Millions of Canadians are casting their votes today and having their say on the country’s future. Here, 11 Vancouverites who performed their civic duty, tell us what prompted them to head to the polls.

[am2_see_also]

“I think what I found fascinating with this campaign was just how people were so much more engaged. Whether they were at work, or on the bus, or hanging out with friends, everyone was talking politics.” – Mitchell Shaw

“I always vote. It’s my democratic right and process, I love it.” – Marlene Franken

“I think [voting] is always important. Especially now because I’ve got a little one so you know, the decision have a lot more weight, especially in my perspective.” – Mark Igonia

“There was such a push for change this year, that I feel like I needed to listen… What’s the change we’re looking for here? I feel like I needed to participate.” – Karen Martinez

“It’s been a long election. I’m glad it’s over, but I’m glad I voted… There’s a lot of important issues, and a lot of changes happening Canada right now, and some parties are for those changes, and some parties are against those changes.” – Jordan Harris

“It was my first time. It felt really good knowing that we could put an input to our country so everyone make a difference… We are the next generation in this country. We need to prepare ourselves for that.” – Ghazaleh Najafi

“I definitely feel like it’s more important [to vote this year.] With the run of the current government it’s good to be able to try and make a difference.” Stacey Sellars

“Especially at [my] age, we have to get the right people in there that we think we need.” – Dale Rhodes

“It’s important [to vote] because then you have a say. People complain, but this is the only way you’re going to have a say in the process.” – Sukhi Parmar

“I think getting young people involved and making them understand that they can make a difference in they vote in numbers, [has made] my vote this year feel more impactful.” – Terrance Azzuolo

“It’s my first time voting. It was a lot of information… It’s interesting seeing the difference between this year and the other years, the push to get people to vote. I guess this year was finally the year I thought ‘I gotta do it!’ It was a little nerve-wracking, to be honest, but I’m glad I did it.” – Trammie Vo