On October 27, we are all heading to the polls to place our votes in the municipal elections. Politics is such a jaded word these days it seems and I think sometimes we forget how important it is to exercise our right to vote. Yes, we are inundated with messaging from candidates, but if we break politics down to a local level, a community level, the importance of our vote seems even more relevant, doesn’t it?
When I was a kid I took a keen interest in politics. I was less interested in the partisanship, and more so the process as a civic duty. I was interested in electoral procedure, the legal aspects of the process, and more. When I was in the seventh grade, during an election year, we had a whole unit about elections which included mock debates. I was a leader in the debates and watched the real ones on television in preparation for my pretend one in the school gym. I worked so hard and confidently, stated my case.
I was only 14 and could not vote, but the rush of the process was addicting. My interest continued into civic courses in high school, especially historic pieces and past elections, but also current affairs. Do you remember the Quebec Separation Vote in 1995? We spent so much time learning about that, following it, and as teenagers, we knew the gravity of the situation. We cared. We looked to the adults that were able to vote and urged their participation, on our behalf.
When I turned 18, the first time I could vote, a friend and I left the high school during our spare class to drive to the polling station. I’m surprised I don’t have a picture of myself that day, given how excited I was. I still remember it being a dark, grey, rainy day but we skipped into that polling station with fresh enthusiasm. We were voting! We were contributing!
What happened? My zest for the vote waned as I went into my twenties. I was still involved in my community, I was learning about our country’s history at university, and yet, it was as though my civic zeal faded. I still voted, but with much less enthusiasm and a lot more jaded sense of duty.
It’s been in recent years that I have spent much more time interested in the process again. My husband and I would stay up late, watching the poll results and analysis on the local news channel. I understand the importance of teaching my own children why they should vote; the kids have even come to the polling stations in years past.
As I face another slew of elections, including the Municipal ones on October 27, I feel a sense of renewal to the process. I look at my children and see their future. The local issues suddenly take on a new appeal. I recognize the importance of my vote, no matter how small it may appear.
The system can be daunting, I understand that. However, there are places to get some assistance. For starters, the CAA website offers information for voters about municipal elections and making informed decisions.
Do you know what issues you feel are important to you? On October 27, remember to head out and vote to have your say!
Disclosure: This post is part of the CASSCO Blogging Program and while I was compensated for this post, opinions are my own. Seriously, go vote.
