When Canadians head to the polls in just under two weeks, it will be an election that will see Millennials/Generation Z making up the biggest voting bloc for the first time in the nation’s history.
These individuals born between 1980 and 2000, could make up the largest group of voters and play a significant role in the outcome on October 21, if they turn out and cast a ballot.
That’s not in doubt for two Outlook women who will be voting in their very first election, and who are taking the responsibility very seriously.
Annie Dyck, a grade 12 student, lived in Mexico and the United States before calling Outlook home. While living in Kansas her sister moved to Outlook, and as job opportunities arose other members of the family followed.
Annie’s interest in government heightened as she edged closer to voting age. “I’m definitely getting more interested now,” Annie indicated. “As I grow older I’m hearing more about things and learning more. It’s not about politics as much as it is issues.”
Mari Friggstad, who has lived in Outlook her whole life, is eager to cast a ballot for the first time. “There are people who are making decisions on my behalf. Up until now I’ve had no say in who those people are. So watching the different conclusions that politicians come to that affect my daily life has really made me want to pay attention.”
Nationally, Millennial voters cite the environment, economic growth, housing and health care as top priorities. Some of these resonate with Annie and Mari, but there are other things on their minds, too.
The environment and First Nations’ issues are at the forefront for Annie. “Definitely climate change and conditions on reserves and things like clean drinking water, those are the things I’m worried about,” Annie remarked. “I still need to do my research into what the different parties stand for but definitely climate change and improving reserves matters to me.”
Mari is looking at what candidates are saying about the environment as well as immigration and refugees. “Definitely the environment,” Mari answered when asked what matters most to her. “Climate change is the number one issue on my mind and should be the number one issue that politicians and candidates are addressing and attempting to change.” On the topic of immigration and refugees, she said, “I think Canada has done an okay job on the refugee front but I also think we could be doing so much more.” She would like to see greater effort toward those displaced by environmental impact and those facing persecution.
Postsecondary education is also on the minds of these young voters. Although Annie thinks the promise of free postsecondary education could definitely sway potential voters, she doesn’t believe it is a valid possibility. “It isn’t realistic,” she said,” but I do think they could make it more affordable.”
Mari is concerned about the number of people who might not pursue postsecondary education or are dropping out because of the financial burden. She points to Scandinavian countries that offer free education and the benefits that come with it. “Providing free postsecondary education is a benefit for every person and every student in their country. Having more educated people means people are making more money for your economy and eventually you’ll get a return on that,” she remarked.
As for what some party leaders have faced during the campaign, these voters have strong views. When it comes to the pictures and video of Justin Trudeau in brown/blackface, Annie questions its significance. “I understand why it would be a big deal for some people,” she said, “but it’s not really for me because he didn’t do it to offend anyone. I know it’s very controversial to think that but I don’t think it’s something we should be worrying about. There are other things we should be worrying about more.” However Mari remarked, “It definitely matters to me. It is really disappointing and frustrating to see someone who is making decisions for me have that in their history. Even if there is a change in him now, it was something that he did.’
But the question surrounding Andrew Scheer’s dual citizenship sees the girls in agreement. Annie said, “It’s not a big deal. I have dual citizenship. He shouldn’t have to renounce it.” Mari agreed. “I don’t think that’s necessary. It might aid in ambassadorship. It could be an advantage.”
With just days before they vote for the first time, these women are eager. “I feel like I’m going to have a voice for the first time for my country,” Annie remarked. “It’s going to be eye-opening, just wow, I’m actually doing something that I want for myself and for everybody else and I think it’s going to be really cool.” Mari said, “I think I’ll be pretty excited that I’m old enough finally to have the opportunity to be able to have my say.”
As analysts wonder what the voter turnout might be on October 21 these women have a message for all eligible voters, particularly those who don’t think voting is important. Annie would ask voters if they care about where the country is going in the future. “If you don’t think voting matters I guess they aren’t aware of what’s going on.” Mari would encourage everyone to vote and reminds them “they are helping to change the world.”
