Canadians go to the polls on October 21st to elect their Members of Parliament and a new government. But why does this election matter, and why is it important for CUPE members to get out and vote?
Because since becoming prime minister, Justin Trudeau has broken more promises than he has kept. Whether it’s his broken promise to end corporate tax loopholes and reform Canada’s outdated and unfair electoral system, or his use of back-to-work legislation against striking postal workers, Trudeau has let us down and he needs to know Canadians expect him to keep his promises.
Because Conservative leader Andrew Scheer calls himself “Stephen Harper with a smile”—and smile or no smile, we refuse to fall back to the ways of the Harper era. The Conservative Party hasn’t learned much since their loss in 2015. In fact, they’re more callous and intolerant than ever. If elected, we know Andrew Scheer will slash funding for important public services like health care, roll back action to prevent climate change, and hand the reins of government over to big money and special interests. We can’t let that happen.
Because more and more Canadians are falling behind, and together we have the power to make life better for everyone. A plan to make housing and life-saving medication more affordable is on the ballot. A plan to create good-paying jobs while fighting the climate crisis is on the ballot. This election is a chance for us to confront the challenges of today and vote for the best solutions for working people.
Every election matters and this one is no different. Every one of us has the power to vote for a better Canada—the Canada we know is possible.
The federal election is going to be here before you know it. Here are a few ways you can be ready for October 21st:
- Make sure you’re registered to vote. Share voting information with your fellow members, family and friends—and make sure everyone of voting age in your household is registered. Sharing this information with your members is an easy non-partisan way you can help. People who are registered are more likely to actually vote. Visit www.elections.ca to find out how to register.
- Get to know the issues. Invite someone from CUPE to speak about the election at your executive and/or membership meeting. Not comfortable talking politics at your union meeting? Not a problem, we can find someone who is. Just ask your national representative or send an email to politicalaction@cupe.ca.
- Get involved. Find out if your local has a political action committee and see if you can get involved. On your local’s executive? Get some help with your election plan! Contact CUPE’s election organizer via your national representative or send an email to politicalaction@cupe.ca.
