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Canada's Federal Election is a Critical Moment for 2SLGBTQ+ Communities.
The Federal Election Day is on Monday, April 28, coming up in
There’s so much at stake.
We need to tell our loved ones, neighbours, and candidates
Why We Vote.
Across Canada, the skyrocketing cost of living and housing hits our communities especially hard. Getting the healthcare we need — from HIV care to gender-affirming care — feels like an uphill battle because the system wasn’t built with us in mind.
For many 2SLGBTQ+ people — including seniors, refugees, youth, and people living with disabilities — it’s becoming that much tougher to get by during an affordability crisis that’s affecting everyone.
Every election matters, but at a time when the rights and dignity we’ve fought so hard for are under attack at home and abroad, it’s never been more important to make sure we show up. We matter. We vote.
During this federal election, we're sharing why we vote, and encouraging you to do the same.
Cost of Living and The Trade War
Everything is too expensive; we need relief. Corporations need to be held accountable, and wages and social assistance must increase. Canada must unite against US tariff threats that will only make the situation worse.
2SLGBTQ+ Human Rights, Safety, and Wellbeing
We refuse to give in to rising anti-2SLGBTQ+ hate. The law should protect and uplift all Canadians, not divide us. This includes 2 Spirit, queer, and trans Canadians.
Housing and Homelessness
Across Canada, many of us are struggling to afford rent and housing. We need to protect renters, empower average house hunters, and get shovels in the ground.
Healthcare
Everyone has a right to accessible, affirming, and timely healthcare. We need to improve access to primary care for everyone, and reduce barriers for trans communities and people living with HIV/AIDS.
Mental Health, Substance Use, and Harm Reduction
We’re living through a drug poisoning and mental health crisis. Communities need to be supported, not penalized.
Refugee Support
LGBTQ+ refugees have so much to offer Canada. We need to make good on our commitments and help them thrive.
Climate Action
Over the coming decades, the impact of the climate crisis will become increasingly present.
How to Vote
Your ID: 1 to 2 pieces of identification (ID) showing your name and qualifying address are needed when you go to vote. Click here to learn more.
- You are not required to show ID that includes a sex/gender indicator.
- The names on the two pieces of ID you show to vote must be the same and match the name in your voter information. If your name is not the same on the two pieces of ID, you will not be able to vote by showing these two pieces together. It’s recommended to pick two IDs from the recommended IDs list that do have matching names.
- If you don’t have ID, you can still vote by declaring your identity and address in writing and having someone who knows you and who is assigned to your polling station vouch for you.
Your Safety: If you feel that your voting location is not a safe space for you, you can choose to vote by mail or vote early at any Elections Canada office.
Your Address: Eligible electors without a fixed address can show an official letter called a Letter of Confirmation of Residence. If you have gone to an establishment that offers food, housing, or other social services, you can ask the administrator of the establishment for this letter (eg. shelter, community centre).
Can't Vote? You can still get involved!
You must be a Canadian Citizen, and at least 18 years old on election day.
We know how frustrating it can be to feel left out of decisions that impact you and your loved ones. But don’t forget—your voice and your efforts still matter! Even if you can’t vote, you can still get involved, be part of the conversation, and make a difference.
Making a difference starts with showing up. Ensure that those around you are ready to make their voices heard. Direct the people in your life who are eligible to vote to go to Elections Canada to register.
Getting folks to make a plan on how they will get to the polls or cast is a tried-and-true way to increase the likelihood someone will vote.
Help your friend, family member, or neighbour make a concrete plan that helps them visualize the steps they’ll go through on Election Day. Some sample questions to ask:
- Do you know where your polling place is? How will you get there?
- Do you need help with transportation?
- Do you know when to mail your ballot if you’re voting by mail?
- Do you know what ID you’ll need to bring to the polls?
Talk to your family and friends in person about what’s happening in the news and how they feel about it. Remind them that their elected officials often have a say in changing the events that your loved ones are most passionate about.
There’s no better way to get involved in the political process than by volunteering in an election. Research the party’s platforms and contact your local candidate to volunteer. Volunteering can look like knocking on doors, making phone calls, helping distribute signs, and so much more.
Queer Momentum is seeking volunteers for the Federal Elections campaign. Click here to learn more.
There’s no better way to experience democracy in action than working an Election. Elections Canada is hiring for short-term positions, as well as for election-day staff Click here for more information. To be a pool worker, you must have Canadian citizenship, but staff working for local Elections Canada may not require citizenship status, click here for more information