Ontario at the Crossroads
A provincial election has been called for Thursday, February 27, 2025. As Ontarians, we have an opportunity to elect leaders who will address the multiple crises before us. As Anglicans, we understand that scripture and our baptismal covenant call us to care for our neighbours and the Earth.
Participating in elections is one of the ways we live out that call. They also give us the opportunity to have conversations about how we can best build up our common life. We have prepared this resource to highlight some of the issues our dioceses have advocated for at the provincial level in recent years.
Ontario is at a crossroads. We face political and economic uncertainty both at home and around the world. Climate-related disasters are increasing in number and severity. We need Ontario communities to be strong, resilient, and cohesive in the face of these challenges. Yet our communities are already facing deepening crises of affordability, inequality, opiod toxicity, farmland and ecosystem loss, and failure to meet even our modest emissions targets.
Will we invest in helping people meet their basic needs in housing, public health, clean energy, healthy farmland, and ecosystems? Or will we leave more and more Ontarians behind, fracturing communities and exacerbating the climate crisis, leaving us more vulnerable to existing and future threats?
How are we called to participate?
Learn about the issues. Much current attention is focused on the potential impact of US tariffs on Ontarians. While this is an important issue, it is not the only one. Issues of poverty, inequality, and enviromental health often take a back seat to macro-economic issues like tariffs. Yet failing to address these underlying issues will increase our vulnerability to tariffs and other shocks.
Pray that all candidates and citizens may be guided by genuine concern for the well-being of all, especially those who are most vulnerable and marginalized in our communities.
Engage in dialogue. Use the materials in the full election resource, developed with our neighbours in the Diocese of Toronto, to engage with candidates at your doorstep, on the phone, or through social media. Talk with you neighbours, friends, family, and fellow parishioners about your concerns and how your values are informing your vote.
Vote. It has been said, "A winter election is cruel and unusual punishment." It may seem difficult or unnecessary, but don't let the winter weather allow others to make this important decision for you! Only 44% of eligbie voters - a record low turnout - cast ballots in the 2022 provincial election. Visit the Elections Ontario website to find out how to get on the voter's list, where and when to cast your ballot, and more. Offer a ride to those who need transportation to the polls. Encourage students eighteen year old and over to vote for the first time. Unhoused Ontarian are also able to vote.