Letter: Bill C-23: A ‘Fair Elections’ Act?

In Canada we take for granted the unfettered right of every individual to vote. That there could be any tampering whatsoever with this cornerstone of democracy seems impossible. But if Bill C-23 is passed, it could actually prevent certain demographics from exercising their right to vote.

I urge those groups – seniors, university students and Indigenous peoples – to voice their concerns re. this bill. And as for the rest of Canada? If the majority fail to speak out on behalf of our compatriots, Canadians will no longer be able to shake our heads incredulously at the many instances throughout history where a peoples’ rights have been obstructed; we’ll no longer be able to ask, all fresh-faced and secure in our Canadian goodness “…but why didn’t anybody in that country say anything?”

We won’t be able to ask that question anymore, because we too will have joined those same, silent ranks.

Margaret Currie
Ottawa