Today We Say Enough Is Enough
Sherwood Park Student Walkouts Support Alberta Teachers
Nearly 200 students from Salisbury Composite High School marched to Sherwood Park Mall, united in support of their teachers. A portable speaker played the song "Let's Start a Riot" by Three Days Grace, energizing the crowd as they demonstrated solidarity.
This event was part of a larger movement, with over 50 student bodies across Alberta participating in coordinated walkouts on Thursday, October 3. These protests were organized by the newly formed Alberta Student’s Association, a province-wide group led by high school students aiming to amplify youth voices on key issues.
Currently, the main concern is the provincial government's use of the notwithstanding clause to end a three-week teachers' strike.
Student Voices in Action
In the Sherwood Park Mall parking lot, facing busy Sherwood Drive, Grade 12 student James Yorke-Ashman stood on a truck tailgate to deliver a heartfelt 10-minute speech. He emphasized the students’ firm support for their teachers and highlighted the values behind the walkout.
“The walkout is about showing respect, togetherness, and empathy for those who have dedicated their lives to making sure students can fulfill theirs.”
“The actions of Bill 2 have fundamentally stripped our teachers from being able to protest their dissatisfaction with the system.”
James' speech underscored that this demonstration was a collective stand for fairness and recognition of teachers’ rights.
Author's Summary
Alberta high school students united in walkouts to express respect and support for teachers facing government-imposed limits on their right to strike and protest.