In a time when elections are often associated with division, competition and partisanship, some readers may find it meaningful to learn about a very different electoral model practiced quietly around the world by the Bahá’í community for more than 150 years.

Bahá’í elections are founded on a simple but profound principle: Leadership is understood as a responsibility of service, not a pursuit of power. Rather than individuals seeking office, Bahá’ís elect consultative bodies — known as Spiritual Assemblies — whose members serve the spiritual, social and administrative needs of the community.

Those elected hold no special status or personal authority. They are regarded as trustees, entrusted with contributing to the welfare and unity of the whole community. There are no nominations, campaigns, speeches or endorsements, arising from the understanding that competition for position can sometimes encourage pride, rivalry or unnecessary division.

Instead, each voter reflects privately and prayerfully on individuals who demonstrate qualities such as integrity, humility, maturity, wisdom and a spirit of service.

Voting is conducted by secret ballot in a respectful and reverent atmosphere. Each person independently writes the names of those they feel are best able to serve. Those receiving the greatest number of votes are elected, and all members share equal responsibility.

After elections, decisions are made through consultation — a process characterized by thoughtful expression, attentive listening and a sincere search for truth. Once a decision is reached, unity is maintained even among those who may initially have held differing perspectives.

This same pattern of election operates at local, national and international levels of the Bahá’í community. Local Spiritual Assemblies are elected annually by members aged 18 and older. Delegates from communities across Alaska gathered in Anchorage April 24-26 to elect the National Spiritual Assembly of Alaska for the coming year of service.
The local Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Wrangell was first formed in 1971. This year’s election was held on April 21.

At a time when many are reflecting on the nature of leadership and the importance of unity, the Bahá’í electoral process is offered simply as a humble contribution to conversations about how communities might cultivate trust, dignity and cooperation.

Wrangell Bahá’ís community