To the editor;
Why bother voting? My vote won't count anyway, and I don't trust any of the party leaders – they're all corrupt. You've probably heard these or similar sentiments many times, and they're not without merit. So why did I vote already (in the advance polls), and why am I encouraging everyone to get out and vote on Monday, especially those who never have?
One reason is my friend and neighbour Jose Figueroa, who has spent the last two years in sanctuary in a Langley church because this Conservative government has refused to intervene in his case and remedy the injustice his family continues to suffer. Opposition MPs (from the NDP) have been much more supportive, and I'm confident a change in government will result in a just resolution for the Figueroa family.
Another reason is that Mr. Harper's version of Canada is not one I can feel proud of. When First Nations are low on the radar, scientists are muzzled, and supports for our seniors and veterans are cut, we all suffer. We've gone from evidence-based decision-making and international peacekeeping to ideologically motivated fear mongering and questionable combat missions. Again, the NDP opposition has taken a strong stand on these issues and promises to help build a Canada that works for all of us!
Finally, electoral reform is long overdue, and a commitment from the NDP to implement proportional representation for the next election ought to motivate those disillusioned voters who want their vote to matter. Mr. Mulcair's policies align closely with the values of many Canadians, and the Cloverdale-Langley City NDP candidate, Rebecca Smith, is easily the most competent person running in this new riding. I'm ready for change, and I hope you'll join me in voting for a better Canada. In the words of the late Jack Layton, "hope is better than fear."
Jonathan Dyck