Why Canadian voters living in the Big Apple have a growing interest in the federal election
In a bustling Manhattan bar known as The Canuck, a shrine to all things Canadian can be found. From a giant stuffed moose head to license plates from every province, a gold maple leaf embossed on the floor, and other memorabilia, this bar is a haven for Canadians living in the Big Apple. The Canuck proudly bills itself as New York City’s “premier Canadian hockey and sports bar,” making it a familiar spot for many expats looking to catch a hockey or baseball game that may not be airing on a U.S. television network.
Recently, CBC News met a group of New Yorkers who are also voters in Canada’s upcoming federal election. This election has been dominated by the country’s relationship with the United States, particularly following the imposition of tariffs on Canadian goods and threats by the Trump administration to make Canada the 51st state. These individuals are part of a campaign organized by the Canadian Association of New York (CANY), a networking, social, and charitable group that aims to inform expats from Canada on how to register to vote and cast their ballots from abroad.
According to Reena Bhatt, a vice-president of CANY, Canadians living abroad must vote by mail and ensure that their completed ballot arrives at Elections Canada by 6 p.m. ET on April 28, election day. The application to vote by special ballot must be received by April 22 at 6 p.m. It is crucial for Canadians living abroad to exercise their right to vote and have their voices heard in this important election.
Christine Hutton, Sandra Pike, and Sanjay Gopal, three Canadians living in New York, shared their reasons for voting in this election. Pike expressed that Canada’s identity is being challenged, making it important for her to participate in shaping the country’s future. Gopal, whose parents still live in Halifax, emphasized the importance of voting to support his family’s preferences in their riding. Hutton, originally from Ontario but living in New York for 25 years, highlighted the significance of Canada’s role in the world and the importance of considering foreign policy in her voting decision.
With an estimated four million Canadians living abroad, including approximately 800,000 in the U.S. and thousands in New York City, the expat community holds a significant potential to influence the Canadian political landscape. Elections Canada has reported that 92,000 voting kits have been sent out to Canadians living abroad, with 20,000 already returned.
As the Canadian expat community becomes more engaged in the current election, there is a sense of shared purpose and solidarity. Bhatt noted an increase in interest and engagement among expats, particularly due to the heightened focus on Canada-U.S. relations. This election has sparked a desire among Canadians living abroad to contribute to the national dialogue and be part of shaping the country’s future.
John Stackhouse, author of “Planet Canada: How Our Expats Are Shaping the Future,” emphasizes the untapped potential of the Canadian expat community in influencing Canada’s global presence. Expats like Pike are eager to be part of Canada’s current moment and amplify the country’s voice on the world stage.
In conclusion, the expat community is a valuable resource that can help shape Canada’s future and strengthen its ties with the global community. As expats around the world cast their votes and engage in the national conversation, they are standing shoulder to shoulder with their fellow Canadians to address key issues and contribute to a brighter future for their home country.
