ST. JOHN'S – As the April 28 federal election approaches, individuals looking to register to vote must demonstrate their identity and residence. This requirement can pose significant challenges for individuals without stable housing or standard forms of identification. Diane Benson, a spokesperson for Elections Canada, highlighted that various solutions are available for those experiencing homelessness to meet these identification requirements.
For individuals using services from shelters or community kitchens, these organizations can often provide letters confirming their residence. For instance, a person living in a temporary encampment who regularly visits a soup kitchen could obtain such a letter from the facility, Benson explained. This type of assistance is crucial for ensuring that unhoused individuals can participate in the electoral process.
Elections Canada accepts a diverse array of documents to establish a voter’s identity. This includes items like hospital bracelets and labels from prescription containers. Additionally, other accepted forms of ID include public transportation cards, statements from government benefit programs, cheque stubs, or medical clinic cards. The breadth of accepted documentation aims to alleviate the barriers faced by those without conventional identification.
Benson acknowledged the inherent difficulties unhoused individuals encounter when attempting to prove their identity and residence. "We get a better understanding of the challenges they face by working with the community groups that know them best," she stated, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with local organizations.
One individual who has successfully navigated these challenges is Susan Smith, chair of the lived experience council with End Homelessness St. John’s, N.L. Smith shared that she was able to cast her vote while unhoused with the assistance of a registered voter, who acted as her voucher. "If you have someone in your neighbourhood that you know who is experiencing homelessness and doesn’t have access to identification or proof of address, bring them along with you," she advised.
The regulations outlined by Elections Canada allow any registered voter to vouch for another person, provided they can verify that person’s identity and residence. However, a registered voter is only permitted to vouch for one individual. This system aims to create avenues for those without standard identification to still have their voices heard in the electoral process.
Voter registration is available through Elections Canada offices or online until April 22. Additionally, voters can register at polling stations during advance polling days or on the official election day, April 28. This flexibility ensures that more individuals have the opportunity to participate in the democracy by casting their votes.
