As members of the Professional Institute of the Public Service of Canada, you serve at the intersection of policy and people. This toolkit provides everything you need to know about exercising your democratic rights while making a difference for the public service.
Your rights as a federal employee: separating myth from reality
MYTH:
As a Federal employee, I must remain completely non-partisan during elections. Participating in political activities or union campaigns risks my career and could lead to reprimands.
REALITY:
Nearly all federal employees have the same democratic rights as any Canadian citizen. In a landmark 1991 case, PIPSC secured a Supreme Court of Canada ruling that established these protections, confirming that restrictions on political participation violated the Charter of Rights and Freedoms' guarantees of freedom of association and expression.
As a federal employee, you can:
- display election signs at your home
- speak publicly on election issues
- support political parties or candidates at public meetings
- write to newspapers endorsing candidates or parties
- canvas door-to-door for candidates
- volunteer in campaign offices
- assist parties or candidates on election day
- contribute funds to candidates or political parties
Important boundaries to respect:
- no political activities in your workplace
- no use of employer's electronic devices for political communications
- no public criticism of your specific department or agency
- no activities that conflict with your professional responsibilities
Download your Federal Election factsheet
Engage with Election Candidates
Understanding where candidates stand on critical issues affecting public services is essential for making an informed choice. Your vote will shape Canada's next four years, and we need leadership that values both the Canadian public and those who serve them.
As a federal employee, you bring unique insights to these conversations. In these challenging times, your perspective can meaningfully influence the election outcome – we encourage you to use this power thoughtfully.
Making your voice heard at candidate meetings:
- participate actively in in-person or virtual all-candidate forums
- line up at the microphone or raise your virtual hand to ensure you're called upon
- introduce yourself as a local resident, federal employee, and PIPSC member
- keep questions focused and ask all candidates to respond
- remember: questioning candidates is your democratic right – embrace it!
For sample questions on PIPSC's top election issues, download our top issue guides below.
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Did you know? Chance encounters with candidates at community events or when they canvass your neighbourhood provide perfect opportunities to engage them on issues that matter to you.
Email bettertogether@pipsc.ca to share your story about how you made your voice heard!