Tim Grace
     We’re in it now. It is a season of bliss for some and of agony for others. Yes, it’s election time in Canada. We’re being inundated with signs, advertisements, radio ads, and all things political in order to try and make us decide which party is made to lead this country. 

     On October 14^th, Canadians will vote, the winner will be announced, and the next day we’ll continue to complaining about the government, as if it is second nature or a basic human right. But there’s a problem that seems to be making its way throughout our generation in recent years. We just don’t care. The fate of our nation is being decided by an increasingly smaller percentage of the population (approx 64% of eligible voters went to the polls in the 2006 election) while the remaining percentage sit idly by and just wait for the campaign signs to disappear so the street can look pretty again. The argument is that one vote doesn’t matter. Before you come to that conclusion, consider the following. Are you willing to sit back while a government that does not care for student issues is elected? Are you willing to let in a leader that does not see the need to get involved in the areas of the world that can truly use our help?Are you willing to allow other demographics to represent your voice? I’m not saying that one party is better than the other – do your research and decide that for yourselfI heard a statement recently that went along the lines of “If you don’t vote, then don’t complain.” I like it. It tells me that if I do not take the initiative to try and effect change in our government, then my voice is taken out of the picture and the government has no reason to listen to me. Some may say that one vote will not make a difference. It is only one vote, but it is your voice in this nation, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned so far in life it’s that when given the opportunity to speak, take it, because there may not be another chance. For more information on the election, visit www.elections.ca 

Three ways to vote:

In person on October 14^th

At advanced polls – Oct 3^rd, 4^th, 6^th.

By Special Ballot – Very useful for students who will not be able to make it home for advanced polls or Election Day.