You are never too young or too old to get involved – the contributions you make today will help shape decisions made in the future….
Canada is a democracy, which means Canadian citizens – no matter the age – have the right to be involved directly or indirectly in the decision-making process. Here are ways to do it.
First, find out ‘where you are’ politically:
Politics are based on our personal values, and a questionnaire you can find at www.politicalcompass.org might give you an idea about the political movement that best matches your beliefs.
How to get involved:
Pay attention to election campaigns and vote – that alone makes the biggest difference. Share your ideas, comments, and concerns with the people you elect because every MP, MLA or City Counsellor has been ‘hired’ to listen and act in the public’s interest. If they don’t do this the way you like, choose someone else at the next election. Every political group and every election campaign has an open door for those who want to volunteer, donate, organize and work to earn the public’s support. You might enjoy it!
Be open to other viewpoints:
Don’t just look for news or commentaries that present things you believe in, take time to read and hear other perspectives and ideas. We may not agree with them, but if we respect others’ rights to disagree with us, our political conversations will be a positive force for our democracy
Talk to the family:
If you have kids, find some time every now and then chat with them about the affairs of the day and ask them what they think and why. A big news story that’s dominating the headlines might open up a really good opportunity. You might be surprised at how much they’re actually plugged in, but you might also uncover things that sound like trouble, especially some of the content they find online.
Find out if they have ‘civics’ classes at school, particularly in the higher grades, and if they don’t, find a moment to talk to their teacher or a member of the school board. Our youngsters are going to end up running the place, so learning now about how government works should be important.
When people think of participating in the democratic process the first thing that usually comes to mind is voting in an election. However, this is just one of many ways in which you can get involved. Participation begins with simple actions such as taking an interest in what’s happening in your community or forming your own opinion about a particular topic or issue and then doing something about it. Take a look at the list below for more ways to get involved.
School
CALLING ON TEACHERS
Teachers have a unique and important role in helping shape the next generation. They also have a key responsibility to educate young Canadians on our democratic system. This can be a tough topic to cover, but it is important for youth to learn how to get involved from coast to coast to coast.
Looking for inspiration for teaching civics, history, or another subject? Need activities and lesson plans to help your students understand governance? The Parliament of Canada can help, with free tools for teachers and students of all ages.
To access these resources, visit: https://lop.parl.ca/About/Parliament/Education/teacher-resources-e.html
Join the Young Canadians’ Parliament (YCP) The Young Canadians’ Parliament (YCP) is a growing movement of young people under 18 who are standing up for their rights – even at the highest levels of government.
Launched in 2020, the YCP program educates young people about their rights and Canada’s democratic system. Children and youth also learn how to advocate for themselves and others in their community.
Together, young people are speaking up on the issues that matter most to their generation. Members of the YCP have the opportunity to interact directly with Parliamentarians through a variety of workshops teaching them ways to take action, get involved and make a difference!
What’s in it for me?
Meet other kids and youth across Canada
Receive a certificate of completion at the end of the one-year program
Receive an official letter of recognition for 15 hours of volunteer services
Gain exposure to networking and career development opportunities
Learn more ways to take action, get involved and make a difference!
For more information visit:
https://childrenfirstcanada.org/campaign/young-canadians-parliament/
Community
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