Welcome to Grits Abroad

Grits Abroad is a platform for Canadians living abroad who share the values of the Liberal Party of Canada like integrity, dignity, compassion, responsibility, and reason.  We believe these Liberal Party of Canada values contribute to why Canada is viewed as the most positive leader on the world stage. 

You don't have to be a LPC member to join Grits Abroad. United together, we can use our global experience from anywhere on the planet towards a better Canada and a better world. Join us!

Key Issues

Grits Abroad focuses on many key issues starting with the need to rapidly increase voter turnout among overseas Canadians at the 2025 federal election.

However, out of about 4 million Canadian non-residents, ONLY 27,000 NON-RESIDENT CANADIANS VOTED IN THE 2021 FEDERAL ELECTION. That is a voter turnout rate of just under 0.94%. Interestingly, there are also just over 4 million American non-resident voters but almost 230,000 of these voted in the 2020 election for a turnout rate of almost 8%. Overseas Americans outvote Canadians by an 8 to 1 margin! This is a problem we want to help solve!

 

Voting 

Courtesy Elections Canada

With less than 1% of overseas Canadians voting in the last federal election, voting from abroad can feel like an exercise in voter suppression. It doesn't have to be this difficult. 

Taxation

Some Canadians abroad pay tax in Canada AND in their country of residence. Unfair taxation practices need fixing.

Immigration

Some overseas Canadians experience unfair immigration and citizenship rules that discriminate against their children, spouses, and partners. 

Pension

Canadians should not face undue hardships simply for retiring outside of Canada. 

Security

Members of vulnerable groups must experience a sense of safety and belonging when returning to Canada. This is not always the case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Voting from abroad? Register EARLY!

Voting from abroad takes far more time and effort than should be necessary.  Improving this is a key issue for Grits Abroad.  Until then, plan as early as possible to register your vote! You may need to apply 8-10 weeks before the election date to have your ballot arrive safely on time.  Since the next federal election might only be 36 days long, registering your right to vote early is imperative. Do not wait until the next election is called to register.  Register your vote now with Elections Canada.

Why should I join Grits Abroad?

Canadians living abroad possess unique perspectives shaped by diverse professional and life experiences worldwide. They have witnessed firsthand the strengths and disadvantages of various national systems, and this invaluable insight can help enrich Canada's future. If this describes you, share your experiences and ideas and play a vital role in helping strengthen our proud nation. Your voice matters, and so do your contributions. We are a safe, inclusive group that welcomes people with diverse backgrounds. If that aligns with your mindset, then you belong with us.

Join Grits Abroad. Member benefits include opportunities to:

  1. Strengthen the voice of an important but neglected constituency of voting Canadians.
  2. Use our voice to influence decision-makers within the Liberal Party of Canada and the government of Canada.
  3. Network with other like-minded Canadians with similar international and professional experiences.

We hold regular virtual meetings to discuss key issues, plan events, coordinate our efforts, and meet special guests. Details of upcoming meetings, including dates, times, and agendas, will be shared with members. 

You don't have to be a Liberal Party of Canada member to join Grits Abroad. Membership is free. United together, we can use our global experience from anywhere on the planet towards a better Canada and a better world. 

Join Grits Abroad!

Can I volunteer at Grits Abroad?

Yes! Join our team of dedicated volunteers to help manage our online presence, grow our membership, develop communications, and organise events. Your skills, experience, and enthusiasm can make a significant impact. Share your volunteer availability, skills, and interests in our membership form.

Can I support Grits Abroad financially?

Yes. Your financial contributions enable us to maintain and develop our online presence while supporting administrative costs. Every donation, big or small, helps us achieve our goals. We will soon share a link to make a financial contribution.

Why the name 'Grits Abroad'?

Why "Grit"?

The term Grit has a long history as a nickname for members of the Liberal Party of Canada. It symbolizes firmness of character derived from its association with "true grit"—meaning determination and strength. This nickname dates back to 1849, when progressive reformers in Upper Canada were called Clear Grits, representing their purity of purpose: "all sand and no dirt, clear grit all the way through." These reformers helped lay the foundation for the Canada that we know today. (Canadian Encyclopedia)

Why "Abroad"?

The word Abroad captures the essence of our community: Canadians living and thriving across the globe. Millions of Canadians have made their homes outside of the country for work, education, or personal adventures. By choosing "Abroad," we emphasize the unique perspective and contributions of these Canadians, who bring their global experiences back to strengthen and support the values of the Liberal Party of Canada.

Together, Grits Abroad represents a proud community of Canadians living worldwide committed to making a positive impact, both at home and abroad.

“I have found a supportive community at Grits Abroad that shares my political beliefs and values. It's great to connect with like-minded Canadians living around the world.”

Founding Member of Grits Abroad

About Us

The Supreme Court of Canada confirmed in 2019 the right of all eligible Canadian citizens to vote in federal elections regardless of their residency status.  About 4 million Canadians live outside Canada, making our voting constituency larger than any other within Canada.  If we were a province, our population would be the fifth largest in Canada.  

 

Grits Abroad aims to foster a global community that promotes values such as integrity, dignity, compassion, responsibility, and reason where ever we live.  We believe these Liberal Party of Canada values contribute to why Canada is viewed as the most positive leader on the world stage. 

 

Organised together, we can work towards a better Canada

from anywhere on the planet.

Contact us