Rabbi Leo Dee Urges Israelis to Act as Citizens, Not Just Voters

Rabbi Leo Dee, an educator living in Efrat, distinguishes between being a "voter" and an "active citizen," urging Israelis to go beyond merely casting ballots. He explains that while voting is essential in democracy, true civic responsibility involves each individual choosing a problem to address and contributing to its solution, thereby bringing light to society. Dee draws on Hebrew etymology, noting that the word "citizen" (azrach) is related to "dawn," symbolizing active illumination, whereas "voter" (matzbi'a) simply means pointing a finger, highlighting two different approaches to engagement with the state.

Reflecting on the events of October 7 and 8, 2023, Dee emphasizes how the Israeli public did not wait passively for institutions to act after the Hamas attack but instead mobilized spontaneously to support soldiers, displaced people, and communities. This grassroots response, he argues, exemplifies the power of citizens who shine their own light rather than relying solely on elected officials. He recalls that Israel’s founding was driven by proactive individuals who built infrastructure and institutions before the state existed.

Dee warns that election campaigns can foster a mindset of passivity, where people expect politicians to solve problems while they merely debate and point fingers. Instead, he calls on every Israeli to dedicate time monthly to improving an issue they care about, such as education, poverty, lone soldiers, seniors, road safety, or community cohesion. By doing so, millions of small efforts can collectively brighten the nation.

He concludes by urging Israelis to vote responsibly but to remember that elections mark the beginning, not the end, of democratic participation. "Let us be citizens who shine, not just voters," he says, encouraging a shift from passive expectation to active contribution. Rabbi Dee’s personal tragedy, losing his wife Lucy and daughters Maya and Rina in a terrorist attack during Passover 2023, underscores the urgency of his message. His recent books include "Seven Faces of Healing" and "The Business Case for Israel."