200 residents practice casting ballots at mock polling station
Perach Israel staff guide adults with disabilities through the voting process ahead of Tuesday's Knesset election.
By Marisol Vega ·
More than 200 adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a Perach Israel rehabilitation village are rehearsing their votes before the national election. The group will cast real ballots at official polling stations on Tuesday, October 27. Staff members have set up a temporary mock polling station inside the village to help residents understand the mechanics of the process.
The setup includes a standard voting booth, envelopes, and ballot slips. Employees guide each resident step by step. They explain the legal right to vote and assist participants in selecting a candidate and sealing the ballot. This mirrors the actions required at a physical voting site. The initiative allows residents to complete the task in a familiar setting without the pressure of a public venue.
Moshe Stein, CEO of Perach Israel, stated that making independent choices is a core part of daily life at the facility. He noted that residents practice decision-making in other areas, such as selecting clothing and scheduling free time. Stein said this autonomy plays a key role in their quality of life. The voting exercise extends this principle to civic participation.
The village serves a population of over 200 adults. These residents are eligible to vote in the upcoming Knesset election. The practice sessions are designed to reduce uncertainty on Election Day. By handling the physical objects of the ballot, residents gain confidence in their ability to participate in the democratic process. This preparation aligns with the broader effort to ensure eligible citizens can exercise their rights.
Millions of Israelis will vote on Tuesday to select their next representatives in the Knesset. The Perach Israel residents will join this nationwide turnout. The mock station serves as a final rehearsal for the group. No new rules apply to these voters beyond standard electoral laws. The event is part of a targeted program to support residents with disabilities in this specific civic duty.
Source: The Jerusalem Post
