Naiwen Cao, a 31-year-old immigrant from China who recently became a Canadian citizen, is excited to cast his first ballot in the upcoming federal election. He is particularly interested in how the parties plan to address issues related to the immigration system, as well as Canada’s relationship with China and foreign interference. Cao, who works at the Centre for Newcomers in Calgary, believes that newcomers should be set up for success in Canada. He is still deciding which candidate in his riding aligns best with his values and concerns.
One of the issues that Cao is focused on is ensuring that immigrants integrate well into Canadian society. He was relieved to see that all parties disagreed with Liberal incumbent Paul Chiang’s controversial comments about turning over a candidate to Chinese officials. Cao values Canadian values and the way people are treated in Canada, and wants to see a government that prioritizes inclusivity and fairness. He plans to wear a red T-shirt with a Maple Leaf on election day as a symbol of his enthusiasm for voting and his patriotism for Canada.
A survey conducted by the Institute for Canadian Citizenship found that a significant number of new Canadian voters are open to changing their minds before polling day. The survey also highlighted that many new Canadians are concerned about the cost of living, health care, and housing. Despite the ongoing trade war being a major focus of the election campaign, new Canadians seem to be more concerned about making ends meet and ensuring a stable future for themselves and their families. This level of civic engagement among new Canadians is seen as a positive sign for Democracy in Canada.
Daniel Bernhard, CEO of the Institute for Canadian Citizenship, stated that new Canadians are more open to persuasion when it comes to choosing a political party, as they have not yet formed deeply ingrained party affiliations. Valeria Shibanova, an immigrant from Russia who became a citizen in 2022, expressed her struggle in deciding between Liberal and Conservative candidates, given her concerns about both parties’ policies on immigration and the housing crisis. This highlights the thoughtful and considered approach that new Canadian voters take in making their decision.
Rizwan Ahmad, a 27-year-old immigrant from Pakistan, is set on voting Conservative in the upcoming election. Ahmad, who works at the Centre for Newcomers in Calgary, became a Canadian citizen in 2020. He is particularly concerned about the issues of housing and inflation, which have been affecting young people in Canada. Ahmad believes that voting is empowering and appreciates the democratic process in Canada. Overall, the engagement of new Canadian voters in the upcoming election reflects a commitment to shaping the future of the country and addressing key issues that impact their lives.
