Oh, Canada (Let’s Talk Politics): Intro

Welcome to Oh, Canada (Let’s Talk Politics)

     If the slightest mention of the word “politics” makes you think of tiresome campaign ads, futile arguing on X (Twitter) and debates filled with logical fallacies and a concerning lack of calls to action, this series is for you.

     Politics served as an abstract and boring concept up until recently, when we have seen direct impacts on youth and their futures, as well as a rise in civic engagement and awareness. Politics in itself is defined as

“The activities associated with the governance of a country or other area, especially the debate or conflict among individuals or parties having or hoping to achieve power.”
-Oxford Languages

     Politics is how we decide who gets what, when and how; how people share power and make decisions that will affect everyone.

     It certainly has an impact on our daily lives, seeping into every facet, and therefore, it can be quite an obstacle to find a starting point to dive into. This is why I present to you “Oh, Canada (Let’s Talk Politics)”. This will be a monthly series here to unpack the very roots and foundations of political ideologies, current affairs and their impact on youth and our local community in a non-partisan and engaging way.

     Politics isn’t solely something upon politicians or policy makers to discuss, rather it is the very system that shapes your rent, rights, future and more. We must take it upon ourselves as young people to be involved in creating a better future for tomorrow, and that starts with awareness and education. Only then can we take the steps to shape policies and make our voices heard when we understand the core principles and the nuances of public affairs.

     Every edition of Oh, Canada (Let’s Talk Politics) will aim to break down the pieces of Canadian politics- ranging from how parliament actually works, to what parties stand for and why city councils’ decisions matter more than you think.

     This series isn’t aiming to make you form a certain opinion; it is here to help you understand how it all works together and why people stand behind the ideologies and policies that they do. The series aims to inform, and it is the responsibility to use the accessibility of the internet to educate themselves further and engage in civil matters.

     There will be a special focus on history and addressing colonization, as it is a key part of politics. Indigenous governance systems were in place long before European colonization. As a part of truth and reconciliation, we must address how colonization and the influence of indigenous governance impact today’s political landscape.

     Canadian politics is built on the foundations of compromise, a double-edged sword that can be a strength as well as the cause of frustration. Being political doesn’t just mean voting or joining parties; it is rather the engagement with issues and empathy that shape our worlds: climate, housing, tuition, healthcare, and rights.

Everything is political when you care, question and demand change for the better.