The Power of Your Vote: Reflections from a Parliamentary Intern by Justin Langan

We cannot disregard the heavy significance of this upcoming federal election. Voting itself exceeds its classification as civic duty, it allows you to form the future you desire. The experience of working as a Parliamentary Intern has revealed to me how official decisions from elected representatives produce direct and observable results in our communities. The outcome of our nation depends entirely on every vote during election day; every voter affects the country’s path, regardless of which province or territory.

The culmination of my work thus far has taught me that democracy requires more than voting, it demands our voices to reach decision-making centers. As a non-partisan intern, I’ve observed Members of Parliament (MPs) engage in policy debates about anything you can think of, be it from Cod Moritariums to Israel/Palestine, because these decisions will reshape the lives of Canadians; and it is Canadians that have the unique power to directly affect the nature of these decisions. Through voting we exercise our voice to directly affect those policies which matter to us.

Most MPs will go to great lengths to represent their people and constituency. The political process makes it difficult to connect with voters who feel distant from it, especially when dealing with diverse voting groups. The voting process remains the most crucial element I want to stress to everyone. Taking part in elections requires more than selecting a political party because it means actively shaping the systems which control our everyday existence. When we abstain from voting, we surrender control of our future to others, a risk we should not be willing to take.

During this election season, think about which policies you care about most. These can be environmental sustainability, healthcare, affordability, reconciliation, foreign affairs, and, mind-numbingly, even our independent sovereignty. Your vote is the means to bring those critical issues to national attention. The act of voting boosts your individual power, the power of your community, and the power of coming generations. Be wary of the allure of pessimism; your vote does have a real influence on shaping our future.

Before the election, I want you to consider which policies you support, which candidates best represent your values, and how your vote enables you to create change. When you participate in an election, federal or otherwise, you decide which direction your country will take. Your vote should not be dismissed because of its singularity; collectively, it holds substantial power.

Let’s make our voices heard. Let’s vote for the future we want.