2026 Local Election Toolkit

British Columbia's next local elections are coming up!

On Saturday, October 17, 2026, British Columbians will vote for their municipal councillors, mayors, school board trustees, and other regional representatives.

Humanists share a deep commitment to democratic decision-making. We want to empower you to make an informed choice when you go to vote. This voter information will help you:

  1. Make a plan to vote;
  2. Speak to your candidates on Humanist issues; and
  3. Advocate for your local priorities.

Stay tuned as we release our detailed toolkits!

Your Voting Checklist

Having a plan to vote is one of the best predictors of whether someone will cast their ballot. Use the following checklist to make sure you're ready to vote on or before October 17.

  • 🗹 Am I eligible? I have confirmed my voting status and understand what identification or registration I may need to vote.
  • 🗹 Where will I vote? I know my municipality and electoral area.
  • 🗹 Who is on my ballot? I know what positions and how many candidates I will be voting for (councillors, mayor, school board trustees, etc.)
  • 🗹 What matters to me? I have considered what local issues and priorities are most important to me.
  • 🗹 Who are the candidates? I have researched the candidates for the positions I am voting for and have compared their positions.
  • 🗹 When will I vote? I have chosen which voting date and location I am available to vote on and put it in my calendar.

You will likely be voting for many different positions. Make sure you understand their jurisdiction and authority. You may also be voting on a plebiscite or referendum. Check your local municipality's website for full details.

Our full toolkit is coming soon.

Humanist Issues

Determining your priorities helps you figure out who you want to vote for. Reflect on the issues that are important to you, what kind of community you want to see, and how your local representatives can help create that world.

Then, put your questions to your candidates! Whether you simply review their websites, send them an email, or have these ready when they knock on your door, you'll want to know where they stand on the things that matter to you.

Our supporters told us they wanted to hear from their candidates on the following issues:

  • Secular and Inclusive Public Institutions
  • Affordable, Safe, and Dignified Housing
  • Mental Health, Drug Use, and Community Wellbeing
  • Healthcare Access and Reproductive Rights
  • Climate, Nature, and the Environment
  • SOGI, LGBTQ+ Inclusion and Safety
  • Reconciliation and Indigenous Rights
  • Good Governance, Transparency, and Accountability

Our detailed guidance on Humanist issues will be available soon.

Advocacy

Democracy is not a passive activity. Engage with the candidates seeking your vote, rally your community, and watch out for other interests trying to influence the discourse.



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