Archbishop urges support for voter enrolment

Common Grace Aotearoa is organising a campaign to enrol people to vote and to remind them to follow through and vote this election. It is inviting faith communities to be involved in the initiative.

“We won’t be telling you or your community which parties or candidates to vote for, but together, we can help ensure that thousands of voices that might otherwise get shut out of our democracy get heard this election,” Common Grace stated.

A video has been produced to help churches support voter enrolment. The video includes church and community leaders talking about the voting as an expression of the Christian faith.

Archbishop Martin, speaking first on the video, said: “Following Jesus shapes every part of our lives, including how we participate in our democracy”.  

“Before we vote, we think carefully, not simply about what’s best for ourselves, but about what’s good for our neighbours, our communities and our nation,” the archbishop said.

“As a Christian, I vote because I’m called to love my neighbour and remember the stranger and the newcomer,” he said. “I love my community, and I want everyone to get a chance to help shape the future of Aotearoa.”  

The video noted that the Government has changed the rules on enrolment, meaning that people can no longer turn up on the day, enrol and vote. To be able to vote, people have to be enrolled by October 25.  

“A generation could be left without a voice at the ballot box. And it’s not just people who aren’t enrolled who are affected. Nearly half a million people could miss out on having their voice heard. If you’ve moved house, or your details are incorrect, you may miss out on the chance to vote,” the video warned, urging people to check their personal information at vote.nz by October 25.

Once people check their own details, the video urged them to think of someone who might need a reminder or assistance.

FULL STORY

No Voice Uncounted (Common Grace Aotearoa)

No Voice Uncounted – YouTube (Common Grace Aotearoa)