Political Elections & Strata Communities
While this topic of “political elections” is not discussed at Strata meetings regularly, it is an important democratic right of Canadians and should be made a priority in all of our communities during election times. In my opinion the rights and privileges we enjoy as Canadians also come with great responsibilities.
Article 21 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states:
- “Everyone has the right to take part in the government of his country, directly or through freely chosen representatives.”
- “Everyone has the right of equal access to public service in his country."
- “The will of the people shall be the basis of the authority of government; this will shall be expressed in periodic and genuine elections which shall be by universal and equal suffrage and shall be held by secret vote or by equivalent free voting procedures.”
Further: The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms from the Constitution Act (1982) states:
“Everyone has the following fundamental freedoms:
(a) freedom of conscience and religion;
(b) freedom of thought, belief, opinion and expression, including freedom of the press and other media of communication;
(c) freedom of peaceful assembly; and
(d) freedom of association.”
While Strata communities can somewhat restrict political activities in their corporations, it should be done in the spirit of maintaining a harmonious communal living and not to impede people’s ability to participate in the political process. All of us should encourage our family members, friends and neighbours to exercise our rights as Canadians, and vote!
For more information on this topic please watch our free educational webinar recording.