An NDP-affiliated union organization appears to have taken a political swing at Alberta Premier Danielle Smith for a recent "controversial" picture she was captured in.."We're not saying Danielle Smith is hateful. But hateful people think she is," The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Alberta stated on Twitter..CUPE represents more than 40,000 members in Alberta..In the picture, Smith stands with a man who is wearing a shirt that says "Thank a straight person today for your existence.".The green shirt then pictures a symbol of a man and woman holding hands and said "Straight Pride.".READ MORE: Smith's office says she didn't read supporters shirt doesn't agree with its message.On Monday the image made its rounds on social media with mixed opinions as "Straight Pride" and now "Gay Pride" both trend on Twitter.."The premier didn't read his shirt and obviously doesn't agree with its message," press secretary Sam Blackett from the Premier's Office told the Western Standard on Monday.."She has always been clear that she supports the LGBTQ+ community and will continue our work to make sure they feel safe in our province.".During the election in Alberta the UCP claimed CUPE had an extensive advertising campaign opposing the UCP and supporting Notley and the Alberta NDP..The UCP said there are further examples of ties between the organizations..Numerous officials appear to hold decision-making roles in both CUPE (Alberta) and the NDP:.Rory Gill appears to be an NDP Labour VP while also a member of the AFL provincial executive..Lou Arab appears to be an NDP 2nd VP while also acting as a senior communications staff member for CUPE (Alberta)..Elizabeth Tweedale is the NDP Calgary Lougheed CA President and a CUPE, Local 37 committee chair.
