In the upcoming referendum, Albertans must decide if they support a new law requiring individuals to provide proof of citizenship to vote in provincial elections. But, Albertans already have to provide proof of ID at the polls when they go to vote.
According to Elections Alberta, there are over 50 accepted forms of identification. The proposed change would require voters to show proof of citizenship, as well as ID showing who they are and where they live.
The questions ask: “Do you support the Government of Alberta introducing a law requiring individuals to provide proof of citizenship, such as a passport, birth certificate or citizenship card, to vote in an Alberta provincial election?”
Barriers to participate
Lori Williams, an associate professor of policy studies at Mount Royal University, says some voters might struggle to obtain all of the documents required in order to cast a ballot.
“You would have to prove not just that you’re a citizen, but that you reside at a particular address,” Williams said. “Putting the bar too high in terms of proving citizenship in order to be able to vote could actually prevent some people from voting.”
Williams also questioned whether or not the proposed change is warranted.
“We don’t have evidence that people who are not citizens, who are not residents of Alberta, are actually voting,” she said.
Demand for clear information
Alex Guevara, a student at Mount Royal University, thinks that voting information is unclear. Guevara highlighted the impact of social media.
“There’s a big source of misinformation with social media and it’s just pouring out there,” Guevara said.
He also commented on the importance of access to accurate information leading up to the referendum.
“I think people really should be making informed decisions about this and not just voting for what’s cool or not,” he said.
The ID question is one of 10 questions Albertans will vote on in the referendum which will take place on Oct. 19.