In the 2022 Ontario elections, Premier Doug Ford announced October 24th as the election day, a date that coincided with Diwali, the most sacred and meaningful religious holiday for Hindus and Sikhs alike (Bandi Chhor Divas – a Sikh Religious Holiday). This decision posed a significant conflict for thousands of Ontarians, effectively disenfranchising them by forcing them to choose between participating in a vital democratic process and observing their religious traditions.

Hindu Forum Canada (HFC) has always stood firm in advocating for the rights and representation of Hindus, as well as for religious equality and upholding the Canadian Values, rights and freedom. Participating in elections is not only crucial for ensuring that every voice is heard in our democracy but is also a fundamental right that must be accessible to all residents of Ontario, regardless of their religious beliefs.

Recognizing the impact that this scheduling decision would have on the Hindu and Sikh communities, HFC, in conjunction with other community leaders, requested that the Premier, Doug Ford, change the municipal election date from Monday, October 24, 2022, to Tuesday, October 25, 2022. This simple adjustment would accomplish several goals, the most important of which is ensuring religious equity.

This request was not without precedent. In 2007, the Ontario Liberal Government changed the election date due to a conflict with another religious holiday, acknowledging the importance of accommodating all communities in such matters. Holding the Ontario municipal elections on Diwali would have mirrored this situation, with the potential to disenfranchise a significant portion of Ontario’s population.

To put it into perspective, imagine if Election Day fell on Christmas—how would this affect the ability of Christian Ontarians to participate in the democratic process?

Thanks to the powerful and purpose-driven advocacy efforts of HFC, the election date was successfully moved, ensuring that all Ontarians could exercise their right to vote without compromising their religious obligations. This success is a testament to our unwavering commitment to engaging with the community, decision-makers, and policymakers to protect and promote the rights of all religious groups in Ontario.

Hindu Forum Canada will continue to advocate for religious equity, ensuring that all communities are respected and that their rights are upheld in our diverse and vibrant province.