Voter turnout among young adults has been decreasing for years, with the lowest participation rates seen in the 18-to-24 age group. In the 2021 provincial election in Nova Scotia, only five percent of voters fell into this age category. In an effort to increase youth engagement in the electoral process, student groups such as Students Nova Scotia are taking action. Students Nova Scotia, a not-for-profit advocacy group representing post-secondary students in the province, is hosting MLA and candidate debates, offering competitions and incentives, and encouraging students to pledge to vote. The goal is to equip young voters with the information and motivation they need to participate on election day.
One initiative that Students Nova Scotia is involved in is the Get Out the Vote campaign, which includes in-person voter information sessions and the establishment of polling stations on university campuses across Nova Scotia. The organization believes that students play a critical role in shaping the future of the government and workforce, emphasizing the importance of addressing the issues faced by young adults in the decision-making process. By ensuring that the concerns of students are reflected in the policies and decisions of the government, they hope to increase engagement and representation of young voters in the political landscape.
The executive director of Students Nova Scotia, G Saleski, emphasizes the importance of young people in the political process, stating that they are not only the future government but are already actively contributing to society. By engaging young voters and ensuring that their voices are heard, Saleski believes that the next government will better reflect the needs and perspectives of all demographics, including young Canadians. With efforts such as hosting debates, providing information sessions, and setting up polling stations, Students Nova Scotia aims to empower young voters to take part in the democratic process and make informed decisions on election day.
Through their various initiatives and campaigns, Students Nova Scotia is working to reverse the trend of declining youth voter turnout and increase political engagement among young adults in Nova Scotia. By providing resources, information, and incentives, the organization hopes to motivate students to participate in the democratic process and have their voices heard on important issues. By incorporating student perspectives into the political landscape, Students Nova Scotia aims to create a more inclusive and representative government that addresses the unique challenges and concerns faced by young Canadians.
The involvement of student groups in initiatives such as the Get Out the Vote campaign demonstrates the importance of ensuring that all demographics are represented in the political process. By engaging with young voters, providing them with the necessary tools and information, and creating opportunities for them to participate, organizations like Students Nova Scotia are working to build a more inclusive and diverse democracy. By empowering young adults to take an active role in shaping the future of their government and society, these initiatives are helping to create a more engaged and informed electorate that reflects the perspectives and needs of all Canadians, regardless of age.
In conclusion, the efforts of groups like Students Nova Scotia to increase youth voter turnout in Nova Scotia are crucial in ensuring that all demographics are represented in the political process. By engaging young adults, providing them with information and resources, and creating opportunities for them to participate, these organizations are working to build a more inclusive and representative democracy. By empowering young voters to have a voice in the political landscape, initiatives like the Get Out the Vote campaign are helping to shape a government that reflects the needs and perspectives of all Canadians, including the next generation of leaders and contributors to society.
