Alienation and Nationalism: Is it Possible to Increase First Nations Voter Turnout in Ontario?

Abstract

This article assesses whether First Nations voter turnout in Ontario can be increased under a different electoral system. The ways in which the first-past-the-post electoral system affects voter turnout among First Nations is assessed, including an historical examination of Aboriginal electoral politics in Canada and corresponding low levels of voter turnout. Newly-collected, cross-time comparative data are presented on First Nations voter turnout in Ontario elections. The data are assessed within the context of Aboriginal alienation and nationalism, with the purpose of determining the role that each plays in affecting First Nations turnout. Finally, options for improving Aboriginal voter turnout, more generally, are evaluated.

Keywords: Aboriginal peoples, Canada, electoral reform, voter turnout