Understanding Canada’s political system as a newcomer

Having become a Canadian citizen in September 2024, Javi Reyes is looking forward to exercising one of his most fundamental rights: voting in the federal elections scheduled for 2025.

“Voting gives us the ability to elect a government that takes care of my family and provides us immigrants the safety and security to lead comfortable lives in this country,” says Mexican-born Reyes. “It is our primary way to express how we feel towards our government. I want to canvas for my party of choice, to influence others in my area to vote for our common goals. I would ask everyone to get involved in politics…it cannot be a spectator sport.”

Aditi Kumar, who came to Canada from India, became a citizen in August 2023. She is also looking forward to making her vote count.

“It is really important for everyone to cast their vote, because not everyone does that: they believe that none of the candidates align with their aspirations,” she says. “If that is the case, they are already playing into the hands of other parties.”