Canada’s Western provinces remain divided over what it means to be “Western Canadian,” but a new poll finds residents overwhelmingly agree they’re getting a raw deal from Ottawa.The Angus Reid Institute released new data this week showing deep disunity among British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba on regional identity, but a shared sense of political and economic alienation. The release comes as Prime Minister Mark Carney and provincial premiers wrapped a first ministers’ meeting in Saskatoon, described as the “best” in years by Ontario Premier Doug Ford and “encouraging” by Alberta Premier Danielle Smith.Despite positive diplomatic signals, tensions continue to simmer in Alberta and Saskatchewan, where support for separation remains higher than in B.C. or Manitoba. While discontent exists across all four provinces, the intensity of frustration with the federation varies, with B.C. and Manitoba more hesitant to embrace separatist sentiment or identify closely with the prairies.The data show fewer British Columbians feel connected to Alberta and Saskatchewan, while residents of Manitoba and Saskatchewan are twice as likely as Albertans to identify as “Western Canadian” before simply “Canadian.” Even the definition of “the West” remains unsettled across the region.Still, some common ground exists. At least 60% of respondents in each of the four western provinces say the region is treated unfairly, and more than 66% believe the West is politically disadvantaged. Three-quarters or more also say Ontario and Quebec do not understand Western priorities.While a plurality in each western province still identifies as “Canadian first,” a substantial number feel more closely tied to their province or region. Across the country, 55% of Canadians say the West is a unique region. However, 48% in Ontario and Atlantic Canada, and 62% in Quebec, disagree.Economic concerns are also a major factor. More than 59% in each of the four western provinces believe the West has too little economic influence in confederation, while majorities in Ontario, Quebec, and Atlantic Canada say the region has the right amount.The polling highlights growing regional rifts at a time when national unity is once again a top political concern.
