You've got power because politicians listen to numbers!

Believe it: if you're between 18 and 34, you make up a huge chunk of this country. More than 7 million Canadians (or 23% of the total population) are in this age group. That's a whole lot of power!

Here's another number: $100 billion dollars.
That's how much Canadians aged 18-34 spend each year. Money talks. And politicians listen.

Did you know? When the Feds hit the election button in 2004, barely 27% of young voters 18-21 in Canada voted. Compare that with the general voting turnout of 61%.

So what does this mean? Politicians are ignoring us and listening to senior citizens because they are 4 times more likely to vote than youth.

Voting will show them that we mean something to this country!

Make the politicos deal with issues that are important to you. Challenge them on their record, their promises and their vision of Canada.

You want one more reason? The world is watching. Millions of people around the world can't vote because their governments won't let them. By turning out to vote, you're also showing support for those who don't have the option. Democracy is worth caring about.

The government affects your life!

A survey was conducted with young Canadians on issues that are important to them. This is not a statement by Youthography or MuchMusic, just a reflection of your opinions.

Top 10 Issues For Canadian Youth

1. Education - The government has raised tuition by 138% over the past ten years and too many people are falling through the cracks because of a lack of education funding. We are the ones who are the most affected by this issue. If we don't speak up for education it will never be a priority.

2. Healthcare - All parties have a different approach to healthcare. Find out how each approach might affect you and your future. Your vote will affect the healthcare you receive in the future.

3. Sponsorship Scandal/Accountability/ Ethics - You need to feel that you can trust the people in charge of your money. Don't vote for promises, vote for delivery! Vote for someone who you can put faith in to be responsible and honest to this country.

4. The Economy - Are you looking for policies that support businesses to generate jobs? Are you looking for policies that create new employment sectors? Find out which party will help further your economic goals.

5. Same-Sex Marriage and Rights - No matter what your stand, it's clear that the issue of same-sex marriage and rights cannot be ignored. Find out how all parties will deal with this issue. Speak now, or forever hold your peace.

6. Taxes - When you shop you expect to get your money's worth - shouldn't you expect the same when you give your money to our government? Vote for the people who will use tax dollars wisely and put your priorities first.

7. The Environment - If protecting Canada's environment is important to you, as it is to a large number of Canadians, then look for the party that will best act to sustain all of our beautiful ecosystems.

8. Foreign Relations - How do you want our country to be perceived by the rest of the world? A peacekeeper? A market leader? A home for immigrants? Whatever your vision, make sure your leader represents it.

9. Leadership - You're not just voting for a party or set of ideas, but for someone who can represent you. When our Prime Minister meets with other leaders, is that someone you can be proud of?

10. Social Issues - Canada has always had policies to benefit the less fortunate. All political parties have a plan to strengthen our social infrastructure. Vote for the party that shares your ideas and beliefs on social issues for a better standard of living.

These are your issues. If we don't care about them, who will?

Things to think about before you vote:

You're not voting so much for the person as you are for the party - does this party reflect your interests?

"Decisions are made by those who show up."
- The West Wing, episode 403, 'College Kids'

It's your country. It's your future. It's your vote.