The importance of speaking up helps shape Canada for the better, not just for yourself, but also for your siblings, family, and friends. In Canada, for example, civic engagement at all levels begins at the age of 18, according to Elections Canada.
Unfortunately, many students and young people are excluded from the policy-making process. Even if outreach programs exist, they are limited in scope and time due to budget constraints. Yet young people need to be urged to take advantage of the media in order to elevate their voice.
So many young people aged 18-24 are excluded; for example, in 2021, more than half did not vote at the federal level. At the Ottawa Latest News, it is our slogan to echo your voice, experience, and respect to the political debate. The freedom of expression allows all Canadians; like young people, students, and adults to express themselves whether they agree or disagree in a peaceful and polite manner and share their voice.
Crucially, in 2022, only 43 percent of all voters casted ballot in the provincial election, which includes youth and adults in Ontario combined.
These figures are disturbing; they create anxiety and loneliness for the people of the province and for the entire country. It affects everyone in the end due to a lack of balance in the election results.
More young people should take advantage of the benefits that the media provides, such as opinions, stories, and guest articles.
At the Ottawa Latest News, we give all young people a platform to express their voice and opinions.
Why is it so vital to speak up? Students, young people keep democracy alive
