UCGSA/UCSU American Research Letter

As many of you know, relations between Canada and the United States have rapidly deteriorated. This has resulted in threats of tariffs, talks of annexation, and a general feeling of anxiety and uncertainty. Unfortunately, Alberta—and Calgary in particular—is on of the more vulnerable areas in Canada to any protracted trade war: oil and gas exports to the United States are the lifeblood of Alberta’s dominant industry, and nearly a quarter of the Government of Alberta’s revenue comes from bitumen royalties.

During a luncheon at the Calgary Chamber of Commerce earlier this month, the Minister of Advanced Education, Rajan Sawhney, announced that she is created an American-focused research unit within her ministry. The University of Calgary Graduate Students’ Association (UCGSA) and University of Calgary Students’ Union (UCSU)—recognizing that post-secondary funding is likely at risk of further cuts thanks to an inevitable budget crunch, and also hoping to show Albertans that students are essential problem solvers—sent the following letter to her. Our hope is that she will call graduate and undergraduate students with knowledge and expertise in this research unit’s area to help the government understand, and better navigate, a world where the United States is no longer a stead-fast ally.

To read the full letter – click here

We will keep our membership informed on any updates regarding this request. If you have any questions, please contact us at the following emails:

• For undergraduate students: nathan.ross@ucalgary.ca
• For graduate students: advocacy.gsa@ucalgary.ca