We’re about to embark upon our 7th Canadian Federal election in four years. While it can be hard to feel enthusiastic about another $300 million dollar election, on the other hand this is an opportunity for all Canadians to have their say in the political arena. If you’re a mum who is an active user of social media, you’ll want to know about a new initiative called Mom the Vote. On Facebook and Twitter, Moms / Mums in Canada are encouraged to inform themselves and share information about election choices that support families in Canada. Blogs and tweets that include the Mom the Vote / #momthevote phrase/hashtag will help to share key information about family related political topics with other Canadians. The Mom the Vote online movement has already been featured on the CBC in an effort to encourage politicians to take more notice of the informed opinions and concerns of this particular demographic.
On a similar note, the traditional focus on non-voting youth continues in this election. Interestingly, it is the non-university attending 18 – 24 year olds who are most likely to not vote. Yet it is this age group that is suffering the most during these recessionary times. Their rate of unemployment is almost twice as high as the national average.
Here to help disenfranchised and overlooked voters sort it all out is the Apathyisboring.com website. The founders of this website have been taking a crack at encouraging political participation since 2004. While their focus is on the youth voters, they do offer a handy and well thought out non-partisan primer describing the values and policies of each political party (including lesser known options). This is a link you will want to share with your colleagues, family members and friends. When you have a moment, do check out the 2011 leadership debate online. Debates are one of the best ways you can learn more about the capabilities of party leaders and the perspectives of each party. If you are not certain how the political parties line up with your own personal values, check out the Vote Compass tool on CBC. The results of this tool can help you to see where you sit on the political spectrum.
Happy voting and remember, if you want to avoid the crowds on May 2nd, 2011, vote by mail at your local Elections Canada office or attend an advanced polling station on April 22, 23 and 25th.
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Information about voting by mail or in person at your local Elections Canada office
Mommy Bloggers Flex Their Political Muscle