Voting is for more than just American Idol

By: Fiona

What is the power of the vote? We use it all the time: to settle disputes, finalise plans, elect our leaders, and so on. But when it comes to actual Canadian politics, how much do we really know or, more importantly, care?

The general consensus on both questions is, not much, and this is unacceptable. It is imperative that as youth we at least grasp the basic concept, and what’s more, the importance of our individual votes. Whether volunteering for a political party or cause that really speaks to your views, or actually getting out there and voting, it is our duty as the future of tomorrow to take an active interest in our country’s role on the world stage.

Here’s an example to put it in perspective: many people in the U.S. did not think their vote was important, and so they didn’t do it. Eight years later millions of people have died in what many people consider pointless wars, and the world is in an economic meltdown. All of which could possibly have been prevented had more than 51.3% of the US voting population exercised their right to vote in 2000, when Bush was elected.

By adding your voice to the call to action for global justice, by caring who runs your country, and therefore governs its interactions with the rest of the world, you help to turn the gentle hum change into an unstoppable roar. Be sure to research all the party platforms before lending one your voice, and check out our interview with Ilona Dougherty of Apathy is Boring for a great discussion on the need for youth to lend their voice to Canadian politics.