What a year we’ve had! The continuation of a global pandemic, a full return to in-person university classes, and now, for many of us, our first federal election in which we are able to vote. We live in a democratic society and can now participate in the selection of a leader who reflects our values.
The first thing we must figure out is where we stand on important issues. Each party has a bit of a different spin on issues vital to who we are and the country we live in. This election, there are six different parties to choose from. The parties include the Green Party, the Conservative Party, the New Democratic Party, the Liberal Party, the Bloc Quebecois, and the People’s Party of Canada.
Some major issues that our country faces include the Covid-19 pandemic, truth and reconciliation, economic decisions, environmental concerns, and mental health, just to name a few. Each party has different plans to handle these issues. For instance, the Green Party’s platform details immediate and notable action against climate change while other party platforms address the issue in a different time frame. When we are looking through the options, the social issues of our time should also be taken into consideration.
Currently, according to CTV News, there are two parties distinctly in the lead; the Conservative Party and the Liberal Party. As of September 16th, at 8:00 am, according to Nanos Research, the Liberals sit at 31.9% support while the Conservatives sit at 30.3%. The NDP sits at 21.1%, the PPC at 6.7%, BQ at 6.4% and the Green Party at 3.2%.
No matter who you vote for, please get out there on election day, Monday, September 20th, 2021! I would encourage everyone to do some research on the party options by looking up each party’s website. This is a good way to ensure that you are getting information straight from the source, eliminating the individual bias you may find on other sites. Also, vote for the party that best aligns with what you want to see in Canada. Every vote counts!
An email was sent through the school system detailing how to vote as a student this election. There will be an on-campus student designated polling station at the Acadia Student Union Building from 8:30 am to 8:30 pm on the 20th. You will need to check your Acadia email for a message from Chad Johnstone and show the attached confirmation of residence form upon arrival at the polling station. Along with this form you will need a piece of ID. If you live off campus, check where you can vote and what you need to do so at the Elections Canada website!
Even when the election is over, I encourage us to engage in democracy every day. Voting is an important part but there is so much more to it. We have the power to fuel change in our everyday lives through different forms of activism. Acadia has a variety of groups and clubs that represent our diverse community and presents the opportunity for us to create new ones. So, let’s engage in meaningful deliberations, create organizations that represent who we are, and participate in activism for the rights of those who may not have a voice!
