Edmonton City Councillor Michael Janz is seeking to rename a portion of 99 Avenue to "Forever Canadian Avenue". Janz announced on Sunday that he would be submitting the application to the Edmonton Naming Committee. The proposed renaming aims to recognize the "Forever Canadian" petition, which garnered over 400,000 signatures from Albertans wanting the province to remain in Canada.
The specific section of 99 Avenue being considered is between 107 Street and 109 Street, adjacent to the Alberta legislature in downtown Edmonton. Janz highlighted the location's significance as a popular tourist destination, where visitors can learn about the petition and the widespread support for Canadian unity. He hopes the street can be officially renamed in time for Canada Day celebrations in July.
Janz stated his pride in being Canadian, Albertan, and Edmontonian, emphasizing that these identities shouldn't be mutually exclusive. He believes the "Forever Canadian" petition represents the largest non-partisan citizen movement in Alberta's history. The petition was launched in response to rising separatist sentiments in the province.
The announcement comes shortly after a court ruling dismissed a separatist group's petition for a referendum, citing violations of historic treaties with First Nations. Premier Danielle Smith has voiced support for a sovereign Alberta within Canada, but also acknowledged Albertans' frustrations with the federal government. Janz hopes the street renaming will serve as a reminder of Albertans' desire to remain a part of Canada and counteract the uncertainty caused by separatist movements. Former Deputy Premier Thomas Lukaszuk, who spearheaded the "Forever Canadian" petition, expressed his gratitude to Janz for honouring the movement.
