial explaining Git concepts with visual examples and analogies]</p>"},{"location":"contributing/git-basics/#remember","title":"Remember","text":"<ul> <li>Git protects you - Your changes are safe and reviewable</li> <li>Mistakes are fixable - Nothing is ever permanently lost</li> <li>Learning takes time - Don't worry about understanding everything at once</li> <li>Practice helps - The more you use it, the more natural it becomes</li> </ul> <p>The most important thing to remember: Git is designed to help people work together safely. All the complexity exists to prevent problems and make collaboration possible.</p>"},{"location":"contributing/local-editing/","title":"Clone and Edit Locally","text":"<p>Ready to work on your own computer? This guide will show you how to download the entire project and make changes using proper development tools.</p>"},{"location":"contributing/local-editing/#why-work-locally","title":"Why Work Locally?","text":"<p>Working on your own computer gives you:</p> <ul> <li>Faster editing with better text editors</li> <li>Offline work capability</li> <li>Better tools for handling images and complex changes</li> <li>More control over your development environment</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/local-editing/#what-youll-need","title":"What You'll Need","text":"<p>Before starting, install these free tools:</p>"},{"location":"contributing/local-editing/#step-1-install-git","title":"Step 1: Install Git","text":"<ol> <li>Go to git-scm.com</li> <li>Download Git for your operating system</li> <li>Install with default settings</li> <li>Open a terminal/command prompt and type <code>git --version</code> to verify</li> </ol>"},{"location":"contributing/local-editing/#step-2-install-a-text-editor","title":"Step 2: Install a Text Editor","text":"<p>Choose one of these beginner-friendly options:</p> <ul> <li>VS Code (recommended) - code.visualstudio.com</li> <li>Atom - atom.io</li> <li>Sublime Text - sublimetext.com</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/local-editing/#step-3-set-up-git","title":"Step 3: Set Up Git","text":"<p>Open a terminal/command prompt and run these commands (replace with your info):</p> <pre><code>git config --global user.name \"Your Name\"\ngit config --global user.email \"your.email@example.com\"\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"contributing/local-editing/#clone-the-repository","title":"Clone the Repository","text":""},{"location":"contributing/local-editing/#step-1-get-the-clone-url","title":"Step 1: Get the Clone URL","text":"<ol> <li>Go to our project on git.albertademocracytaskforce.org</li> <li>Click the \"Clone\" button</li> <li>Copy the HTTPS URL (it looks like: <code>https://git.albertademocracytaskforce.org/username/projectname.git</code>)</li> </ol>"},{"location":"contributing/local-editing/#step-2-choose-a-location","title":"Step 2: Choose a Location","text":"<p>Decide where on your computer you want the project folder:</p> <ul> <li>Windows: <code>C:\\Users\\YourName\\Documents\\Projects\\</code></li> <li>Mac/Linux: <code>/Users/YourName/Documents/Projects/</code> or <code>/home/YourName/Projects/</code></li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/local-editing/#step-3-clone-the-project","title":"Step 3: Clone the Project","text":"<p>Open a terminal/command prompt, navigate to your chosen location, and run:</p> <pre><code>git clone https://git.albertademocracytaskforce.org/[USERNAME]/[PROJECTNAME].git\n</code></pre> <p>This creates a folder with all the project files.</p>"},{"location":"contributing/local-editing/#make-changes-locally","title":"Make Changes Locally","text":""},{"location":"contributing/local-editing/#step-1-open-the-project","title":"Step 1: Open the Project","text":"<ol> <li>Open your text editor (VS Code, etc.)</li> <li>Open the project folder you just cloned</li> <li>Navigate to <code>mkdocs/docs/</code> to see the website files</li> </ol>"},{"location":"contributing/local-editing/#step-2-create-a-new-branch","title":"Step 2: Create a New Branch","text":"<p>Before making changes, create a new branch:</p> <pre><code>git checkout -b my-improvement-branch\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"contributing/local-editing/#step-3-make-your-edits","title":"Step 3: Make Your Edits","text":"<ol> <li>Edit any <code>.md</code> files in your text editor</li> <li>Save your changes</li> <li>Preview if possible (your editor might have Markdown preview)</li> </ol>"},{"location":"contributing/local-editing/#step-4-check-your-changes","title":"Step 4: Check Your Changes","text":"<p>See what files you've modified:</p> <pre><code>git status\n</code></pre> <p>See exactly what changed:</p> <pre><code>git diff\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"contributing/local-editing/#commit-your-changes","title":"Commit Your Changes","text":""},{"location":"contributing/local-editing/#step-1-add-files","title":"Step 1: Add Files","text":"<p>Tell Git which files to include in your commit:</p> <pre><code>git add .