Letters from Alyssa: My Journey to Understanding Voting as a Mitzvah
During my sophomore year at the University of Southern California, I took a course focused on Jewish ethics and civic responsibility. While I grew up hearing about the importance of voting from my parents and grandparents, this was the first time I connected the dots between my Jewish identity and my role as a citizen.
Our group discussions often centered around the concept of tikkun olam—repairing the world. We talked about how every action we take, no matter how small, can contribute to making the world a better place. One evening, our instructor asked us, “How does voting fit into tikkun olam?”
Initially, I was stumped. Sure, voting was important, but was it really as instrumental in improving the world as direct community service or charitable giving? As we delved deeper into Jewish texts and their modern interpretations, I began to see voting in a new light.
We learned about the Talmudic principle of “dina d’malchuta, dina” – the law of the land is binding. In a democracy, we have the unique opportunity to participate in creating these laws. By voting, we’re not just following the law, but actively shaping it to reflect our values.
The Torah commands us: Justice, justice shall you pursue (Deuteronomy 16:20). Our instructor challenged us to think about how voting allows us to pursue justice on a larger scale than we could as individuals.
As the election season approached, coupled with my new understanding, I got involved with voter registration drive initiatives. I was surprised by how many of my fellow students weren’t registered to vote or didn’t think their vote mattered.
I found myself sharing what I’d learned in the course. “In Jewish tradition, every single action matters,” I explained to them, “The Talmud teaches that saving one life is like saving an entire world. Your one vote might seem small, but it has the power to make a real difference.”
The more I talked about voting as a Jewish value, the more I internalized it myself. I realized that by participating in elections, I am honoring the generations before me who didn’t have this right.
As I cast my ballot this November, I will do so with a sense of pride and connection to my Jewish identity. Voting isn’t just about fulfilling a civic duty – it is about living out our Jewish values in a tangible way.
To my fellow Jewish students,: Your vote is more than just a choice on a ballot. It’s a way to pursue justice, to take responsibility for your community, and to work toward tikkun olam. It’s a mitzvah – a sacred obligation and opportunity.
So when Election Day comes, embrace this mitzvah. Head to the polls, cast your ballot, and know that you’re participating in a deeply Jewish act. Your voice matters – let it be heard!
Take good care,
Alyssa
Alyssa Wallack is a USC senior from Los Angeles. A passionate advocate for Jewish and Israel-related causes, she’s now interning with Hillel International. When not immersed in her studies or various fellowships, Alyssa loves exploring LA’s food scene and connecting with fellow students about all things Jewish.
Letters from Alyssa is a series of reflections and advice from Alyssa Wallack, a senior at USC and a Hillel International Intern.
Learn more about MitzVote, Hillel International’s nonpartisan civic engagement initiative.