Not sure where to go? What to do? How to register? We’ve got you covered
Photo via Flickr.
As the B.C. provincial election is to be called on September 21, it’s time for voters to gear up for their most important civic duty. Whether you’re a first-time voter or a seasoned participant, understanding the voting process is crucial to making your voice heard. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you’re ready to cast your ballot.
Check your eligibility
First, you must know if you are eligible to vote. To participate in the B.C. provincial election you must be at least 18 years old as of October 19, 2024, a Canadian citizen, and a resident of B.C. since April 18, 2024.
Register to vote
If you are eligible to vote and are not registered, or have recently moved addresses, you’ll need to update your registration. But don’t worry — registration is easy! You can register online through the Elections BC website, by phone, mail, fax, email, or in person at any Service BC location. Choose the option that works best for you. Elections BC will send registered voters crucial information, such as their voter information card with details on where, when, and how to vote.
Ways to vote
There are multiple ways to cast your ballot, but the only no-contact option is mail voting.
To vote by mail, the voter must request a vote-by-mail package online on the Elections BC website, or in person at a district electoral office. The package can be directly mailed to your address or picked up from one such district electoral office. Once completed, the package must be returned to Elections BC before 8:00 p.m. on Final Voting Day (Saturday, October 19.)
There are three different options for voting in person. The first is voting at a district electoral office. The offices will be open from when the election is announced on September 21 until 4:00 p.m. on Final Voting Day. District electoral offices are still being determined, but if you are a registered voter, you’ll receive that information directly. Otherwise, the locations will be published on the Elections BC website soon. Check the site frequently in coming days to find the closest district electoral office to you –– to the University of Victoria if you live in residence –– and head there to cast your ballot.
Citizens can also vote in advance. Voting locations other than district electoral offices will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. from October 10 – 13 and October 15 – 16, 2024. Anyone eligible can vote during advance voting without needing a special reason. If you’re not registered or need to update your information, you can do so when you vote. Advance voting allows people more flexibility, less pressure, and shorter lines.
And, of course, you can vote on October 19, Final Voting Day. Voting places will take place from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
If you are far away from B.C. during this time, don’t worry, you can still vote. B.C. operates on a “vote anywhere” model, so when the election is called and you have registered to vote, you will receive further information on where to vote. You can also call Elections BC at 1-800-661-8683 toll-free during the election period to find out where to vote. Voting places will also be published on Elections BC and in B.C. community newspapers.
Review, plan, and spread
“The most important thing students can do beyond voting to get involved in an election is get informed,” wrote Isabelle Easton, UVSS Director of Campaigns & Community Relations, in a statement to the Martlet.
Take the time to research the candidates running in your electoral district, and the key issues they are campaigning for. Stay informed on who the candidates are and their political careers.
Once you have determined your candidate, plan when and where you’ll vote. Don’t forget to carry your voter information card and a valid identification with your picture and address: for example, a driver’s license. Make sure to mark the ballot for only one candidate — your vote can be void if the ballot is not clear or if you write your name on it.
Lastly, encourage your friends, family, and community to vote! The UVSS will start a Get Out The Vote (GOTV) campaign alongside different student societies such as The University of British Columbia Alma Mater Society and Simon Fraser Students’ Society. This non-partisan campaign will allow student bodies to provide education to students on the power of casting their ballot. You can also help by sharing this guide and other helpful resources to ensure everyone is informed and ready for election day!
Voting is not just a right — it’s a responsibility. By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to participate in the upcoming provincial election and contribute to the future of British Columbia.
“Your vote matters, the youth vote matters,” said Easton, “and together, we can make a real difference.”
Remember, every vote counts!
