West Vancouver, Lower the Voting Age to 16
West Vancouver, Lower the Voting Age to 16
The Issue
In recent years, youth engagement in politics has declined - evidenced through the low youth voter turnout rates, fewer youth issues being discussed in political discourse, and a lack of representation of youth voices. Yet, the policies enacted today impacts the lives of youth, both now and in the future. Issues such as student loans, climate change, and the evolving job market will most directly affect the youth. Thus, it is essential that they have a voice. After discussions with more than a dozen MPS, it is clear that many of our nation's leaders believe that lowering the voting age to 16 is a step in the right direction. Allowing 16-years-olds to vote encourages the youth to research, share their concerns, and stay engaged within our democracy throughout their adolescent years and the rest of their lives. This change aims not only to boost youth engagement but also to extend a fundamental democratic right: the right to vote. West Vancouver can support youth by considering lowering the voting age for municipal and school board elections and by advocating for this important issue to the BC government.
Why is this important?
Although the youth are only 20% of our country today, they are 100% of our future. Keeping the voting age at 18 leaves out a vital demographic of young individuals who are ready, eager, and informed to vote NOW! Youth in our society are often disheartened by global news and deeply desire to make a difference. However, they are frequently dismissed and lack the means to bring about meaningful change. Having the vote allows their issues to be pushed to the forefront of political discussion, and help the youth understand that they are important, their issues do matter, and they can make the difference they wish to see in the world. By lowering the voting age, we can elevate young peoples' voices and foster a generation of engaged citizens who are confident participants in their democracy. It's time for West Vancouver to recognize the potential of its younger citizens and lower the voting age to 16.
We urge this amazing, vibrant, and diverse community to please push this forward. Please sign this petition to support this important cause.
89
The Issue
In recent years, youth engagement in politics has declined - evidenced through the low youth voter turnout rates, fewer youth issues being discussed in political discourse, and a lack of representation of youth voices. Yet, the policies enacted today impacts the lives of youth, both now and in the future. Issues such as student loans, climate change, and the evolving job market will most directly affect the youth. Thus, it is essential that they have a voice. After discussions with more than a dozen MPS, it is clear that many of our nation's leaders believe that lowering the voting age to 16 is a step in the right direction. Allowing 16-years-olds to vote encourages the youth to research, share their concerns, and stay engaged within our democracy throughout their adolescent years and the rest of their lives. This change aims not only to boost youth engagement but also to extend a fundamental democratic right: the right to vote. West Vancouver can support youth by considering lowering the voting age for municipal and school board elections and by advocating for this important issue to the BC government.
Why is this important?
Although the youth are only 20% of our country today, they are 100% of our future. Keeping the voting age at 18 leaves out a vital demographic of young individuals who are ready, eager, and informed to vote NOW! Youth in our society are often disheartened by global news and deeply desire to make a difference. However, they are frequently dismissed and lack the means to bring about meaningful change. Having the vote allows their issues to be pushed to the forefront of political discussion, and help the youth understand that they are important, their issues do matter, and they can make the difference they wish to see in the world. By lowering the voting age, we can elevate young peoples' voices and foster a generation of engaged citizens who are confident participants in their democracy. It's time for West Vancouver to recognize the potential of its younger citizens and lower the voting age to 16.
We urge this amazing, vibrant, and diverse community to please push this forward. Please sign this petition to support this important cause.
89
The Decision Makers
Petition created on August 6, 2024