Pride Hamilton Statement: Upcoming Municipal Elections - October 26 2026
As Hamilton approaches the upcoming municipal election on October 26 2026, Pride Hamilton is sharing an official statement regarding civic engagement, safety, and democratic accountability. We encourage all community members, candidates, and allies to read our message below and make a plan to participate in shaping the future of our city.
To the Community
We are writing this statement in hopes of reaching as many community members as possible. Hamilton is in an election season with numerous candidates stepping forward to serve our city. At a time when our community faces pressing challenges - - including housing shortages, homelessness, affordability, stretched resources, and high rates of reported hate crimes - - informed civic engagement is more important than ever.
Addressing Hate and Protecting Community Safety
Leading up to and following our annual event, our organization, artists, guests, and candidates (both within the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and allies) have experienced targeted online intimidation, violent threats, and transphobic, misogynistic, homophobic, and racist harassment. Hate has taken up far too much space in this city, and it must stop.
Accessibility, Transparency, and Democratic Process
With one mayoral seat and candidates running across all fifteen wards, voters deserve clear opportunities to hear directly from those seeking office. Public forums, town halls, and debates must be held in spaces that are accessible to all constituents. While organizing events with multiple candidates presents real logistical challenges, a clear, equitable, and transparent process should be standard practice across all levels of government and community organizing.
Respectful public dialogue allows voters to learn where candidates stand on policy, duty, safety, and accountability. Democracy functions best when community members can make informed decisions.
Make Your Voice Heard
Are you registered to vote?
Do you have a plan to vote?
Hamilton needs leadership that believes in our city, supports every resident, and respects all community members. If you have not registered, please exercise your right to vote. Visit RegisterToVoteON.ca (managed in partnership with Elections Ontario) to confirm if you are on the voters list, update your information, or add yourself.
Remember to bring one piece of ID showing both your name and Hamilton home address (e.g., driver's license, utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or official government document). Photo ID is not required.
For the 2026 Municipal Election, eligible voters can vote at any polling station within their assigned Ward. Enter your address into the City of Hamilton Interactive Polling Location Finder to locate all polling stations and advance voting locations in your ward. Advance Polling dates include: October 3 & 4, 10 & 11, and 17 & 18 2026, all from 10am – 6pm. On Election Day (October 26 2026), voting locations across all 15 wards will be open for standard polling hours; check out the City of Hamilton’s Official City Election website for more information.