\n</code></pre> <p>(The <code>.</code> means \"add all changed files\")</p>"},{"location":"contributing/local-editing/#step-2-commit","title":"Step 2: Commit","text":"<p>Save your changes with a descriptive message:</p> <pre><code>git commit -m \"Improve FAQ section with clearer examples\"\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"contributing/local-editing/#push-and-create-pull-request","title":"Push and Create Pull Request","text":""},{"location":"contributing/local-editing/#step-1-push-your-branch","title":"Step 1: Push Your Branch","text":"<p>Send your changes to the server:</p> <pre><code>git push origin my-improvement-branch\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"contributing/local-editing/#step-2-create-pull-request","title":"Step 2: Create Pull Request","text":"<ol> <li>Go to our project on Gitea</li> <li>You'll see a notice about your new branch with a button to create a pull request</li> <li>Click it and fill out the form</li> <li>Submit your pull request</li> </ol>"},{"location":"contributing/local-editing/#keep-your-local-copy-updated","title":"Keep Your Local Copy Updated","text":"<p>Before starting new work, always get the latest changes:</p> <pre><code>git checkout main\ngit pull origin main\n</code></pre> <p>Then create a new branch for your next improvement.</p>"},{"location":"contributing/local-editing/#whats-next","title":"What's Next?","text":"<p>Now you know how to work locally! Learn about Submitting Changes to master the review process.</p>"},{"location":"contributing/local-editing/#video-tutorial","title":"Video Tutorial","text":"<p>[Administrator: Add a video tutorial showing the complete local development workflow from clone to pull request]</p>"},{"location":"contributing/local-editing/#quick-command-reference","title":"Quick Command Reference","text":"<pre><code># Clone a repository\ngit clone [URL]\n\n# Create and switch to new branch\ngit checkout -b [branch-name]\n\n# Check status\ngit status\n\n# Add all changes\ngit add .\n\n# Commit changes\ngit commit -m \"Your message\"\n\n# Push branch\ngit push origin [branch-name]\n\n# Get latest changes\ngit pull origin main\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"contributing/local-editing/#troubleshooting","title":"Troubleshooting","text":"<p>\"Git not recognized\"? Make sure Git is installed and restart your terminal.</p> <p>Permission denied? You might need to set up SSH keys or use HTTPS authentication.</p> <p>Merge conflicts? Don't panic! This happens when multiple people edit the same lines. Ask for help or check our collaboration guide.</p>"},{"location":"contributing/navigating-gitea/","title":"Navigating Gitea","text":"<p>Now that you have an account, let's learn how to find your way around our Git hosting platform. This page will show you the key areas you'll use most often.</p>"},{"location":"contributing/navigating-gitea/#the-project-homepage","title":"The Project Homepage","text":"<p>When you open our project on Gitea, you'll see several important areas:</p>"},{"location":"contributing/navigating-gitea/#step-1-understand-the-main-sections","title":"Step 1: Understand the Main Sections","text":"<ol> <li>Files Tab - Shows all the files in our project (this is where you'll spend most of your time)</li> <li>Issues Tab - Where we track problems, suggestions, and planned improvements</li> <li>Pull Requests Tab - Where people submit changes for review</li> <li>Wiki Tab - Additional documentation (if we use it)</li> </ol>"},{"location":"contributing/navigating-gitea/#step-2-explore-the-files","title":"Step 2: Explore the Files","text":"<ol> <li>Click on the \"Files\" tab if you're not already there</li> <li>You'll see a list of folders and files</li> <li>Click on <code>mkdocs</code> then <code>docs</code> to see the website content</li> <li>Click on any <code>.md</code> file to see its contents</li> </ol>"},{"location":"contributing/navigating-gitea/#step-3-learn-the-file-view","title":"Step 3: Learn the File View","text":"<p>When viewing a file, you'll see:</p> <ul> <li>Raw content - The actual text with special formatting codes</li> <li>Edit button (pencil icon) - Click this to make changes</li> <li>History button - See who changed what and when</li> <li>Download button - Save a copy to your computer</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/navigating-gitea/#key-areas-to-know","title":"Key Areas to Know","text":""},{"location":"contributing/navigating-gitea/#the-repository-root","title":"The Repository Root","text":"<p>This is the main folder containing everything. Key items:</p> <ul> <li><code>mkdocs/docs/</code> - Website content goes