top of page

PERMANENT RESIDENTS - CAMPAIGN TO VOTE

Did you know that of the 176,155 immigrants in Winnipeg, 67,265 are permanent residents, but not yet citizens. This means about 10% of Winnipeg’s population and 38% of the immigrant population cannot vote. We want to change this and make sure these voices are heard!

What You Should Know:

​

Currently, in order to vote in Winnipeg, you need to be:

  • 18 years of age,

  • Have lived in Winnipeg for at least 6 months

  • Be a Canadian Citizen.

 

We would like to change the rules and allow permanent residents who have lived in Winnipeg for at least 1 year, the right to vote at a local level.

​

Many other countries allow non-citizens to vote in elections. Toronto and Vancouver city councils both recently passed a motion to ask the province to change legislation to allow permanent residents to vote at the city level.

​

We believe allowing permanent residents the chance to vote will promote inclusion and belonging amongst newcomers and give voice to thousands of residents and tax payers. As you know:

​

  • Even if you are not a citizen, if you own a home, you pay property taxes to the city.

  • Even if you are not yet a citizen, you likely utilize many city services like the bus, garbage pick up, libraries.

  • Therefore, we believe permanent residents should have a say in who will be elected and make decisions at a local level

bottom of page