Standing Together to Preserve a Living Memorial
The Alberta Conservative Caucus has written to the University of Alberta to express our shared support for the preservation of the Casavant memorial organ in Convocation Hall.
For nearly a century, the organ—installed as a commemoration of University of Alberta students, faculty, and alumni who gave their lives in the First and Second World Wars—has served as a living tribute to service and sacrifice. From its original dedication following the First World War to its rededication after the Second, it has been an integral part of the University’s ceremonial life and its ongoing act of remembrance.
While we fully recognize and support the importance of accessibility, inclusion, and renewal of university facilities, we believe these goals should be pursued alongside careful stewardship of historical and memorial assets. Decisions affecting tributes to veterans rightly deserve thoughtful, transparent, and complete planning.
In our letter, sent on behalf of the Alberta Conservative Caucus, we urge the University of Alberta to ensure that the memorial role of the organ is preserved and honoured, and that any changes to Convocation Hall do not result in the loss of an irreplaceable symbol of service, remembrance, and institutional history.
We are grateful to those who have raised their voices on this issue—including veterans’ organizations, alumni, faculty, and community members—and we look forward to continued dialogue grounded in respect for both progress and remembrance.
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