The Royal Canadian Legion Refuses Group Pushing for Sovereignty Referendum to Hold Meetings in Legion Halls

The Royal Canadian Legion has made a decision to not allow Unified Grassroots, a group advocating for a sovereignty referendum in Saskatchewan, to hold meetings in Legion halls. Unified Grassroots is urging people to sign a petition calling for a referendum on a sovereign Saskatchewan, with the goal of empowering the provincial government to negotiate new terms for Saskatchewan’s relationship with Canada or as an independent nation.

Chad Wagner, the provincial executive director of the Legion’s Saskatchewan Command, stated in an email to CBC News that Unified Grassroots’ promotion of Saskatchewan separation does not align with the Legion’s founding principles of promoting Canadian unity. Nadine Ness, the president and founder of Unified Grassroots, emphasized that their focus is on increasing sovereignty for Saskatchewan while remaining part of Canada.

Unified Grassroots had planned to host town hall meetings in Legion halls across Saskatchewan, but these events have been cancelled by the Legion. Ness discovered the cancellations from the local Legion halls she had booked, with some indicating the directive came from Saskatchewan Command or Dominion Command. Despite requesting an explanation, Ness has not received a response.

Wagner clarified that Legion branches have autonomy but must adhere to the organization’s core principles. He explained that Unified Grassroots’ objectives are not in line with the Legion’s mission, leading to the cancellation of their events. The Legion is firm in its stance against hosting events that advocate for separation.

Although the word “separation” is not explicitly mentioned in the town hall advertisements, Ness acknowledged that it is a potential outcome of their efforts. She emphasized that Unified Grassroots is open to various possibilities but is committed to avoiding separation if possible. In response to the Legion’s decision, Ness mentioned that her group has received invitations from different venues across the province to continue hosting town hall meetings.

As the situation unfolds, Unified Grassroots remains dedicated to educating people about democratic processes and advocating for increased sovereignty for Saskatchewan within Canada.

Stay tuned for more updates on Unified Grassroots’ initiatives and their efforts to engage with communities across Saskatchewan.