Arkells’ tweet prompts outpouring of positivity

Hamilton | Ontario | Latest News |

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Published October 15, 2019 at 11:04 pm

Just in time for Hamiltonians to head to the polls next week, a few feel-good stories are popping up about the support first-time voters are getting after they cast their first ballot.

Just in time for Hamiltonians to head to the polls next week, a few feel-good stories are popping up about the support first-time voters are getting after they cast their first ballot.

Hamilton’s band, The Arkells, tweeted about an experience at a downtown Hamilton polling station that cheered on a new Canadian as he cast his first vote in Canada.

The tweet, which was also shared to the band’s Facebook page, describes a middle-aged man in ‘traditional Islamic attire’ being applauded by volunteers and fellow citizens after putting his ballot in the box.

Since The Arkells tweeted the heartwarming story on Monday, it’s attracted plenty of attention and has prompted many others across various social media platforms to share their stories about voting.

“Same happened for a young woman when I was there,” said one Hamilton twitter user. “My 6 year old daughter got to witness the moment, cheered along, and is super pumped to vote in 12 years!”

Another said: “Same thing happened when our 18 yr old son voted yesterday. Best moment ever!”

For some, the story lifted their spirits at a time when tensions over racism and intolerance in Hamilton are at an all-time high.

“With all the hate coming from the Hammer, this gives me hope,” wrote one Twitter user.

“This is Canada! We are a peace loving, proudly diverse, respectful country,” another wrote.

Advance polling was held over the long weekend. Canadians will head to the polls next Monday (Oct. 21) to cast their ballot in the 2019 Federal Election.

To find out more about where to vote and this year’s election and to register, visit Elections Canada’s website.

Photo courtesy The Arkells Facebook page

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