Recently I had an interesting question posed to me, “ The next election isn’t for another 4 years, why do I need to get involved now? ”. And it’s true the 4-5 year election cycle in Canada only intensifies the problem of youth voter disengagement. Young people can be swept into the election cycle but then once the vote is done the energy seems to die. And what’s more if they were not drawn in by the excitement of the election it makes reaching them 4 years later all the more difficult.
I will not deny that the writ period of any election is exciting, its fun, its completely engaging but there is something to be said for the period in between. Its that time now, more than the writ period that is perfect opportunity to find out where you fit on the political spectrum, to figure out what issues you are passionate about and find others who share the same passions.
Take the opportunity to visit the legislature in your province, watch question period and the news, visit your MLA and discuss issues important to you. After you research political parties join one and even get involved in that parties association in your constituency. If you are uncomfortable with the partisan aspect approach the Elections organization in your province and put your name forward to be an enumerator. Enumeration is the collection of data on all voters so that lists can be updated. In the same grain if you want to stay connected but in a non partisan way join a ROCK THE VOTE CANADA street team….send us your blogs, help with our events…..
So in answer to the question that I started with…. you need to get involved now because if you wait till later you won’t. You will find another reason or excuse to post- pone your participation. I am not saying you have to make it your entire life but if you can just find a few hours a week or a month to cultivate your political knowledge and build relationships around whatever interests you have the process will open up to you in a way it has never before.
http://www.rockthevotecanada.ca/
Get Interested. Get Involved. Get Invested in voting!
