NOT JUST A RIGHT BUT A CIVIC DUTY

A war is being waged in Iraq, an illegal one, but one that provides an important lesson. The Iraqi people held their first real election a little while ago. For years, they were under the despotic rule of Saddam Hussein.

In January, Canadians will go to the polls. Again. Just like they did 18 months ago. Well, approximately 60% of eligible voters will go to the polls, which is really embarrassing.

People in other countries have died for the right to vote, and in a lot of cases, even when they do, they are really just voting for a single party. A. Single. Corrupt. Party.

The United States was founded because some people did not like that the King was setting taxes on them without their input. There was no vote for the king, so they revolted.

Those Canadians who do not vote are doing a disservice to themselves, and more importantly to their country. You don't have to be informed on all the issues but you should know where each party stands on the important ones - education, health care, taxes, etc. - and vote based on that.

By casting a vote, you are not only taking part in the democratic process in Canada, but also taking part in it for everyone in the world who cannot.