Challenging the Myths About Principled Voting
Critics of principled-based voting argue that it could isolate the Muslim community. They claim that by standing firm on our values—on justice, human rights, and political accountability—we are giving an ultimatum to politicians, limiting our influence, and risking political isolation. Others warn that if principled voting doesn’t lead to clear victories, then it proves our approach is ineffective.
These arguments are false.
Principled voting is not about winning or losing. It is not about rewarding or punishing. It is about making politicians, elected officials, and governments recognize that the Muslim community in Canada—now over two million strong—has values that cannot be ignored.
Our Values Are Canadian Values
📌 We will not accept double standards in our democracy.
📌 We will not accept a two-tier system of citizenship.
📌 We will not accept a Canada that enables and funds genocide.
By voting on principle and not fear, we make it clear: our vote must be earned, not assumed.
The more we remain firm, the more we will be respected as a community whose concerns must be addressed by every political party.
The Numbers Speak for Themselves
In over 60 ridings across Canada, the Muslim community holds significant electoral influence. Candidates—regardless of party—must recognize this reality. Even when a candidate we endorse loses, that does not mean we lose influence. The winning candidate must still engage with our community, and the parties will take note of where our votes are cast. This is how democracy works.
Why Giving Away Our Vote Weakens Us
If we continue to vote out of fear or habit, we will never be taken seriously. We will remain a community that politicians assume will, at the end of the day, fall in line.
📌 If our votes are assumed, we will not be respected.
📌 If our votes are not earned, our demands will be ignored.
📌 If we do not stand firm, systemic Islamophobia in Canada will remain untouched.
No government—regardless of party—will be incentivized to address the systemic issues that impact us, from anti-terrorism laws to Islamophobia in the CRA and CBSA, to Canada’s ongoing support for apartheid and genocide in Palestine.
If we do not demand better, nothing will change.
A Stronger Future for Canadian Muslims
Principled voting is not a risk—it is a long-term strategy for real political influence.
✔️ It forces politicians to engage with us seriously.
✔️ It strengthens our community’s political identity.
✔️ It ensures that systemic change remains a real demand—not an empty promise.
The message is clear: we are not a community that can be ignored, sidelined, or taken for granted. This election, we vote with principle.
