Calgary Voices Rise: Notwithstanding Clause Sparks Local Concerns
Calgary, a city celebrated for its inclusive culture and welcoming community, is grappling with the Alberta government's intent to utilize the notwithstanding clause on several contentious legislative fronts. These moves have ignited widespread debate and raised significant concerns among local Calgarians, particularly within the vibrant LGBTQ+ community and among parents, students, and educators.
The provincial government plans to invoke the notwithstanding clause on legislation requiring parental consent for students under 16 to change names or pronouns in school, banning transgender athletes aged 12 and older from competing in female amateur sports, and limiting gender-affirming care for youth under 16. These policies, some of which came into effect as of September 1, 2025, or are facing ongoing legal challenges, are viewed by many as a direct threat to fundamental human rights and inclusivity.
Calgary Pride has vehemently condemned these intentions, highlighting the potential for direct harm to Two Spirit, Transgender, and Non-Binary people and stating it undermines the values of equality and justice. Queer advocacy groups have urged Calgary's Mayor and City Council to declare Calgary a "sanctuary city" as of September 15, 2025, to limit compliance with the provincial policies, though the Municipal Affairs Minister has stated this concept carries "zero legal force of law in Alberta."
Adding to the tension, the Alberta government indicated its preparedness to use the notwithstanding clause for potential back-to-work legislation in the context of an ongoing teachers' strike, which began October 6, 2025. This provincial-wide job action has seen teachers in public, separate, and francophone schools on strike, affecting 750,000 students and leading to calls for government intervention. The Premier has expressed concerns about "irreparable harm" to students, especially those preparing for post-secondary education.
As Calgarians continue to voice their concerns through rallies and public statements, the ongoing dialogue underscores the city's commitment to protecting the values enshrined within the Canadian Charter. The situation reflects a profound clash between provincial legislative power and deeply held local values of diversity and human rights.