Today is the International Day of Democracy, first inaugurated in 2007 by the United Nations to honor democracies worldwide. Though the first observance encouraged celebrations of democratic institutions, the day has since become an opportunity to promote—rather than celebrate—democratic principles.
Promoting democracy, however, is not just a world value, but also a Jewish one. As the prophet Jeremiah wrote during the exile to Babylonia, we are to engage deeply in the communities where we find ourselves, to build houses and put down roots, and to “seek the welfare of the city to which I have exiled you and pray to God in its behalf; for in its prosperity, you shall prosper” (Jeremiah 29: 4-7). In no country has this prophecy borne more fruit than in the United States of America, whose democratic principles—though far from perfect—provided a safe space for Judaism and the Jewish community to grow, thrive, and strive to improve life for all American citizens.
Since it arrives nearly two months before election day in the United States, the International Day of Democracy serves as an opportune reminder to register to vote, check your voter registration status, or re-register with a new address if you’ve moved in the past year. Los Angeles voters may visit https://www.lavote.gov/ to fulfill any of these voting requirements. For those who live outside Los Angeles, we encourage you to visit your state or local election office’s website for the most up-to-date guidance. You can also learn more at https://www.usa.gov/register-to-vote. Don’t forget that teens applying for a driver’s license or California ID card may preregister to vote beginning at age sixteen at https://registertovote.ca.gov.
However, there are many additional ways to promote democracy in the United States. All California residents are eligible to serve as poll workers, or nonpartisan Election protection volunteers, but advance registration is required. In addition, you can join efforts alongside other Wise members to help voters register with postcarding campaigns and more.
—Rabbi Josh Knobel