“To young Canadians… I believe in you. Your energy, your vision, your passion for justice are exactly what this country needs today. You need to be at the heart of our economy, our political life, and our plans for the present and the future.” – Jack Layton
Election day is just around the corner. On October 19th, millions of Canadians will head to the polls to cast their ballot. Many Canadians are hoping for change, but if you’re under the age of eighteen, the ability to make a change can feel hindered considering the voting age is eighteen. As youth, it’s not uncommon to feel overlooked, unimportant or even a shadow in the grand scheme of things, which is a very unhealthy way to think because as cliche as it sounds; we are the future.
Though we cannot vote, it does not mean our voices aren’t important. I’m tired of feeling like a sitting duck. Over a late night conversation with a friend (aren’t they just the best?), I was able to truly get my feelings out. I’m a firm supporter of the Black Lives Matter movement and I’m pro equality, but sitting at home does not advance the fight for justice (as I’ve expressed here) and sitting around waiting for a chance to be heard just isn’t an option for me. I like to keep busy so doing nothing sounds as appealing as watching paint dry.
If you’re like me and you want to get involved with politics, here are some options:
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Volunteer for a Campaign
This task might include going door to door, making phone calls and putting up signs in your community. Though it might not sound too enticing, volunteering allows you to be exposed to new opportunities and lets you make new friends. I’m pretty busy, but have been able to volunteer with a party on occasion through my friend and the experience is well worth it. Additionally, volunteer work is great to have on your resume when you start job hunting.
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Organize a Student Vote at School
While it might not count, a student vote is kinda like practice for the real deal once you’re of age. It’s also pretty fun to count out the ballots and see where your class stands in the decision. Talk to your Social Studies teacher and see if you guys can have a mini vote. If you’re unsure of who you’d vote for, you can take this quiz run by the CBC and find out which party is most compatible with you. Since being launched on August 30th, more than 1 million people have taken the quiz.
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Talk to Local Candidates
Even if you can’t vote, talking to your local candidates and asking them about their policies on issues important to you still counts as making a difference. By being involved in the conversation, you have an opportunity to influence your local candidates and show them what they’re doing good at and what they should consider fixing. Words work more effectively than silence, so don’t be afraid to speak out. You can do this by sending them a letter, an email or even by attending a rally hosted by your chosen political party. There are many options when it comes to contacting political parties. A good way to start is by looking at their website
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Work for Elections Canada
If you’re sixteen or older, you may be eligible to work at the polls on election day. If you follow these requirements, then you may apply to work at the polls. There are a variety of positions you can apply for but let it be noted that priority is given to individuals aged eighteen or up so don’t be disheartened if you don’t make it. Try, try again.
