In light of the upcoming provincial election, we face the same issue that is always brought up when it comes to voters: get the younger demographic out to the voting polls. Youngsters have always been more non-chalant about the elections, which many people find striking as they are the leaders of tomorrow. However, the general participation rate of eligible voters in Canada is baffling, with only 58.8% of our Canadians actually heading to the booths. How does one connect with the young ones?A part of me does understand. An emphasis on Canadian politics is not made at an age when it is relevant. The last two years of high school are where educators should be looking to encourage their students to embrace the opportunity to be an advocate for their beliefs. Many teens argue they haven't a clue about politics or what each party stands for. Even the female demographic should consider their roots. Come on, ladies, once upon a time we couldn't even touch a ballot. So, the question still remains...how do we get this show on the road?
Social media networks such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Blogger have become our main and most prominent way of expressing ourselves. We spend hours checking updates on Facebook, following the tweets of our favourite celebrities or friends, and sharing our opinions with the entire World Wide Web. With such a powerful tool at our disposal, political leaders are now taking advantage. Barack Obama started using Twitter to engage his younger voters. Suddenly, there were young people interested. Political parties are creating Facebook fanpages to get their word out. Even celebrities, like Lady Gaga, take to their Twitter accounts to advocate for gay marriage and other political issues. This is a step forward. One we truly need.
You may not always know what is right or wrong, but do what's right for you. Your vote is important. Your voice is worth hearing. You may not be Lady Gaga, but you have a Facebook page just like her. So, get that X on your ballot, sit back and relax...you've officially made a difference.
So, will we be seeing you at the polls?
Although you do make an excellent point about the younger demographic not being educated enough on politics, those who are and simply choose not to vote, I feel, have their reasons. The candidates and their beliefs are too controversial, the attack ads are a turn off, or in my case, I just find that they're all crooks.But then again, a bit more education on my part could always help. I found a video that executes my not so keen attack ad pet peeve - it's humorous in so many ways. http://www.youtube.com/user/environmentaldefence?v=2ia6zjKO3Fs&feature=pyv
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