Trust in democratic institutions is being challenged in Canada and around the world. While many Canadians still believe in democratic values, more people are worried about political divisions, lower trust in governments and public institutions, false information, and whether political systems are meeting people's needs.
Using the latest public opinion polls, election research, and public engagement data, this panel will explore how Canadians feel about democracy today. Are concerns about democracy shared by many Canadians, or are they more common in certain groups? What is causing changes in political trust and participation? And what can governments, community organizations, educators, and local communities do to help strengthen democracy and encourage people to get involved in the future?
Featuring
Andrew Parkin , Executive Director, Environics Institute
Sarah Morra, Chair, Vote 16 Canada and Research Assistant, The Samara Centre for Democracy
Joanna Massie, Postdoctoral Fellow in Political Science, McMaster University
Moderator: Shawn Micallef , Toronto Star columnist & University of Toronto civics instructor
Toronto's municipal election takes place on October 26, 2026. Check out the KnowYourVote.TO website and the Celebrate Democracy page to learn more about the upcoming election, access important voter resources, and discover activities and interactive library programs for all ages happening at a branch near you.
This initiative is made possible by donations to the Toronto Public Library Foundation and is generously supported by the McConnell Foundation.
Information Collection Notice: The personal information on this form is collected by the Toronto Public Library under the Public Libraries Act, sections 20(a), 20(c), and 20(d). The information will only be used for event and program registration, delivery and evaluation. Questions about how the library handles your information can be directed to Answerline staff at answerline@tpl.ca , 416-397-5981, 789 Yonge Street, Toronto ON M4W 2G8.
For: Adults (18+), Older Adults, Younger Adults (18-24). Programme type: Civic & Community Engagement. Series: Celebrate Democracy. Location in branch: Concourse Event Space. Registration is required. Limited to 200 participants.
Wednesday, October 14
6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
North York Central Library · 5120 Yonge Street
Venue details →