On May 17, British Columbians will vote in the province's 38th general election. In the last provincial election, 45 per cent of eligible voters didn't bother to vote. Maybe they just needed a good reason - here are 20.
Because it's your right.
Because history is made by those who show up to vote.
Because voters get to make the decisions. Non-voters don't.
Because democracy doesn't work without your involvement.
Because your vote can make a big difference. Some elections, including one here in B.C., have been won by a single vote.
Because many people, perhaps your own ancestors, fought and bled and died for the right to vote. Some still do today.
Because voting is the most direct and available way to influence the actions and policies of elected officials.
Because it's your tax money and you should have a say in how government spends it.
Because children and teenagers who are too young to vote are counting on you.
Because your vote is a secret you can keep. No one can compel you to reveal how you voted, not even in a court of law.
Because politics shouldn't be like the weather, where everyone complains but nobody does anything about it.Because voters control government through the ballot box. Just ask the candidates.
Because it's your responsibility; you get to live in British Columbia.
Because you'll make someone happy - the candidate you support.
Because a walk to the voting place and back is good exercise.
Because you'll meet your neighbors and they might invite you over for coffee.
Because this may be our most important election ever, in which we decide by referendum whether or not to change the entire voting process.
Because Winston Churchill was right: "Democracy is the worst form of government except for all those others that have been tried."
Because author Jane Auer was also right: "Voting is one of the few things where boycotting in protest clearly makes the problem worse rather than better."
And finally, best of all: Because it feels good.
Harry Neufeld is the Chief Electoral Officer of British Columbia.
***Polling is taking place at the local schools between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
