CARSTAIRS — Rural Albertans packed the Carstairs Half Century Club this weekend for a standing-room-only event to stand up for Canada and show their support for Bev Toews, Alberta New Democrat candidate for Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills.

The event focused on the rising threat of separatism under Danielle Smith’s UCP government, and called for renewed unity, economic stability, and a shared path forward for Alberta in Canada.

Toews was joined by four-time Olympic speed skating medalist Denny Morrison and Leader of Alberta's New Democrats, Naheed Nenshi.

“This province is where I built my life, and like so many Albertans, I want to be part of something bigger,” said Toews. “We are stronger when we work together—and that means standing up to division and fighting for real solutions for families, farmers, and future generations.”

Morrison, who shared personal stories about his time representing Canada on the world stage, added, “True strength comes from showing up for one another. We’re at our best when we work together, not when we’re pulled apart.”

In his remarks, Nenshi warned that separatist rhetoric is already driving economic uncertainty and undermining investor confidence.

“Danielle Smith’s separatist talk is reckless and dangerous,” said Nenshi. “It creates chaos, it isolates Alberta, and it puts our future at risk. Albertans deserve a Premier who will build—who will unite, not divide.”

The Carstairs event marked a high-energy moment in the final stretch of the campaign ahead of the June 23 by-election in Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills. Toews continues to meet with voters across the riding, highlighting her commitment to rural education, health care, affordability, and economic opportunity.