Why Should You Vote in the Upcoming Federal Election? 🍁

As a student, you might be wondering about the significance of participating in the upcoming federal election! Engaging in the electoral process is a fundamental aspect of democracy and allows you to influence the direction of Canada!  Here’s why your vote matters and how you can prepare to cast your ballot.  

Find everything you need to know about how to vote here: Have Your Say: How to Vote in the Federal Election – Waterloo Undergraduate Student Association. 

Why Vote in the Federal Election? 🗳️ 

The federal government plays a crucial role in shaping policies that impact various facets of Canadian life, including:  

• 🎓Education Funding: Allocating resources for post-secondary institutions and student financial assistance programs.  
• 🤑Economic Policies: Implementing measures that affect employment opportunities, taxation, and economic growth.  
• 🌎International Relations: Managing Canada’s foreign policy and trade agreements, which can influence domestic markets and job prospects.  

By voting, you have a say in selecting representatives who align with your views on these and other critical issues.  

Major Political Parties and Their Platforms 

Familiarizing yourself with the major political parties and their platforms can help you make an informed decision: 

• Liberal Party of Canada 
  • Leader: Mark Carney
  • Website: Liberal Party of Canada 
• Conservative Party of Canada:  
  • Leader: Pierre Poilievre 
  • Website: Conservative Party of Canada 
• New Democratic Party (NDP) 
  • Leader: Jagmeet Singh 
  • Website: Canada’s NDP 
• Green Party of Canada:  
  • Leader: Elizabeth May 
  • Website: Green Party Of Canada 

How to Prepare for Voting 

1. Research the Issues: Understand the key issues at stake in this election and how they affect you and your community.  
2. Evaluate Party Platforms: Review the policies and promises of each party to determine which aligns with your values and priorities.  
   • You can use CBC’s Vote Compass to see each party’s view on the issues most important to you.
3. Plan Your Vote: Decide whether you’ll vote in person on election day, during advance voting days, or by mail. Ensure you know the location of your polling station and its operating hours.  

Your participation in the federal election is vital to the democratic process and the future direction of Canada. By casting your vote, you contribute to shaping policies that will impact you and your fellow citizens. Stay informed, get involved, and make your voice heard on (or before) April 28, 2025.  

Alexandra Minard 

Communications Assistant