EDITOR,
It is said that tolerance is a hallmark of our democratic society and we send our armed forces to other lands to help populations achieve greater democracy. Yet, it has become evident over the years that Canadians have tolerated a serious degradation of our democratic process by simply not voting. However, the title above could become true.
The heading to this letter is a call for change. It is a challenge to the citizens of Squamish to demonstrate to Canada that we value democracy and readily show that by turning out to vote for our favourite candidate on election day.
The turnout rate in Canada is one of the lowest in the democratic world - down from 75.3 per cent in 1988 to 60.5 per cent (2004) and 64.7 per cent (2006). The main reason for not voting is "not interested" (52.1 per cent). Canada is not alone in low turnout rates. Most democratic countries are experiencing the same thing.
This writer lived in another country for many years and voters had to dip their finger or thumb into an inkpot to prove that they had voted. Not only did this prevent multiple voting but it also became a symbol of pride as the ink took a number of days to wash off. Those who did not have a stained finger were held accountable.
So, Squamish, what say you?
Let's have the best voter turnout in Canada on May 2, 2011. We tried to have a better score on reducing our power consumption last week but most other communities beat us. Not this time: Squamish could lead the whole country by simply turning out to vote.
May I call upon each citizen to partner with at least one other person and together, go and vote on May 2 and then go for coffee or a brew and celebrate what it means to be Canadian. Perhaps community clubs and organizations can help motivate greater turnout. There is evidence that the younger you start voting, the more this becomes a lifelong practice and practising the right thing makes perfect.
See you at the voting booth on May 2.
Larry Murray
Squamish
