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Posted by Donna
It surprised me when I moved to Ontario how casually Black Ontarians take their responsibility to vote. Growing up in Quebec, everyone understood how critical your vote was: it meant the difference between being part of or being separated from Canada. It meant having or losing the right to an education in English. Is part of the issue not fully understanding the issues that are key to our country and you? Do you know what the Conservative, Liberal, and NDP positions are on immigration or education?
Without some of the policies that are currently in place our parents would never have been able to come Canada and give us the lives that we enjoy today. People around the world die to have the same privilege that we sometimes take for granted. It’s crucial that we know the issues that impact us as the Black community. Understand the parties’ position so that you can make an informed choice. Our choices today will impact the next generation! Can you imagine how different our existence could have been if generations of Black Canadians and Americans didn’t fight for our right to participate in the process that dictates the shape of our country?
My personal opinion is that maybe we have become too comfortable…Nice houses and cars, good jobs, yearly vacations, fancy dinners at high-end restaurants… All that and much more could change for our children if we aren’t diligent today. So, if you didn’t vote in the Federal election, all is not lost—there is a Provincial election happening this year too. Make some time, educate yourself on the issues, and vote!
*For more information on the Federal Election and party platforms, visit: http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/canadavotes2011/
2 comments
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May 2, 2011 at 6:48 pm
Qadira
YES I DID. Voting is so important. It wasn’t until I went to university that I discovered that the government was there to “serve” the people. It wasn’t until then that I realized that my voice is important and that the politicians have a duty to listen to me and my concerns. Get involved. Schedule an appointment to see your MP. Tell them whats on your mind. After all they are paid to listen to you the people and deliver your message!! VOTE!!!
May 2, 2011 at 6:52 pm
Shellene
Amen and amen! A lot of times, we are too complacent. We have the privilege of choosing our government and having them work for us. We should never forget that! I will be voting this evening!