Alberta’s Catholic bishops are urging parishioners to consider the potential impacts of the province’s forthcoming referendum proposals on vulnerable individuals. In a collective public address, the five bishops emphasize the importance of reflecting on how the ballot initiatives could affect children, those living in poverty, the sick, and the isolated.
The bishops underscore in their letter, dated October 1, that a person’s value should not be determined by their citizenship status, income level, abilities, or contributions to society. Premier Danielle Smith’s government is set to pose a series of questions to Albertans on October 19, seeking endorsement to impose restrictions and fees on certain newcomers.
The referendum queries whether Alberta should enhance its oversight of immigration and impose stricter regulations on newcomers accessing essential services like healthcare and education. Additionally, it inquires about the feasibility of introducing minimum residency requirements and levies on healthcare and education for specific newcomers.
While advocating for a welcoming immigration policy, the premier encourages a “yes” vote on these proposals, asserting that unmanaged immigration strains public services. The Catholic bishops acknowledge the legitimacy of these concerns but stress the necessity of addressing them in ways that uphold human dignity and avoid scapegoating any segment of the population.
Moreover, they emphasize that decisions regarding healthcare, education, and public resources should aim at ensuring fair access and responsible management, with consideration for future generations. Echoing similar sentiments, the province’s Anglican bishops have issued a public statement aligning with the concerns expressed by their Catholic counterparts.
The Anglican bishops reiterate in their September 29 letter that it is our duty to uphold and safeguard the lives, dignity, and worth of all individuals irrespective of their identity or perceived status. While acknowledging their usual avoidance of political matters, the Anglican bishops assert that the referendum questions ultimately entail choosing the kind of society we aspire to build.
Both groups of bishops refrain from dictating how individuals should vote but appeal to the principles of the common good. Responding to inquiries, Sam Blackett, the premier’s press secretary, underscores that the government looks forward to receiving guidance from voters on October 19, emphasizing the need for sustainable immigration levels to alleviate pressures on critical public services.
Blackett notes that the referendum questions were formulated based on feedback gathered during public town hall meetings last summer. The immigration issues are part of a set of nine questions introduced by Premier Smith on February 19. The tenth question, added later, has garnered significant attention, centering on whether Alberta should remain part of Canada or pursue a binding vote on secession.
Overall, the bishops stress the importance of engaging in public discourse with Christian wisdom and prudent judgment on moral issues that impact society. They highlight the significance of promoting a society that upholds human dignity and values equitable access to essential services for all individuals.
