With the federal election on the horizon, some are voicing strong objections to Elections Canada’s decision to schedule advance voting over Easter weekend, arguing it shows a lack of respect for holy days important to both Christians and Jews.
Conservative incumbent candidate for Haldimand–Norfolk, Leslyn Lewis, took to social media to criticize the timing of the advance polls, which are set to take place on Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday via X.
“It’s deeply concerning that while families are gathering, and Christians are celebrating the death and resurrection of Christ, the Liberals have chosen Easter weekend for advance polls,” Lewis said.
“Advance polls are on Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday, which are among the holiest days in the Christian calendar. It’s clear that the Liberals have no respect for the Christian faith. They are only focused on serving themselves so they can hang on to a fourth term in power.”
This criticism has sparked backlash towards the Liberals, who have in the past suggested that they wanted to postpone the 2025 election last year to avoid Diwali, a Hindu festival of light celebration.
At the time, the Liberals amended the Canada Elections Act to “encourage participation in the electoral process.” Changes were made to ensure “an election is not held on a day of religious or cultural significance.”
“Should a fixed date election be held in 2025, it would be held on Monday, October 20th. However, many communities in Canada will be celebrating Diwali at this time. Therefore, a one-time change to the date is proposed so that the potential election would not conflict with Diwali. Instead, the election would be held the following Monday,” a statement on the election date reads.
Orthodox Christians, who follow the Julian calendar, also observe Easter around the same time this year.
For Christians, Easter is a time of reflection, worship, and family.