LETTER

Young People, this vote belongs to us!

I often hear that young people are not interested in politics – their low voting participation rate.  But to these detractors, I ask: When have you last talked to a person under 25 years old? I do, and I know that they have great aspirations for their country. 

The Féderation de la jeunesse canadienne française (FJCF) developed the platform “By Youth, For Youth “. Here are the highlights. 

Youth across the country want the government to ensure the sustainability of natural resources for future generations. This include banning single-use plastic, imposing sanctions on companies not meeting their sustainable development obligations, and to go beyond what is expected  in the Paris Agreement.

 

Youth want the country’s economic plan to anticipate an aging workforce, provide incentives for hiring and retaining youth, and ensure that all internships are paid. Youth deplore the lack of a National Mental Health Strategy since suicide remains the second highest cause of death among young people between the ages of 15 and 34, especially in minority communities.

The Official Languages Act should be updated, ensuring its relevancy for all official language minority communities. Pluralism must be emphasized, with more French teachers in French-language schools, in immersion classes and in second language classes across the country.

Youth know that our vote is important: 400 groups and activists across the country are  encouraging us to vote. If we do not vote, our priorities will not be reflected. Anyone not convinced to vote should answer one question: Why let others decide?

The more we take interest in politics, the more politicians will be interested in us.  Familiarize yourself with each party’s platform. Organize a party to watch the debate – it’s as entertaining as a hockey game!  Elections Canada has developed tools to help you unravel all of this.  Just visit their website. 

Let’s not be cynical about politics or the future of our country! Let’s act as agents of change so that tomorrow’s Canadian society is as dynamic, open and inclusive as we want it to be!  On October 21st, go out and vote! Encourage your friends!

Sue Duguay, 

President of the Fédération de la 

jeunesse canadienne française 

(FJCF). (www.fjcf.ca)