Navigating CBA Alberta’s involvement with political issues is guided by the following principles:
1. CBA members are encouraged to participate on their own in political and governmental affairs. This may include:
- Voting.
- Joining or serving in political parties.
- Providing financial support.
- Communicating with party officials and candidates.
- Participating in peaceful, legal protests.
- Serving in elected or appointed offices in local and national government.
2. CBA Members are encouraged to participate in worthy causes to make their legal communities better.
3. CBA members are encouraged to register to vote and to study issues and candidates carefully. CBA members have a special obligation to seek out and uphold policies that strengthen the rule of law and protect the interests of CBA members.
4. CBA members who seek elected or appointed public office should not imply without authorization that they are endorsed by the CBA or its leadership. CBA members should also avoid statements or conduct that might be interpreted as CBA endorsement of any political party, platform, policy, or candidate.
5. CBA members can belong to a variety of political parties and vote for a variety of candidates. Principles compatible with CBA values, priorities and interests may be found in various political parties. All should feel welcome in CBA settings.
6. As Canada’s largest association of legal professionals, CBA champions issues that matter to its members. CBA brings lawyers’ perspectives to the public debate, promotes their interests, and protects the legal profession’s core values.
7. The CBA is neutral regarding political parties, political platforms, and candidates for political office. The CBA does not endorse any political party or candidate. Nor does it advise members how to vote.
Approved January 21, 2026
8. In exceptional cases, when CBA interests are involved, the CBA may take a position on political matters. In such cases, the CBA may engage in non-partisan political discourse to represent its views. Only the CBA President and Board can authorize:
- Committing the CBA to support or oppose specific legislation.
- Sharing the CBA perspective on judicial matters.
- Expressing the CBA’s position on moral or social issues.
9. Even when taking a position on a political matter, the CBA does not require elected officials to vote a certain way or to take a certain position. CBA members who are elected officials make their own decisions. These officials might not agree with one another or with a publicly stated CBA position. They do not speak for the CBA.
10. Political choices and affiliations should not be the main subject of seminars or advocating in CBA settings. CBA section leaders ensure that CBA meetings and activities focus on the needs of the CBA section members.
11. Local CBA section leaders should not require CBA members to participate in political matters. Nor should section leaders attempt to influence how members participate politically.
12. CBA records, directories, and similar materials may not be used for political purposes. CBA facilities may not be used for political purposes.