Questions, roadblocks linger 31 years after people with intellectual disabilities get the vote

At the Light House Adult Day Program, Kyle Craig and others have open conversations with people who have intellectual disabilities about the election.

Craig says they don't talk about which party is strong or weak on particular issues. Instead, their focus is on what is happening in the community, why it's important and answering questions that come up.

"There was some talk about like what's the actual process look like," he said.

But he has heard of situations where the people who come to the day programs say they've been heavily influenced by those around them when it comes time to vote.

That's a concern Kory Earle has heard, too. Earle is the president of People First Canada, an advocacy group that represents those with intellectual disabilities.

Many don't have a chance to see election information in a form that they can easily understand, he said, and their understanding of the issues can be influenced by those they spend time with.

"People want their independence when they go to the polls," Earle said. 

He said a conversation should be had with those who are going to vote, but that any type of pressure or intimidation should be avoided. 

Barriers to voting

Earle also says there are a number of barriers to voting that the intellectually disabled face, including a comprehension of the issues.

Barriers include getting to and from polling stations. For those without a drivers license this can be particularly difficult, and even more so for individuals in rural areas where there is no public transportation.  

Shelley Fletcher, executive director of People First Canada says that Elections Canada is getting a lot right when it comes to this issue. Elections Canada has an advisory group for disability issues, which Earle is on.

Much of the election literature is now written in "plain language," she said. Using visual aids has also helped. 

"They really, really are listening to the barriers people are facing when they go out to vote," she said, adding that people who need special accommodations will really notice the difference from their experience in the last election.

Earle said there's more work to be done, but he hopes everyone eligible to vote does so.

"We just encourage people to get out on Monday and vote," he said. "It's an opportunity for voices to be heard right across this country."