Election is prime time to engage with politicians

In this country, we have the privilege of being able to do more than just complain

As we enter the second week of Quebec’s election campaign, I am realizing that when it comes to elections, Quebecers largely fall into two camps. The first group consists of those in the know. They read the papers, watch video footage from the campaign, plan on following the debates and observe the parties’ moves very carefully. It seems, however, such people are few and far between. The much larger second group seem only to know that elections are coming up, having noticed all the posters. They probably could not name the party leaders or three of their top platform ideas. This is especially concerning given the rising presence of the far right, including La Meute, and what seems to be a never-ending case of dog-whistle identity politics in this province.

Too often we hear friends, family members and neighbours complain about the roads, their taxes, the wait times in hospital emergency rooms and so on, but then look like they want to block their ears when you start to talk to them about the elections and where the political parties stand on important issues.

For those who want to do more than complain, it is essential to get involved in the electoral process. Our elected officials are more accessible at election time. This is the time to ask the tough questions, talk to them about

Reach out to candidates online, follow them on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

the policy you may or may not agree with, and engage with them. Too often we see our elected officials engaging with the same people again and again.

There’s more to an electoral campaign than just going to vote, although that, of course, is essential. If something happens to a local community or project you care about, remember it, jot it down if you have to, and ask your elected officials and candidates about it. Many politicians are choosing to become increasingly accessible to their constituents by harnessing the power of social media. Take the opportunity to reach out to candidates online, follow them on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Engage with them, attend events they are hosting and take advantage of this unique period when they may have more time to answer your questions. It’s important as well to follow up after the election on the issues, promises and commitments made. Holding our elected officials to account is a privilege not afforded to the majority of those on this planet.

Growing up as the child of immigrants, politics always felt out of reach, even though I was born here. I knew it was important, but because I didn’t see many politicians from minority communities I never felt like I mattered, or what my family wanted or needed mattered. What that does is lead to a disconnect with the electoral process.

While there’s still not a whole lot more representation in the political sphere here in Quebec, I have come to appreciate the impact that positive politics, inclusive policies and healthy debate can have on a society. Unfortunately, that realization was birthed from uncomfortable, divisive and dirty political campaigns of the past. Knowing what is at risk has fuelled my desire to familiarize myself with the political process.

Growing up, I’d often hear stories of the land my parents left behind: the corruption, the unethical politicians who would steal cars out of driveways and take bribes in exchange for services rendered. I would cringe when my questions about how that could be were met with a shrug and an explanation that it is how things are in certain parts of the world.

The privilege of being able to meet with our elected officials, asking the questions that matter, and being included in the electoral process in a way that makes a difference is not one to be taken lightly.