I don’t usually talk about Canadian politics here, because to be perfectly honest, what goes on below the 49th parallel grabs most of my attention. I know I should pay more attention to politics on this side of the border, especially now that I’m a citizen and can finally vote in elections here.
I’ll have three, possibly four opportunities to go to the polls this fall: I’ll be voting in the US election (of course), as well as the Canadian federal election, the Vancouver civic election, and possibly in a by-election to fill the seat vacated by Gregor Robertson, the MLA for my riding (Robertson is running for Mayor of Vancouver).
The CBC has put together an impressive microsite for the Federal election. The site is rich with interactive features, and they’re openly soliciting photo and video contributions from the public. While you’re there, you might want to check out profiles of the party leaders, or brush up on some of the key issues of this election cycle.
For now, I’m going to refrain from endorsing any candidate or party at the federal level. While I admire Jack Layton as party leader, there just isn’t a lot of information out there about Michael Byers, the NDP’s candidate for my riding. Plus, he’s going against the formidable Hedy Fry (the seemingly unstoppable incumbent), and the Green Party’s Adrienne Carr, who has captured quite a bit of support and attention in this neck of the woods.
If American feminists thought they had a difficult choice to make, imagine being a feminist in my riding. 
Watch this space as I learn more about the candiates, the issue, and the electoral process in the True North. Hopefully you’ll learn as much about Canadian politics as I will.
