Mission Statement

We help people understand the difference between who they are and who they think they are.

Our Strategic Overview

Over the past few years, our research team engaged thousands of Albertans, revealing a stark contrast between their diverse identities and the province's perceived "wild west" image rooted in notions of populism and individualism. Despite this stereotype, Albertans' actual political preferences lean centrist and progressive, particularly on social issues like healthcare and inclusion. Demographically, Alberta has urbanized and diversified significantly, challenging traditional perceptions. Our initiative studies these shifts in real-time, aiming to inform policies that better reflect Alberta's modern identity and address extremist sentiments tied to outdated stereotypes.

Strategic Goals

Objective 1: Understand Political Culture

Explore how political culture shapes public opinion and policy. Focus on Alberta while building a scholarly community. Strategies include publishing research, training scholars, and expanding nationwide.

Objective 2: Foster Inclusive Alberta

Expand "Albertan identity" to bridge political divides. Strategies involve sharing research, engaging Alberta youth, and facilitating public discussions.

Objective 3: Safeguard Pluralism

Study ethnic identity activation to support multiculturalism in political institutions. Strategies include publishing research and engaging with governments.

Objective 4: Support Black Researchers

Empower Black social science students in Alberta and Canada through mentorship and research initiatives. Strategies include sustainable mentorship programs and promoting understanding of Black entrepreneurship.