A café owner in Cold Lake, Alberta, has closed his business following backlash from hosting events advocating for Alberta’s separation from Canada. John Ewanek, who ran Beantrees, expressed that the financial strain exacerbated by inflation was worsened by the divisive nature of the events he organised earlier this year. The fallout has raised questions about the implications of separatist sentiments in the province.
Business Impact of Political Advocacy
Ewanek’s café, a local fixture since its establishment in 1999, faced declining patronage after he hosted signature-gathering events for the separatist initiative, Stay Free Alberta. This group is campaigning for a referendum that would allow citizens to vote on Alberta’s potential secession from Canada. The petition was remarkably successful, garnering over 223,000 signatures—far surpassing the required 178,000.
“I probably lost about 15 per cent of my revenue and never recovered from that,” Ewanek lamented. The owner noted that the events alienated a significant portion of his clientele, many of whom disagreed with his political stance. Furthermore, several musicians who were set to perform at Beantrees withdrew their participation, and the café became a target for criticism, including a vulgar sign placed outside in response to the separatist gatherings.
The Growing Separatist Movement
Despite the challenges faced, Ewanek remains steadfast in his beliefs. He plans to support a second referendum on Alberta’s future within Canada, stating, “I believe separation is the way.” His involvement in the so-called freedom movement began during the COVID-19 pandemic, primarily due to his opposition to federal health measures.
Ewanek argues that Alberta’s separation is necessary due to what he perceives as Ottawa’s failure to manage the country’s food system effectively. He voiced concerns over the over-processing of food and a lack of domestic agricultural production, stating, “I just can’t even touch commercial chicken anymore. It disgusts me.”
The Political Landscape
As the debate heats up, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has acknowledged the separatist petition as a catalyst for a referendum question scheduled for October 19. This question will ask Albertans whether they wish to remain in Canada or pursue a binding referendum on separation. However, polls indicate that a majority of Albertans prefer to stay within Confederation, highlighting a growing divide within communities.
The separatist sentiment has not only influenced local businesses but has also sparked controversies in public events, such as the cancellation of a rodeo parade in Sundre due to threats against organisers who rejected a pro-separation float.
Controversial Public Sentiment
The separatist movement has elicited mixed reactions, with figures like Prime Minister Mark Carney condemning the push as a “dangerous bluff.” He likened the situation to Brexit, asserting that separatists promise unrealistic outcomes while overlooking the potential challenges that would arise from such a decision.
In the face of such divided opinions, Ewanek maintains his belief in the necessity of discussing Alberta’s place within Canada. “Even if we don’t separate, we ought to talk about this stuff, you know? People don’t want to talk about it,” he remarked, illustrating the deep-seated emotions surrounding this political issue.
Why it Matters
The closure of Ewanek’s café encapsulates the broader tensions at play in Alberta as separatist rhetoric gains traction. It reflects not only the personal toll on business owners but also the potential for increased societal division. As discussions surrounding Alberta’s future intensify, the impact on local economies and community cohesion will likely be profound, with implications that could resonate far beyond the province’s borders.
