In a parliamentary democracy like Canada, voting is essential for our nation to move forward. All across our great nation, the voter turnout has consistently been dropping regardless of province. In the rare exception where it does increase, it is often only temporary. With at times less than 50% showing up at the polls, the true election results aren't being conveyed through to the legislature.
A higher voter turnout can easily sway the results of an election, just go ask Naheed Nenshi. It's understood that some are dissatisfied with the current system, but only by making you voice heard can you ever change it, so why wouldn't you? Failing to vote doesn't really benefit anyone. The voters may not get the government the majority they want because you and your friends decided to twiddle your thumbs on voting day. As cliche as it sounds, your vote can make the difference; take for example the 2009 election in BC, just 2,300 votes spread over 8 ridings would have allowed the NDP to form the government. The voter turnout there was barely half of the electorate. Where were you on May 12th?
Overall though, always remember that if you don't vote, you can't complain about the current political system. If you choose to do nothing, you have no right to bitch about how much you hate it. Next time, vote then argue with our elected officials. Brave individuals fought and died on the beaches in Europe for this right, so at least take the five minutes every few years to hop in the car, or better yet walk, shuffle behind that box and vote damn it!
The importance of voting is enormous. Get out there and vote the next opportunity you get it. A trip to the local elementary school or community hall will only take a small part out of your day, yet the implications are enormous. A better Canada is a democratic Canada; be a part of it.
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