Being a first-time voter and a post-secondary student while there are elections happening means it’s easy to get lost in the riot of opinions or opt to take a seat on the sidelines of what can seem like a political storm. And of course there are a percentage of us students that are simply too young to cast a vote, although that shouldn’t be a justification for a lack of interest. Making the time to observe what’s happening, consume information about the elections, and understand who is on your ballot can seem impossible, but it’s essential for having an understanding on the impact and importance of voting.
Everyone knows that no one can tell someone how to vote, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t influences on both new and seasoned voters, with social media constantly giving extreme examples of either intensifying or diminishing relevant and non-relevant issues that serve to separate yourself from peers or family. It’s hard to know where to turn to or how to even begin approaching this arena.
Knowing why an election is occurring can be a significant help in understanding the current political environment and where you stand within it.
Right now our provincial election is taking place two years early. It was called by BC NDP leader, premier David Eby. Why would Eby call an election when already maintaining a majority legislature? The NDP is hoping an election would prevent an economic fallout provincially, as a result of Trump’s most recent tariffs. Many agree with Eby and the NDP party that this is a time to try to keep our economy stable and the province united, while some see through this strategic plan for the opportunity to catch competing parties off guard and result in a re-election.
Having an awareness of what current politicians are offering will help you get a grasp of where you stand on issues such as transit improvements, renter’s protection, minimum wage, and grocery-store profit margins, all of which affect a student’s day-to-day living. So perhaps you can start there, or maybe you remain undecided.
If still undecided, take a look at what the community or society could benefit from: wildfire restoration, drug regulation, environment and energy conservation plans, community developments. It’s important to be in touch with what you personally can benefit from but it’s crucial to understand what the needs of the surrounding communities and local businesses are, as well as what societal demands are required, to keep a strong, united province.
At the end of the day, elections are not a big, scary event. They are here to serve those who exercise their right to take part in the democratic process. Those who do not run the risk of having their needs unmet or misrepresented.
As students, we are thunderous and powerful. Don’t be the quiet one: go vote.