CIVDEM hosts workshop series aimed at getting youth involved in politics

Across the democratic world, there’s a looming crisis: young people are staying away from polling stations and political offices.

At the last Canadian general election, 54 per cent of Ontarians under age 24 voted, compared to 78 per cent of those between 65 to 74. On the other side of the ballot box, young adults aged 35 and under only make up 10 per cent of global parliamentarians.

That’s why McMaster’s Interdisciplinary Minor in Civic Vitality, Democracy and Electoral Management (CIVDEM) hosted its first Youth Engagement and Representation workshop on Nov 19.

The Youth Engagement and Representation series aims to facilitate discussion around the role of youth in politics. Through online and in-person events, it brings together campaigners, facilitators, and scholars who are exploring youth representation and participation in democracy, and inspire students to take action in the decision that will affect them now and in the future.

At the inaugural workshop, students heard from speakers representing various stages of the democratic process about how young people can be represented at all levels of government.

Aleksi Toiviainen, General Coordinator for Vote16 Canada, spoke about their campaign to lower the voting age nationally, provincially and in cities all across Canada.

Stewart McDonough and Chris Erl from the Association of Municipalities of Ontario Healthy Democracy Project discussed how to accelerate the health of local democracy together, and share details on AMO’s Youth Fellowship Program.

Jesse Williamson, Project Manager of Strategic Youth Initiatives for the City of Hamilton will discuss Hamilton’s Youth Strategy and how the City aims to engage youth aged 14-29 and address the issues they face in Hamilton.

And Alex Wilson, Hamilton’s youngest city councillor, discussed their experiences and how folks under 30 are trying to do politics differently.

Fourth-year Political Science and Sociology student Zimo Wang said the workshop provided a vital insight into how   and individuals are working towards engaging young people in politics.

“It was an inspiring showcase of youth-driven initiatives and leadership,” said Wang. “Hearing from young changemakers like Councillor Alex Wilson and organizations like Vote16 Canada emphasized the importance of amplifying youth voices in shaping the future of our democracy.”