The Vicar of Voting

I’m ecstatic that I voted in Canada’s federal election on Sept. 20.

The Backstory
In 2019, the Supreme Court ruled that non-resident Canadians should have the right to vote in a federal election regardless of how many years they’ve lived abroad. I’ve already written about being added to the Canadian government’s international register of electors which resulted from that judicial ruling. The courts and the government did their part. 

I received my voting package via courier in late August, a few weeks before the election writ was dropped. I fulfilled my end of the covenant by quickly mailing the special ballot vote back to Elections Canada. I sent it by registered mail to meet the submission deadline. According to a CBC report, there are about 36,000 Canadians currently living abroad who are on the international register of electors. We have a voice again.

I believe voting rights and citizenship are the cornerstones of democracy and are essential to maintaining an open and free society. That’s why I am making such a fuss about voting. Did you know that in Australia it’s compulsory by law for all eligible citizens to vote in federal elections and  referendums? There’s a fine if you don’t vote or don’t have a valid reason not to. They’re serious about the responsibility of voting in Oz. More than 20 countries in the world  have similar laws. I am happy Canada is taking a step forward by extending the franchise to more citizens.

Also, it’s easy to stay informed about what’s happening in the Great White North. I read Macleans magazine online (thanks, Dad!) . I habitually graze the Globe and Mail and National Post. But voting is an umbilical that keeps me connected.

And my thoughts on this election? I read lots of stories questioning the need for this election. The CAD$600 million price tag to hold it. And the result being a Parliament with a minority government that looks like the previous one. Well, the people voted, had their say. So please drop those minor gripes. Canada is a mature, functioning  democracy. Many nations in this often unfair and chaotic world would love to have our rich nation “problems” of unwavering party positions and stultifying sameness. Choose the half-full glass, folks. We’re the lucky ones.