here</li> <li><code>README.md</code> - Project description and instructions</li> <li><code>docker-compose.yml</code> - Technical setup file (don't worry about this)</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/navigating-gitea/#the-docs-folder","title":"The Docs Folder","text":"<p>This is where you'll make most changes:</p> <ul> <li><code>index.md</code> - The homepage content</li> <li>Individual <code>.md</code> files - Other pages on the website</li> <li><code>blog/</code> folder - Blog posts and news</li> <li><code>assets/</code> folder - Images and files</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/navigating-gitea/#practice-navigation","title":"Practice Navigation","text":"<p>Try these steps to get comfortable:</p> <ol> <li>Start at the project homepage</li> <li>Click into <code>mkdocs</code> \u2192 <code>docs</code></li> <li>Open <code>index.md</code> to see the homepage content</li> <li>Click the \"back\" button to return to the docs folder</li> <li>Try opening another <code>.md</code> file</li> </ol>"},{"location":"contributing/navigating-gitea/#whats-next","title":"What's Next?","text":"<p>Now that you can find your way around, let's make your first edit: Make Your First Edit.</p>"},{"location":"contributing/navigating-gitea/#video-tutorial","title":"Video Tutorial","text":"<p>[Administrator: Add a video tutorial showing how to navigate through Gitea's interface and find files]</p>"},{"location":"contributing/navigating-gitea/#quick-reference","title":"Quick Reference","text":"<ul> <li>Project home: All tabs and main project info</li> <li>Files: Browse and edit website content  </li> <li>Issues: Report problems or suggest improvements</li> <li>Pull requests: Submit changes for review</li> <li>Edit button: Pencil icon next to any file</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/submitting-changes/","title":"Submitting Changes","text":"<p>Whether you're editing through the web interface or working locally, this guide covers best practices for submitting your changes and navigating the review process.</p>"},{"location":"contributing/submitting-changes/#before-you-submit","title":"Before You Submit","text":""},{"location":"contributing/submitting-changes/#step-1-review-your-own-work","title":"Step 1: Review Your Own Work","text":"<ul> <li>Read through your changes as if seeing them for the first time</li> <li>Check for typos and grammar mistakes</li> <li>Verify links work and images display properly</li> <li>Make sure formatting looks correct in preview mode</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/submitting-changes/#step-2-write-a-good-commit-message","title":"Step 2: Write a Good Commit Message","text":"<p>Your commit message should clearly explain what you changed and why:</p> <p>Good examples:</p> <ul> <li>\"Fix broken link to voting rights resource\"</li> <li>\"Add FAQ section about Bill 54 implications\"</li> <li>\"Update contact information for Calgary office\"</li> </ul> <p>Poor examples:</p> <ul> <li>\"Updated file\"</li> <li>\"Changes\"</li> <li>\"Fix\"</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/submitting-changes/#step-3-check-the-size-of-your-changes","title":"Step 3: Check the Size of Your Changes","text":"<ul> <li>Small focused changes are easier to review and more likely to be accepted quickly</li> <li>Large changes should be broken into smaller, logical pieces when possible</li> <li>If you must make large changes, explain why in your pull request description</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/submitting-changes/#creating-a-great-pull-request","title":"Creating a Great Pull Request","text":""},{"location":"contributing/submitting-changes/#step-1-choose-a-clear-title","title":"Step 1: Choose a Clear Title","text":"<p>Your pull request title should summarize the main improvement:</p> <ul> <li>\"Improve accessibility of navigation menu\"</li> <li>\"Add resources for municipal election information\"</li> <li>\"Fix mobile layout issues on FAQ page\"</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/submitting-changes/#step-2-write-a-helpful-description","title":"Step 2: Write a Helpful Description","text":"<p>Explain what you changed and why:</p> <pre><code>## What this changes\n\n- Fixes the broken link to the Alberta Elections website\n- Updates the FAQ to include information about the new voting procedures\n- Adds alt text to images for screen readers\n\n## Why this change is needed\nThe old link was returning a 404 error, and users were getting confused about the new voting procedures introduced in Bill 54.