Voting Day

Today is decision day for Canadians (that day is fast approaching for our American neighbours as well). I am reminded of the grade 10 Civics course I taught last year. It's a half-semester course on how the Canadian government and electoral system work in our country. It teaches students to be informed, purposeful and active citizens in their communities, province, country and the world. In teaching the course, I came across the following quote that came to mind today as I headed to the polling station near our home to vote.

"In a democratic state, the power of voting gives to the individual regal authority; but when he surrenders this priviledge to another, he dethrones himself." - Eschines

It baffles me that so many in the free world do not exert their right to vote when around the world, people are denied this priviledge. There are stories of cohersion in so called "democratic elections" of people fearing for their safety (and at times for their life) if they do not vote as they're told. Often, they don't have the option to vote at all. People are fighting oppression to obtain this basic political right which we so freely hold in North America today.

Even in looking at our own country (and of our neighbours to the South), women and many minority groups fought greatly in history for their right to vote when only male land-owners could vote back in the day! We've come a long way... or have we? Why is it that now that we have the right to vote, so many forget what it took to even have the option? It is truly our responsibility as citizens, yet so many passively (and lazily) take it for granted! (go back to the quote if you need some convincing...).

SO, if you think that your vote won't make a difference... or you wouldn't know who to vote for... whatever the excuse... get over it! Become informed, take action and get out to vote! There is no excuse. It is not only our right, but more importantly, it is a priviledge and our responsibility!