Be Heard: The Importance of Voting and Seeking Change

Written by Oscar Arkeveld

Democracy is in session! The Canadian federal election is just around the corner, coming up on April 28, 2025. By now some people will have cast their ballots and the process of determining who will come to lead the country is underway. With this upcoming election, it serves as a reminder of the importance of voting and ensuring citizens make their voices heard. Despite the large impact of politics on people’s everyday lives, many people choose not to get involved. At the last Canadian federal election there was a voter turnout of 62.6%, leaving nearly 40% of eligible voters out of the decision. This gap is even bigger for young people, with only 47% of eligible voters aged 18-24 voting in the 2021 federal election. 

These are very concerning statistics, especially for young people. Democracy is founded on the idea of the rule of the people. If the majority of people abstain from being represented in this system, is this idea really being upheld? For young voters, this lack of representation can be traced back to less of an interest in politics as well as a view that the government does not cater to their needs. In many ways it makes sense why young people feel this way; with a growing number of issues affecting young people, from unaffordability to climate change to mental health, it can seem as though nothing is being done by politicians to combat these issues. Though this may appear to be true, this highlights even more so the importance of getting involved in politics. 

If politicians and political parties do not represent the interests of the people they serve, the people should make it known that they want change. This is where the power of democracy comes to be seen. When the majority make their voices heard, the people lead politics in a new direction. From this, the most important topics and issues affecting citizens can be dealt with. 

With this in mind, one of the easiest and most influential ways to make your voice heard is through voting. Even if you do not feel fully represented, consider your values and how the platforms of different parties support and align with them. Big change takes time, and each time you vote you are contributing to this change. To show up and cast your ballot for parties you align with, or even partially align with, sends a message of the direction you want the government to take. 

To read more about voting in the 2025 Canadian federal election you can visit here.