\n\n## How to test\n\n1. Click on the \"Alberta Elections\" link in the resources section\n2. Verify it opens the correct page\n3. Check that the FAQ section answers common questions about voting procedures\n</code></pre>"},{"location":"contributing/submitting-changes/#step-3-reference-related-issues","title":"Step 3: Reference Related Issues","text":"<p>If your pull request fixes a reported issue: - Include \"Fixes #123\" in the description (where 123 is the issue number) - This automatically links your pull request to the issue</p>"},{"location":"contributing/submitting-changes/#the-review-process","title":"The Review Process","text":""},{"location":"contributing/submitting-changes/#what-happens-next","title":"What Happens Next","text":"<ol> <li>Automated checks run to make sure your changes don't break anything</li> <li>A team member reviews your changes within a few days</li> <li>Discussion happens if they have questions or suggestions</li> <li>Changes are approved and merged, or you're asked to make improvements</li> </ol>"},{"location":"contributing/submitting-changes/#responding-to-feedback","title":"Responding to Feedback","text":"<p>When reviewers leave comments:</p> <p>Be open to suggestions:</p> <ul> <li>Reviewers want to help improve the project</li> <li>They might know things about the project you don't</li> <li>Constructive feedback makes everyone better</li> </ul> <p>Ask questions if unclear:</p> <ul> <li>\"Could you give me an example of how you'd like this worded?\"</li> <li>\"I'm not sure I understand - could you clarify what you mean?\"</li> </ul> <p>Make requested changes promptly:</p> <ul> <li>Address feedback quickly to keep momentum</li> <li>Make additional commits to the same branch</li> <li>Your pull request will update automatically</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/submitting-changes/#types-of-feedback-you-might-receive","title":"Types of Feedback You Might Receive","text":"<p>Content suggestions:</p> <ul> <li>\"Could you add a link to the source document here?\"</li> <li>\"This might be clearer if we break it into bullet points\"</li> </ul> <p>Technical improvements:</p> <ul> <li>\"Please add alt text to this image for accessibility\"</li> <li>\"This link should open in a new tab\"</li> </ul> <p>Style consistency:</p> <ul> <li>\"We use 'Alberta' instead of 'AB' throughout the site\"</li> <li>\"Can you match the heading format used on other pages?\"</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/submitting-changes/#after-your-changes-are-merged","title":"After Your Changes Are Merged","text":""},{"location":"contributing/submitting-changes/#celebrate","title":"Celebrate!","text":"<p>You've successfully contributed to defending democracy in Alberta! Your changes are now live and helping others.</p>"},{"location":"contributing/submitting-changes/#whats-next","title":"What's Next?","text":"<ul> <li>Look for more ways to help - check the Issues tab for other needed improvements</li> <li>Share your knowledge - help other new contributors</li> <li>Stay engaged - watch for updates and continue contributing</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/submitting-changes/#common-submission-mistakes","title":"Common Submission Mistakes","text":"<p>Avoid these pitfalls:</p> <ul> <li>Submitting changes without testing them first</li> <li>Making unrelated changes in the same pull request</li> <li>Not explaining why the change is needed</li> <li>Taking feedback personally instead of constructively</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/submitting-changes/#quick-checklist","title":"Quick Checklist","text":"<p>Before submitting any change:</p> <ul> <li>[ ] I've reviewed my own work for errors</li> <li>[ ] My commit message clearly describes the change</li> <li>[ ] My pull request has a clear title and description</li> <li>[ ] I've tested that my changes work as expected</li> <li>[ ] I've kept the change focused on one improvement</li> </ul>"},{"location":"contributing/submitting-changes/#video-tutorial","title":"Video Tutorial","text":"<p>[Administrator: Add a video tutorial showing the pull request process, including how to respond to feedback and make revisions]</p>"},{"location":"contributing/submitting-changes/#getting-help","title":"Getting Help","text":"<p>If you're unsure about any part of the submission process:</p> <ul> <li>Ask questions in your pull request</li> <li>Contact the project maintainers</li> <li>Join our contributor chat for real-time help</li> </ul> <p>Remember: everyone was a beginner once, and the community is here to help you succeed!</p>"},{"location":"blog/archive/2025/","title":"May 2025","text":""},{"location":"blog/category/analysis/","title":"Analysis","text":""},{"location":"blog/category/bill-54/","title":"Bill 54","text":""},{"location":"blog/category/democracy/","title":"Democracy","text":""},{"location":"blog/category/indigenous-rights/","title":"Indigenous Rights","text":""},{"location":"blog/category/municipal-democracy/","title":"Municipal Democracy","text":""},{"location":"blog/category/bill-20/","title":"Bill 20","text":""}]}