Why Vote?

by Meenal Shrivastava

Here’s a reminder that municipal elections in BC are scheduled for October 17, while provincial elections will follow hot on their heels on October 24, 2026.  

Given the amplification of bad news from near and far, it is justified to feel cynical about the upcoming elections, but the only way change happens is if we take every opportunity to show up. 

Your vote matters because elections matter.

Why vote in Elections?

Voting is both a right and a civic duty in a representative democracy like Canada. 

Voting strengthens democracy and signals to policymakers which issues matter most to the public. 

Voting allows us to select representatives who align with our values and priorities, ensuring that our concerns are reflected in policies that affect us and our community. 

Elections are an opportunity to make life materially better in our community and build power to drive change well beyond municipal borders on some of the most important challenges we face – environmental sustainability, food security, affordable housing, stronger services, and thriving public spaces.

Thus, voting in elections is a fundamental way to shape policy and hold leaders accountable. 

Voter Turnout & Disinformation

Voter turnout in the last provincial elections was 58.45% and for the North Saanich 2022 local government election, it was only 35.43%.

This political disengagement is a concern for Canadian democracy as it undermines the democratic process and the overall health of the country. When fewer people participate in elections, the government may not fully reflect the will of the people, leading to policies that favour certain groups and ignore the needs of others. Politically well-connected lobbyists win when voters stay home. 

The modern media landscape dominated by social media has played a vital role in shaping voter engagement across Canada. Research shows that exposure to conflicting or false information not only confuses voters but can actively discourage them from participating in elections. When people struggle to distinguish fact from fiction or grow wary of the media’s intentions, their trust in the electoral process can erode, leading to apathy and decreased turnout.

Please check this easy guide from Elections Canada to defend against disinformation during an election: Resisting disinformation during an election – Democratic Institutions – Canada.ca.

Additionally, in a small and close-knit community like ours, we can counter divisiveness and disinformation by simply talking to our neighbours or directly with the candidates running for local and provincial elections. 

Your Vote Matters

The three levels of government in Canada have distinct responsibilities: the federal government handles matters that affect all of Canada or cross provincial borders; provincial governments control areas that directly affect daily life; and municipal governments handle the services closest to home.

Municipalities can pass bylaws on matters within their jurisdiction (zoning, parking, noise, local business licensing). However, they only have powers that the provincial government grants them, and provinces can override or restructure municipalities at any time.

Nevertheless, local governments offer a tangible path to positive change close to home. They have often been the last line of defence against progressive policy rollbacks and controversial projects approved at higher levels of government without local consent or input.

So please remember that North Saanich will elect a mayor and six councillors. Advance voting for local elections is Oct 7 and 14, and the general voting day is 17 Oct 2026 at the North Saanich Municipal Hall. For information on voting eligibility and registration, please visit the District of North Saanich here.  

A week later, the provincial elections will determine the Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) representing 93 ridings across BC. Advanced voting for the provincial elections will be from Oct 16 to 21, and the general voting day is 24 Oct 2026. For more voter and electoral information, visit the Elections BC site here. 

Please vote. Talk to your family and neighbours to vote.

Because a functioning democracy protects against abuse of power, ensures fundamental rights and freedoms, and promotes peace and stability. 

Your vote is your chance to help shape the direction of your community.  

Important Resources:

Information for Voters | District of North Saanich

2026 Provincial Election | Elections BC

‘I knew it!’—Why misinformation feels so good to share, and what to do about it

Resisting disinformation during an election – Democratic Institutions – Canada.ca

Canada has a disinformation problem—and the tools to fix it | CCPA

Municipal Powers & Services – Province of British Columbia

Government 101: How government works – Province of British Columbia